Mercy names new president to lead Southeast Missouri hospitals and clinics

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) – Mercy has named Amanda “Mandy” Shelast as the new president of Mercy Southeast Communities following a nationwide search.

Shelast will oversee Mercy Hospital Southeast along with Mercy clinics and services throughout southeast Missouri. She is scheduled to begin the role June 29.

According to Mercy, Shelast brings more than 16 years of healthcare leadership experience, including work focused on improving patient access, supporting physicians and expanding rural health care services.

Most recently, Shelast served as network president for Sanford Health after previously serving as president of the Michigan and South regions at Marshfield Clinic Health System. Mercy said she helped lead Marshfield Clinic Health System through its 2025 merger with Sanford Health.

“Mandy’s proven leadership in multifaceted health systems and true love for rural healthcare makes her an ideal fit for Southeast Missouri,” said David Argueta, Mercy senior vice president and president of community operations.

Shelast said she looks forward to continuing Mercy Southeast’s growth and strengthening health care services across the region.

Mercy said Shelast has led physician recruitment programs in rural areas and helped guide hospitals and health systems through operational turnarounds and expansion efforts.

Shelast earned a bachelor’s degree in community development and a master’s degree in health services administration from Central Michigan University.

In addition to Mercy Hospital Southeast, Shelast will oversee Mercy Hospital Stoddard and Mercy Hospital Perry, as well as Mercy clinics in Bernie, Bloomfield, Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Malden, New Madrid, Perryville, Poplar Bluff and Sikeston.

Shelast succeeds Eric Ammons, who recently retired after more than 30 years with Mercy.