Alumni Spotlight is pleased to announce The Top 100 Healthcare Executives of 2021. We recognize these extraordinary individuals for their positive impact on patients, communities, and their colleagues in the healthcare field. They are the cornerstone of patient care and operational excellence at each of the facilities and companies they lead. This year’s awardees guide medical centers and hospitals, health insurance groups, medical technology companies as well as other healthcare organizations and show their continuous dedication year after year. Their depth of knowledge, focus and collaboration has led to their career successes.

Kayode Williams, Chief Medical Officer of Johns Hopkins Medicine, leads their organization in medical superiority and world-class care. Maurie Markman, President of Medicine and Science at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, guides their teams into new territories with advancements in cancer care and treatment delivery. Monika Roots, Co-Founder, President and Chief Medical Officer of Bend Health, has dedicated herself to providing easy access to expert mental health treatment for individuals and families in 32 states. Not only do they commit their time and energy to the healthcare field, but their work also provides hope and healing to so many in need. Their leadership is a crucial piece to the healthcare field and provides a foundation for continuous improvement and progress for individuals across the country.

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Please join us in celebrating the achievements of the Top 100 Healthcare Executives of 2021.

 

1. Hemal Gada
UPMC Pinnacle, President of the Heart and Vascular Institute
University of Michigan

Hemal Gada began his professional career over 16 years ago. Today, he is the President of the Heart and Vascular Institute of UPMC Pinnacle. The largest non-governmental employer in Pennsylvania, UPMC integrates 92,000 employees, 40 hospitals and 700 doctors’ offices and outpatient sites. They are a nationally recognized leader in providing high-quality, patient-centered health care services in central Pennsylvania and surrounding rural communities.

Gada first got his start in 2005 as an internal medicine resident at Washington University School of Medicine. From there, he went on to Cleveland Clinic, before eventually becoming an assistant professor of medicine at Rutgers University, his most recent position prior to joining UPMC Pinnacle. Gada graduated from the University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business with an MBA and from the University of Michigan Medical School with an MD.

 

2. Valerie Leschber
Cone Health, Chief Medical Officer
Texas A&M University

Valerie Leschber is the Chief Medical Officer of Cone Health. She first joined the organization in 2003 as an internal medicine physician. Cone Health is a private, not-for-profit, healthcare delivery system based in Greensboro, North Carolina. As one of the region's largest and most comprehensive health networks, Cone Health has more than 100 locations, including five hospitals, three ambulatory care centers, three outpatient surgery centers, five urgent care centers, two retirement communities and more than 120 physician practices.

Prior to becoming CMO, Leschber was the chief medical information officer with Cone Health. In addition to her current role, she serves as the medical director of the Physician Assistant Program with Elon University. Leschber graduated from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston with an MD and from Texas A&M University with an undergraduate degree.

 

3. Laura Reed
Fairview Health Services, Chief Nurse Executive and President
University of Minnesota

Laura Reed began her professional career over 28 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Nurse Executive and President of Hospitals of Fairview Health Services. Fairview Health is the newly expanded academic health system that represents a collaboration among the University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota Physicians, and Fairview Health Services.

Reed first got her start in 1993 as a department personnel specialist for nursing at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. From there, she went on to Mercy Medical Center, before eventually rising to chief nurse executive and chief operating officer at ThedaCare, her most recent position prior to joining Fairview Health Services. Reed graduated from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with a doctorate in nursing and from the University of Iowa with an MBA and MSN.

 

4. Dexter Sereda
Memorial Healthcare System, Chief Medical Officer
University of Miami

Dexter Sereda is the Chief Medical Officer of Memorial Healthcare System. He first joined the health system in 2013 as the medical director of adult general surgery. Memorial is one of the largest public healthcare systems in the nation and highly regarded for its exceptional patient and family centered care. Memorial's patient, physician and employee satisfaction rates are some of the most admired in the country, and the system is recognized as a national leader in quality healthcare.

Earlier in his career Sereda worked with Private Surgical Practice as a general surgeon. Sereda earned an MBA in healthcare management from Florida International University - College of Business, an MD from the University of Miami - Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, and an undergraduate degree in chemistry from the University of Florida.

 

5. Wing Province
Intermountain Healthcare, Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director
Indiana University

Wing Province began his professional career over 21 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director of Park City Hospital of Intermountain Healthcare. Intermountain Healthcare is a not-for-profit system of hospitals, surgery centers, doctors, and clinics that serves the medical needs of Utah, Idaho and now Nevada. Key medical services include cancer, heart, women and newborns, orthopedics, sports medicine, and more.

