Local Ties, International Expertise
New trustee Mark Bye brings unique perspectives to the Lehigh Valley Health Network board
Room to grow
Mark Bye joins a board of trustees that’s overseeing LVHHN’s tremendous growth. “The trustees on the board are open, honest and truly interested in making the hospital better,” he says. “It’s a privilege to join such a team.”
He’s helped mold Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., into a worldwide leader, working in the United Kingdom, Holland and Singapore. Now, Mark Bye is home in Allentown, and he’s using his experience to help create a healthier Lehigh Valley.
The newest member of the Lehigh Valley Health Network board of trustees, Bye has considerable experience in health care business and managing Air Products’ worldwide growth. As a result, he’s well-suited to help guide LVHHN’s future.
“Many organizations suffer from growing too fast and therefore don’t have the future they envision,” Bye says. “LVHHN has a wise track record of investing in growth that gives our community the highest quality services, and I look forward to helping continue that tradition.”
Born in Mt. Vernon (a suburb of New York City), Bye relocated here when he started at Air Products 22 years ago and has always maintained ties to the community, even while working overseas. His sons, Cameron and Colin, were born at LVHHN. (Daughter Vanessa was born in Singapore.)
Currently vice president for Air Products’ gases and equipment group, Bye oversees a $6 billion division with a strong healthcare tie. They produce and provide helium to operate half of the world’s MRI machines, and also provide oxygen to help patients breathe easier. The company also operates a global home care business that includes Young’s Medical Equipment, a provider of products like wheelchairs and walkers.
Bye’s involvement in the board furthers the legacy of Leonard Parker Pool, the founder of Air Products and the driving force behind what today is LVH–Cedar Crest. Together, the two organizations form a longtime partnership for the betterment of the community. “Mr. Pool always encouraged the people at Air Products to support the hospital in many ways, including board membership,” Bye says. “It’s a legacy we’re proud to continue.”
The 20-person board of trustees provides oversight of hospital management. It approves yearly operating and capital budgets, critically and carefully reviews growth projects, and selects and evaluates President and CEO Elliot J. Sussman, M.D., who in turn serves as a trustee.
Above all, the board helps ensure the hospital fulfills its mission to heal, comfort and care for our community. This year, we invested $84.1 million in community service, including uncompensated care for those unable to pay for needed services, and clinics and other programs for people with limited income.
Learn more about our community service. Get your copy of the 2005 Report to the Community or the Community Annual Meeting by calling 610-402-CARE.
This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM
