Independence Health System Announces Leadership Transitions at Butler Memorial and Clarion Hospital

Butler, Pa., March 26, 2025 — Independence Health System announces the upcoming retirement of Karen Allen, President of Butler Memorial and Clarion Hospitals. After years of dedicated leadership and service as a front-line nurse, a chief nursing officer and now hospital administrator, Allen has shared her intent to retire in the coming months. Allen has played a pivotal role in advancing patient care, strengthening hospital operations, and fostering a culture of excellence across Butler Memorial and Clarion Hospitals. 

“A trusted and long-time colleague, Karen’s leadership has been defined by her unwavering and extraordinary commitment to our patients, employees and communities,” said Ken DeFurio, President & CEO of Independence Health System. “Her forthright ability to guide with compassion, vision and integrity and has left an indelible mark on our organization.” 

In alignment with the system’s commitment to strong internal succession, Matt Schnur has been appointed as the next President of Butler Memorial and Clarion Hospitals. A native of Butler, Matt joined Butler Health System 14 years ago, beginning as a staff pharmacist, advancing through clinical pharmacy to Director of Pharmacy, and most recently serving as Vice President of Ancillary Services. Matt holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Duquesne University and completed a postgraduate residency at Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, VA. Matt has participated in leadership and development programs, and he has held several teaching and governance roles in other organizations. 

To ensure a seamless transition, Allen and Schnur will serve as co-presidents over the next several months. They will work closely together and, when they determine the transition is complete, Schnur will assume full responsibility for the position. 

In addition, Michael Sekhon is being promoted to an expanded role for all of Independence Health, as System Vice President of Ancillary Services. He holds a Doctor of Pharmacy Degree, worked at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh for more than nine years, and joined Excela Health seven years ago. Mike will have system-wide responsibilities for the pharmacy, laboratory, and radiology service lines. 

“We are fortunate to have such talented leaders within our organization,” Ken DeFurio added. “Please join me in thanking Karen for her incredible service and dedication and in congratulating Matt and Mike as they step into their new roles and play key roles in our continued progress.” 

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About Independence Health System: 

Nationally recognized for quality care, Independence Health System comprises Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe, and Westmoreland Hospitals with a combined bed count of 925. With more than 1,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and 7,300 employees, the System is the third largest in western Pennsylvania serving a population base of 750,000 in a footprint spanning more than ten counties.  

The System includes tertiary programs rated among America’s best for cardiac care and surgery, earning accolades from a number of prestigious outlets and organizations. Locally owned and locally controlled, Independence Health System offers its patients low-cost, high-quality care across the care spectrum in such specialties as cardiology, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, women’s health and obstetrics, emergency medicine, behavioral health, and primary care. Its network of outpatient centers sees more than 1.2 million visits annually. The homecare division further supports patients at all stages of life with home health and hospice services. Learn more at www.independence.health