A very busy and successful executive in the insurance business, Walter Farnam retired approximately three years ago. With his many years of expertise in the insurance field and a good deal of energy to spare, Farnam wanted to utilize his talents to benefit the community.

Farnam soon joined the Executive Service Corps, a volunteer group that provides consulting services in the areas of strategic planning and organizational management, for not-for-profit organizations. He found the experience to be very rewarding.

When the chairman of the Crozer-Keystone Health System Board approached Farnam about serving on the board, he did not hesitate to say yes. He already knew the health system had a positive reputation within the county and was anxious to be part of an organization that was serving the health care needs of the families in Delaware County. 

After joining the board, Farnam became even more impressed with Crozer-Keystone. From a businessperson’s perspective, he found the organization to be well-managed with strong and steady programs and a board that was truly committed to its mission. As his involvement with Crozer-Keystone grew, so did his commitment. Today, he serves as chairman of the CKHS Board.

When the board decided to embark on a major construction project to build a new Emergency Department at Crozer-Chester Medical Center, Farnam was one of the first board members to make a financial commitment to the project. 

When asked why he was willing to make a major leadership gift in support of the project, Farnam says, “I believe people in leadership positions should lead by example.” 

He also believes that continuous improvement of the medical center’s facilities and staying ahead of the game in terms of medical technology are extremely important to the health system’s long-term growth.

Farnam is hopeful that his leadership gift will inspire others to follow his example of giving something back to the community.