Local business leaders and health care industry executives today are remembering Our Lady of the Lake’s longtime CEO Robert Davidge Jr., who died Sunday after a battle with cancer.
“Bob was a giant,” says John Spain, executive vice president of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation. “He took over the Lake when it relocated to Essen Lane and expanded it into one of the largest health care operations in Louisiana, and in the Southeast. I’ll remember him for his kindness, and for working on behalf of all the people of Baton Rouge.”
Davidge spent 30 years at OLOL, and served as CEO from 1979 until his retirement in 2008. As a leader, he was known for maintaining high standards and expecting excellence from everyone in his organization, while also remaining humble and approachable. He was known for his sense of humor and for learning the names of all the hospital’s employees.
His successor, OLOL CEO Scott Wester, says Davidge led the hospital with a firm, even hand during critical, and often challenging, years of growth.
“Bob guided the growth of the medical center to become more than just a hospital,” Wester says. “Even if decisions weren’t popular, he put the needs of patients first. He also believed deeply in the goodness of our community, viewing our ministry as an incredible responsibility to serve everyone. He expected excellence and integrity always.”
Physicians who cut their teeth under Davidge’s leadership say he served as a mentor, who left a lasting impact on the Baton Rouge medical community.
“Bob recognized the value of a strong medical staff and developed incredible relationships with talented community physicians who make our ministry possible,” says Dr. Curtis Chastain, president of Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group.
“He always encouraged us to work harder and smarter for patients, and said that the long-term success of the Lake depended on its physicians. Many of us credit much of our careers to his counsel and support.”
—Stephanie Riegel
