Two More UMMS Board Members Resign In Controversy Over Financial Dealings With Hospital System

Two more members of the University of Maryland Medical System board of directors have resigned, while four others who have financial relationships with the system have been asked to immediately take a voluntary leave of absence.

The news is part of the fallout of controversy over Mayor Catherine Pugh's since-disclosed book deal with the medical system. Pugh had sat on the board since 2001. She resigned that unpaid position on Monday, days after it came to light she and other board members benefited from contracts with the private health system.

"Addressing this issue is of the highest priority for me and the organization," board Chairman Stephen A. Burch said in a statement. "There is nothing more important than the trust of those who depend on our leadership."

John W. Dillon of Dullon Consulting and tech entrepreneur Robert L. Pevenstein have resigned from the board. Pevenstein also sits on the University System of Maryland Board of Regents. August. J. Chiasera, James A. Soltesz, Walter A. Tilley Jr. and former state Sen. Francis X. Kelly were asked to take a leave of absence.

"Let me be abundantly clear, this is not a reflection on any of the affected Board members or their businesses," Burch said. "Our Board members are incredibly talented professionals who bring invaluable expertise and perspective while advancing Maryland’s own world-class health care system."

Going forward, Burch said the board will review existing contracts and reform how it conducts business, with an eye toward transparency. He and UMMS CEO Robert Chrencik are set to meet Wednesday with Gov. Larry Hogan, House Speaker Michael Busch and Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller.

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