Hospital president leaving Ascension Via Christi Manhattan

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The president of Ascension Via Christi Manhattan announced Thursday he is leaving the hospital effective this week.

Robert Copple, who has led the hospital since 2016, said in a statement to staff that he and his wife, Kim, will remain in the community.

"I am thankful for the opportunity to work with the staff of Ascension Via Christi and being a part of providing much-needed healthcare services in our community," Copple said.

Under Copple's leadership, the hospital achieved a consistent Leapfrog A rating for patient safety and earned CMS 4 Star recognition for patient safety, patient experience and outpatient surgery. The facility also received U.S. News & World Report Maternity Care recognition over the past four years.

Copple credited board members, physicians and staff for the hospital's improved performance ratings.

The hospital has not announced Copple's successor.