Province first got his start in 2010 as a resident physician at Baystate Medical Center. From there, he went on to Intermountain Healthcare, before eventually rising to chief resident at Johns Hopkins Hospital, his most recent position prior to joining Intermountain Healthcare. Province graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Indiana University School of Medicine with an MD.

 

6. Cynthia Booth
Banner Health, Chief Medical Officer
Creighton University

Cynthia Booth began her professional career 26 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Medical Officer of Banner Health. Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health is one of the largest nonprofit health care systems in the country. The system owns and operates 28 acute-care hospitals, Banner Health Network, Banner University Medicine, academic and employed physician groups, long-term care centers, outpatient surgery centers and an array of other services, including Banner Urgent Care, family clinics, home care and hospice services, pharmacies and a nursing registry.

Booth first got her start in 1995 as a resident physician at Phoenix Integrated Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology. From there, she went on to Focus on Women, before eventually rising to physician at Preferred Women's Care - Payson Healthcare, her most recent position prior to joining Banner Health. Booth graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine with an MD and from California State University Fullerton with an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

7. Brian Powers
Humana, Deputy Chief Medical Officer
Harvard University

Brian Powers is the Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Humana, a health insurance company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. Originally founded in 1961 as a nursing home operator, the company transitioned into owning and managing hospitals, then to health insurance plans in the 1980s.

Previously, Powers was an internal medicine physician at Newton Wellesley Hospital and before that a director for population health strategy and analytics at Anthem. Earlier in his career he worked with CareMore Health as a delivery innovation lead. Powers earned an MBA from Harvard Business School, an MD from Harvard Medical School, and an undergraduate degree in history from Bowdoin College.

 

8. Martin Schreiber
DaVita Kidney Care, Chief Medical Officer
Wake Forest University

Martin Schreiber is a Chief Medical Officer for DaVita Kidney Care. DaVita is the largest provider of kidney care services in the U.S. and has been a leader in clinical quality and innovation for 20 years, focused on transforming care delivery to improve quality of life for patients around the globe. Schreiber has over 39 years in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 1982.

Before joining DaVita Kidney Care, Schreiber was a staff in the department of nephrology and hypertension at Cleveland Clinic. Schreiber graduated from Wake Forest School of Medicine with an MD and from John Carroll University with an undergraduate degree in pre-medicine.

 

9. Kayode Williams
Johns Hopkins Medicine, Chief Medical Officer
University of Michigan

Kayode Williams is the Chief Medical Officer of Johns Hopkins Medicine. He first joined the health system in 2005 as director for off-site pain management. Johns Hopkins Medicine is a governing structure for the University’s School of Medicine and the health system, coordinating their research, teaching, patient care, and related enterprises.

Previously, Williams was a lecturer in anesthesiology and pain medicine at University of Michigan and before that a clinical assistant at Joyce Green Hospital. Earlier in his career he worked with Baptist Medical Center as a physician. Williams earned an MBA from the University of Michigan and an undergraduate degree in medicine and surgery from College of Medicine University of Lagos.

 

10. Maurie Markman
Cancer Treatment Centers of America, President of Medicine and Science
New York University

Maurie Markman began his professional career 44 years ago. Today, he is the President of Medicine and Science at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA). CTCA has continued to help lead the way in changing the delivery of cancer care, providing each patient a comprehensive treatment plan tailored specifically to his or her needs, goals and lifestyle.

Markman first got his start in 1977 as a chief resident of internal medicine at Bellevue Hospital-New York University Medical Center. From there, he went on to the National Cancer Institute before eventually rising to chairman for the Department of Gynecologic Medical Oncology at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Markman graduated from New York University with a master’s degree in health policy and management, from New York University School of Medicine with an MD and from the University of Southern California with an undergraduate degree in biology.

 

11. John Newman
Advocate Aurora Health Care, Chief Medical Officer and President
Uniformed Services University

John Newman is the Chief Medical Officer and President of Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh at Advocate Aurora Health Care. A national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care, Advocate Aurora serves nearly 3 million patients annually in Illinois and Wisconsin across more than 500 sites of care. Advocate Aurora is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, and is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology and pediatrics.

Newman graduated from Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences with an MD.

