Connecticut Children’s Shmerling to Retire

After leading the organization for a decade, James Shmerling plans to retire as president and CEO of Connecticut Children’s at the end of the year.

Shmerling and Connecticut Children’s made the announcement March 7.

“Jim’s leadership has positioned Connecticut Children’s as a national leader in pediatric healthcare,” said Connecticut Children’s board chair Jon Rubin.

Shmerling joined Connecticut Children’s in 2015.

Transformation

During his tenure, the organization has grown from a standalone medical center, to a pediatric health system across three states.

Connecticut Children’s has also expanded its NICU network, formed partnerships with adult health systems, launched groundbreaking initiatives in population health, and started new programs and services to increase access to specialized pediatric care.

“When I started, we needed to build scale to truly thrive, and together, we’ve done just that,” Shmerling said. 

“Jim has elevated Connecticut Children’s to a world class hospital.”

CBIA’s Chris DiPentima

“His vision, dedication, and strategic foresight have ensured that children and families across our region have access to the very best care,” said Rubin.

Connecticut Children’s is currently undergoing a major campus expansion including a new eight-story clinical tower.

“Jim has elevated Connecticut Children’s to a world class hospital,” said CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima.

“His leadership put Connecticut on the national map for pediatric care and a place that families know they’ll get great quality care and much more,” said CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima.

‘Bittersweet’

Shmerling spoke with the CBIA BizCast in 2022 about his 40-plus year career that included stops in Tennessee and Colorado, before finding a home in Connecticut.

“I love Connecticut, love the people here. I love Connecticut Children’s and what we’re doing for children,” he said.

The Connecticut Children’s Board of Directors will lead the search for Shmerling’s successor. 

“I know the children of the region now have access to the best pediatric experts in the nation.”

Connecticut Childrens’ James Shmerling

Shmerling will remain in the role through the end of the year to support the handover.

“Now is the right time to ensure a smooth transition for the organization’s future leadership,” Shmerling said. 

“This transition is bittersweet for me, but I know the children of the region now have access to the best pediatric experts in the nation.”