Tenna Wiles Retires after 22 Years in Position
Palm Beach County Medical Society (PBCMS) President Larry M. Bush, MD, announced today the appointment of Kelly Skidmore as the new CEO of the Society as well as its charitable arm, Palm Beach County Medical Society Services. Skidmore, who was recently elected to the Florida House of Representatives, District 81, also served as public relations specialist for the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) since 2016. She replaces Tenna Wiles, who is retiring after 22 years at the organization.Skidmore has been involved with PBCMS for the past two years as a member of the Services Board of Directors. According to Dr. Bush, the Society’s board unanimously chose Skidmore following an exhaustive national talent search.
“Kelly brings to our organization a wealth of community experience, a deep understanding of the health care issues and needs in our area, and a passion for continuing to strengthen the mission of PBCMS,” he said. “We will miss the outstanding leadership and contributions of Tenna Wiles, but know she is passing the baton to a new leader who will continue her legacy.”
“Having admired the incredible work of the Palm Beach County Medical Society for years, I am honored to become a part of the dynamic team of professionals who dedicate themselves to improving health care in our community every day,” Skidmore said. “I am looking forward to upholding its many traditional events and successful programs while guiding it into the future to meet the ongoing needs of physicians and their patients.”
Early in her career, Skidmore spent 12 years working with the real estate development company, Arvida, before taking a job in the Florida Legislature. After 10 years as District Chief to Ron Klein, she ran for office and was elected as a State Representative in District 90. She served from 2006 to 2010, representing portions of Coconut Creek, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, and Delray Beach. She was on the leadership team of the minority caucus and served as ranking member on Health Care Policy and Health Care Appropriations subcommittees. During her two terms in the Florida House, Kelly was also the vice president of advocacy and public policy for the Arthritis Foundation Florida Chapter. She then worked as vice president of community relations in the corporate office of UnitedHealthcare Florida Plan before joining MIASF.
After earning an associate degree from Palm Beach State College, she received a certificate of completion in hospitality administration/management from Florida Atlantic University’s College of Business.
Her extensive community involvement includes serving as acting director for the Marine Research Hub of South Florida, Inc. since 2018, and as a member of the board of directors for Ocean Exchange.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Skidmore has lived in South Florida since 1972 and is a graduate of Deerfield Beach High School. She and her husband, Ray, have lived in Boca Raton since 1984. Their daughter, Mary Alice, who lives and works in Brooklyn, New York.
“Knowing someone like Kelly is taking over the helm at PBCMS makes saying goodbye a little easier,” said Wiles. “She will be an outstanding leader, especially with the support of the organization’s dedicated staff, membership and partners. I wish Kelly many years of success!”