 

12. Andrew Gerber
Silver Hill Hospital, President and Medical Director
Yale University

Andrew Gerber is the President and Medical Director of Silver Hill Hospital. Silver Hill Hospital is a nationally recognized, independent, not-for-profit psychiatric hospital located in New Canaan, Connecticut. Silver Hill Hospital provides treatment for adolescents and adults with psychiatric and substance use disorders.

Previously, Gerber was an associate clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University Medical Center and before that a medical director and chief operating officer at Austin Riggs Center. Earlier in his career he worked with Brain Imaging Lab, NYSPI and Columbia University as a clinical fellow. Gerber earned a PhD in psychology from the University College London, an MD from Harvard Medical School, and an undergraduate degree in physics from Yale University.

 

13. David Fairchild
CVS Health, Chief Medical Officer
Harvard University

David Fairchild is the Chief Medical Officer of MinuteClinic and Associate Chief Medical Officer of CVS Health. He first joined the company in 2019. CVS Health Corporation is healthcare company that owns the CVS Pharmacy retail pharmacy chain, CVS Caremark pharmacy benefits manager and Aetna health insurance, among many other brands.

Previously, Fairchild was an editor-in-chief of physician’s first watch at Massachusetts Medical Society and before that a director at BDC Advisors, LLC. Earlier in his career he worked with Yale - New Haven Hospital as an internal medicine resident. Fairchild earned an MPH in clinical effectiveness from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and an MD from Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine.

 

14. Scott Nygaard
Lee Health, Chief Operating Officer
University of Minnesota

Scott Nygaard is the Chief Operating Officer of Lee Health. He first joined the health system in 2010 as chief medical officer for physician services and network development. Lee Health is the leading provider of health care in Southwest Florida and serves the citizens of Lee County and surrounding communities.

Previously, Nygaard was a senior vice president for corporate services at Via Christi Health and before that a chief medical officer at Affinity Health System. Earlier in his career he worked with University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics as a resident of internal medicine. Nygaard earned an MBA from the University of St. Thomas - Opus College of Business, an MD from the University of Minnesota Medical School, and an undergraduate degree in biology from Hamline University.

 

15. Lynn Simon
Community Health Systems, President of Clinical Operations and Chief Medical Officer
University of Louisville

Lynn Simon is the President of Clinical Operations and Chief Medical Officer of Community Health Systems. Community Health Systems is one of Tennessee’s leading operators of general acute care hospitals. Simon has 20 years in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 2001.

Before joining Community Health, Simon was a president at Greater Louisville Medical Society. Earlier in her career he worked with Jewish Hospital & St. Mary’s HealthCare as a chief medical officer. Simon graduated from Bellarmine University with an MBA, from the University of Louisville School of Medicine with an MD, and from Indiana University Bloomington with an undergraduate degree in biology.

 

16. Scott Sasser
Prisma Health, Chief Executive Officer
Tulane University

Scott Sasser began his professional career 22 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer of Prisma Health. Prisma Health is the largest not-for-profit health organization in South Carolina, serving more than 1.2 million patients annually. The health system has their center focus on being the difference to inspire and serve with compassion.

Sasser first got his start in 1999 as a medical director at American Medical Center. From there, he went on to Emirates Palomar Medical Technology Services, before eventually rising to a professor for emergency medicine at University of South Carolina, his most recent position prior to joining Prisma Health. Sasser graduated from Tulane University School of Medicine with an MD and from Auburn University with an undergraduate degree in accounting.

 

17. Connie Price
Denver Health, Chief Medical Officer
Northwestern University

Connie Price is the Chief Medical Officer of Denver Health. Denver Health is an integrated, efficient, high-quality academic health care system that is considered a model for the nation. Price has over 26 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 1996.

Before joining Denver Health, Price was an associate director for microbiology and infectious diseases research at NorthShore University HealthSystem and before that an epidemiologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Earlier in her career she worked with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine as a resident in internal medicine. Price graduated from Northwestern University with an MD and from Beloit College with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry.

 

18. Inua Momodu
AtlantiCare, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
Tulane University

Inua Momodu began his professional career over 30 years ago. Today, he is the Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of AtlantiCare. AtlantiCare is an integrated system of services designed to help people achieve optimal health. It does so by focusing on customer needs and expectations to provide accessible and comprehensive services of superior quality and value.

Momodu has held several other roles with AtlantiCare including chief medical ambulatory officer, chairman of the department of psychiatry and medical doctor. Momodu graduated from Stockton University with an MBA, from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine with a master of public health in epidemiology and biostatistics, and from the University of Ibadan with an MD.

