Walter K. Graham, chief executive officer of United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and executive director both of UNOS and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), is retiring from UNOS effective December 17, after more than 25 years of service to the organization.
He will continue working with UNOS as an independent consultant. A Request for Proposal (RFP) for a new term of the OPTN contract is expected to be issued in the near future, and Mr. Graham will assist UNOS in developing its proposal.
“Working for UNOS for more than 25 years has been by far the most rewarding aspect of my career, and it has been a singular honor to work with each of you,” said Mr. Graham in announcing his retirement. “I want to thank you for your contributions to this wonderful organization that has served hundreds of thousands of people since its beginning and thank you for the privilege of laboring alongside you in this important cause. May God bless you in all that you do.”
Brian M. Shepard, UNOS’ chief operating officer, has been named as acting chief executive officer of UNOS and executive director. The UNOS Board of Directors, guided by its Corporate Advisory Committee, will direct a search for a permanent replacement.
We will provide more information about additional developments as they become known.
