LAKEWOOD RANCH, Florida—Empath Health announced that its board of directors has elected Jan Miller as chair of the board of trustees. Miller succeeds Ben Hayes, who served as chair from 2023 to 2026 and will continue supporting Empath Health’s mission through his ongoing service to the organization.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as board chair at Empath Health," said Miller. "I believe deeply in this mission, and I’m committed to supporting the colleagues who deliver Full Life Care every day—so more families across Florida can feel seen, supported and truly cared for.”
“Jan leads with clarity, integrity and a deep respect for the people we serve,” said Jonathan D. Fleece, president and CEO of Empath Health. “Her steady leadership will support Empath’s continued expansion of Full Life Care across Florida, and we are grateful to Ben Hayes for the strong leadership he has provided as chair.”
Miller currently serves as senior executive vice president and trust officer at Caldwell Trust Company, where she has been a leader since joining the organization in 2001. As a member of Caldwell’s senior leadership team, Miller oversees the Client Services Division, which includes fiduciary services and marketing. She began her career in financial services at Winters Bank in Dayton, Ohio and later relocated to Sarasota to join the trust department of Southeast Bank.
“Jan understands what it means to steward trust, both professionally and personally,” said Deborah Johnson, chief philanthropy officer of Empath Health. “Her leadership will strengthen the partnerships and community support that make compassionate, mission-driven care possible for more families across our state.”
In addition to her election as chair of Empath Health’s board, she is also a founding board member of the Tidewell Foundation and a member of the Mote Marine Laboratory President’s Advisory Council.
“It has been an honor to serve as chair during a meaningful season of growth and momentum for Empath,” said Ben Hayes, outgoing chair of the board. “Jan is thoughtful, principled and deeply committed to the mission. Empath is in excellent hands with her leadership.”