 

19. Roger Bies
Dignity Health, Chief Medical Officer
University of Colorado

Roger Bies is the Chief Medical Officer of Dignity Health. Dignity Health provides quality, compassionate health care at more than 40 hospitals and care centers serving communities across California, Arizona, and Nevada. Bies has 29 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 1992.

Before joining Dignity Health, Bies was a senior managing partner at Central Arizona Heart Specialists and before that a founder and executive director at the Heart Health Organization. Earlier in his career he worked with the Institute of Molecular Genetics as a professor. Bies graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine with an MD and from the University of Colorado Denver with an undergraduate degree in chemistry and biology.

 

20. Roger Kapoor
Beloit Health System, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
The George Washington University

Roger Kapoor is the Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Beloit Health System. Beloit Health System is an independent community health system serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. They offer world-class facilities and services to improve the overall health of the communities they serve with cornerstones for quality, engagement, integrity, and patient satisfaction. Kapoor began his career with Beloit in 2013.

Prior to his current roles, Kapoor was a medical director, vice president and dermatologist. Kapoor graduated from The George Washington University with an MD and from the University of Oxford with an MBA.

 

21. Mayank Shah
Meridian, Chief Medical Officer
Northwestern University

Mayank Shah began his professional career over 19 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Medical Officer of Meridian. Meridian is Michigan's largest Medicaid HMO, providing health care to Medicaid beneficiaries through a contract with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to continuously improve the quality of care in a low-resource environment.

Shah first got his start in 2002 as an associate director at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. From there, he went on to Presence Health Resurrection Medical Center, before eventually rising to chief medical officer at Presence Health Partners, his most recent position prior to joining Meridian. Shah graduated from Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee with an MBA and from Northwestern University - The Feinberg School of Medicine with an MD.

 

22. Robert Insoft
Women & Infants Hospital, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
Boston University

Robert Insoft began his professional career over 23 years ago. Today, he is the Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Women & Infants Hospital. Women & Infants is a premier hospital for women and newborn children. It is the nation’s eighth busiest stand-alone obstetrical service and operates one of the nation’s largest single-family room neonatal intensive care units.

In 1998 Insoft served as a medical director at Partners HealthCare. From there, he went on to Brown University, his most recent position prior to joining Women & Infants Hospital. Insoft graduated from Boston University with an MD.

 

23. Teresa Caulin-Glaser
OhioHealth, Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer
Case Western Reserve University

Teresa Caulin-Glaser began her professional career 34 years ago. Today, she is the Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer of OhioHealth. OhioHealth is a not-for-profit system of hospitals and healthcare providers located in Columbus, Ohio and surrounding areas. The system consists of 12 hospitals, 200+ ambulatory sites, hospice, home health, medical equipment and other health services spanning 47 Ohio counties.

Caulin-Glaser first got her start in 1987 as a resident in internal medicine at Yale University School of Medicine. From there, she went on to McConnell Heart Health Center, before eventually rising to co-director of women’s health research at Yale University School of Medicine, her most recent position prior to joining OhioHealth. Caulin-Glaser graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine with an MD.

 

24. Lydia Bartholomew
Aetna, Chief Medical Officer
University of Washington

Lydia Bartholomew is the Chief Medical Officer of Aetna. She first joined the company in 2011 as senior medical director of the Pacific Northwest. Aetna is a managed health care company that sells traditional and consumer directed health care insurance and related services, such as medical, pharmaceutical, dental, behavioral health, long-term care, and disability plans.

Previously, Bartholomew was a medical and administrative director of physician practices at Evergreen Healthcare and before that a senior medical director at Qualis Health. Earlier in her career she worked with US Global Health as an international physician. Bartholomew earned an MHA from the University of Washington and an MD from the University of California.

 

25. William Chasanov
Beebe Healthcare, Chief Population Health Officer and Physician in Chief
University of Delaware

William Chasanov is the Chief Population Health Officer and Physician in Chief of Beebe Healthcare. Beebe Healthcare offers an array of inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and diagnostic services in Delaware. Chasanov has over 14 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 2007.

Before joining Beebe Healthcare, Chasanov was an infectious disease physician at Cooper University Health Care and before that an internal medicine physician at Christiana Care Health System. Chasanov graduated from the University of Delaware with an MBA, from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine with an MD, and from the University of Delaware with an undergraduate degree in biological sciences and chemistry.

