Nancee Long, director of marketing and public relations at Grays Harbor Community Hospital, is leaving for a similar position at a hospital in Astoria, Oregon.

“Each one of us has potential for professional and personal growth and this organization has made it possible for me to move to new challenges,” she told The Daily World on Friday. “I am both regretful and excited to announce that I have accepted a position as the Director of Communications at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Astoria, Oregon, beginning Sept. 9, 2019.”

Long began her job planning, developing and implementing the hospital’s marketing strategies, internal and external communications and public relations activities in August of 2016. She said her time at Grays Harbor Community Hospital has prepared her well for this new chapter in her career.

“I have been fortunate to learn from some of the most dedicated people at every level of this organization who work tirelessly in an almost impossible environment because they believe that everyone deserves excellent health care,” said Long. “I have tried to be as open and responsive to our patients and community as time would allow. I have done my best to represent the hospital and its associated clinics in the way in which they deserve, and I am very proud of the work we have all accomplished over the past three years.

While this new career opportunity will take her out of the state, she said she will continue to be a presence in the county.

“I will continue to be a neighbor and am excited to come back and visit my favorite restaurants, the beautiful farmers market and yearly health fair to support my friends and this community as it moves toward a brighter future,” said Long. “Please support your local hospital. Please be kind in your words and actions to the people who work day in and day out to keep you healthy. They appreciate it more than you can ever know.”