Remembering David Crandall
May 2, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of former-president, healthcare visionary, and compassionate leader, David Crandall.
David served as co-president with Dr. John Votto from 1997 – 2012. He began his 27-year-long career at Hospital for Special Care as the Quality Assurance Manager in 1985. According to the HFSC publication, Coyle’s Folly, “Crandall’s assignment was to facilitate the development and growth of the quality assurance program and oversee adherence to state directives.” He said that within a year he saw growth and development, and is quoted to have said, “It was amazing, like watching a caterpillar turn into a butterfly,” in the HFSC publication. He then was the Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer before being appointed as co-president and CEO with Dr. John Votto in 1997.
David left an incredible mark on HFSC, with his dedication to growing and expanding care and services for our patients and our community. Through his leadership HFSC:
- Built the Therapeutic Recreation Greenhouse.
- Formalized Spinal cord injury and wound management programs.
- Established the research department.
- Opened the Aquatic & Fitness Center in 1999.
- Established the Joy of Art program.
- Manes & Motions became affiliated with HFSC.
- Established a nursing scholarship.
- Opened 28-bed Hartford Satellite location in 2004.
- Opened the outpatient Neuromuscular Center.
- Opened Neurobehavioral 2.
- Began the new Outpatient Center expansion.
- Opened the outpatient Autism Center in 2012.
- …and much more.
David was a remarkable individual and will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. To view his obituary, click the link below.