The Dempsey Center has appointed Brandon Hotham to be the organization’s permanent CEO after serving as the interim since February.

“I couldn’t be more pleased to see Brandon step into this role permanently,” founder and actor Patrick Dempsey said in a news release Monday. “… The heart, expertise and vision he brings will ensure that the Dempsey Center continues to grow while staying true to its purpose of making life better for people impacted by cancer.”

The Dempsey Center provides wellness services at no cost to people with cancer or impacted by cancer. Those services include counseling, nutrition education, support groups, fitness classes, and more. It also hosts the annual Dempsey Challenge, a biking event to raise money for the organization.

The Dempsey Center recently moved to a new home at Central Maine Healthcare’s Cancer Center at 17 High St. in Lewiston.

Former CEO Cara Valentino left for personal reasons at the beginning of the year, according to spokesperson Katelynn Davis. She had been with the Dempsey Center for a little more than three years.

Hotham, a lifelong Mainer from Lewiston, holds a master’s degree in public health, according to the news release. The Dempsey Center first hired him to be the director of client experience in 2002, and promoted him to chief experience officer before naming him interim CEO.

“I am honored to be entrusted with this role,” Hotham said in the release. “Every day, I see the profound difference the Dempsey Center makes in the lives of people impacted by cancer. I look forward to working alongside our incredible team, volunteers, and philanthropic supporters to expand our reach and ensure compassionate, high-quality services remain accessible to all who need them. This work is personal to me, and I’m grateful to serve this organization.”

He has previously worked for Maine Health Management Coalition, Martin’s Point Health Care, Central Maine Healthcare, along with many others, according to the release.

“Brandon has demonstrated extraordinary leadership during his time as interim president and CEO,” Ann Drew, chair of the Dempsey Center board of directors, said in the news release. “His vision, deep knowledge of health care and public health, and ability to engage staff, donors, and community partners have positioned the center for continued growth and impact.”