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Photo by Eric Engman

Mary Johnson, the newly hired interim director for Hospice of the Tanana Valley, walks into a freshly decorated office in Hospice’s new home at 2001 Gillam Way, which opened two months ago.

The executive director’s chair was vacated last week by Ann Kjera who saw Hospice through a successful million dollar capital campaign and the building’s construction.

Johnson is not a newcomer to the non-profit agency. She has served as a patient care volunteer since 2005, and is excited about carrying on the agency’s programs until a permanent director is hired.

“I’m very impressed with the staff and the importance of the hospice mission,” Johnson said.

Johnson has a background in health care, administration, grant writing and marketing, both here and in Minnesota.

Alice Hansen, Hospice executive board president, said hiring Johnson will allow the board time to make a thorough search for a permanent

director.

“(Johnson) is a good fit for that interim process,” Hansen said.

JoAnne Wallis, executive board secretary, concurs.

“Of all the candidates, (Johnson) had the best qualifications. ... We wanted somebody to keep things running smoothly. We don’t want to rush into finding a new director.”

Hospice of the Tanana Valley will open its doors to the public from 3-7 p.m. on Friday in celebration of its new home and to honor and thank the many people communitywide who made Phase I of the hospice dream come true. A short introduction of honored guests will be held at 4:30 p.m.

The open house will also feature artist Hanna Esop as part of the monthly First Friday art openings around town, and include food and live music. Esop paints nature scenes in oils and watercolors.

Parking is available next door at the Carol Brice Center.