 

26. Phyllis Mason
Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, Chief Medical Officer
Louisiana State University

Phyllis Mason is the Chief Medical Officer of Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. Natchitoches Regional Medical Center serves Natchitoches, Winn, and Sabine parishes of Louisiana. They offer a continuum of care from newborns to centennials and are solely focused on the wellbeing of all those entrusted to their care.

Mason graduated from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center with an MD, from the University of Texas at Tyler with an MPA and from Grambling State University with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.

 

27. Dan Hagler
Atrium Health, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
University of Virginia

Dan Hagler is the Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Atrium Health. He first joined the organization in 2012. Atrium Health is an integrated, not-for-profit healthcare system and a nationally recognized leader in shaping health outcomes through innovative research, education and compassionate patient care.

Previously, Hagler was a VP and CMO at Carolinas Healthcare System. Earlier in his career he worked with Novant Health as an EVP of Presbyterian Regional Healthcare Corporation. Hagler earned an MD from the University of Virginia and an undergraduate degree in biology from Brown University.

 

28. Gil Ortega
HonorHealth, Vice Chief of Staff
Yale University

Gil Ortega is the Vice Chief of Staff of HonorHealth. He first joined the health system in 2017 as surgery vice chair. With more than 3,000 expert physicians, 12,000 dedicated employees, and 3,000 caring volunteers, HonorHealth continues to strengthen the community, making sure that everyone has access to quality healthcare.

Previously, Ortega was an adjunct professor for orthopaedics at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and before that a president at Infinitude Inc. Earlier in his career he worked with Arizona State University as a sports medicine advisory team orthopaedic consultant. Ortega earned an MD and MPH from Yale University School of Medicine and an undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Houston.

 

29. John Vozenilek
OSF HealthCare, Chief Medical Officer of Innovation & Digital Health
University of Miami

John Vozenilek is the Chief Medical Officer of Innovation & Digital Health of OSF HealthCare. He first joined the company in 2012 as CMO for Simulation. OSF HealthCare is a multi-state healthcare system, providing state-of-the-art, compassionate care to nearly 3 million people in the communities it serves.

Previously, Vozenilek was a director for simulation technology and immersive learning at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine and before that a director of simulation technology and academic research at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare. Vozenilek earned a PhD in curriculum studies with a focus in health professions education from the University of Illinois, an MD from the University of Miami - Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, and an undergraduate degree in microbiology from the University of Florida.

 

30. Adam Burick
Post Acute Medical, Chief Medical Officer
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Adam Burick is the Chief Medical Officer of Post Acute Medical. Post Acute Medical is committed to providing high quality patient care and outstanding customer service, coupled with loyalty and dedication of highly trained staff, to be the most trusted source for post-acute services in every community it serves. Burick has 28 years in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 1993.

Before joining Post Acute Medical, Burick was a physician advisor and surgeon at Health Management Associates. Earlier in his career he worked with PinnacleHealth System as a general surgery resident. Burick graduated from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine with an MD in osteopathic medicine and from King’s College with an undergraduate degree in chemistry and biology.

 

31. Michael Zinaman
NYC Health + Hospitals, Chief Medical Officer
The State University of New York

Michael Zinaman began his professional career 36 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Medical Officer of NYC Health + Hospitals. NYC Health + Hospitals is the nation’s largest public health care delivery system. They are an integrated network of hospitals, trauma centers, neighborhood health centers, nursing homes, and post-acute care centers.

Zinaman first got his start in 1985 as a consultant for Clinical Gynecology Service at The National Institutes of Health. From there, he went on to Georgetown University Medical Center, before eventually rising to chairman for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, his most recent position prior to joining NYC Health + Hospitals. Zinaman graduated from SUNY Downstate Medical Center School of Public Health with an MD and from the University of Rochester with an undergraduate degree in general biology.

 

32. Samuel Hammerman
Select Medical, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
Carnegie Mellon University

Samuel Hammerman is the Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Select Medical. Select Medical is a healthcare company that owns long term acute care and inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, as well as occupational health and physical therapy clinics. Hammerman has nearly 23 years in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 1999.

Before joining Select Medical, Hammerman was a director for pulmonary and critical care medicine at Geisinger Health System - Northeast Region and before that an assistant director at Medicine Specialties. Earlier in his career he worked with Westmoreland Regional Hospital as a chairman. Hammerman graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a master’s degree in medical management and from the University of Maryland with an undergraduate degree.

 

33. David Weiser
Genesis Health Group, President
Texas A&M University

David Weiser is the President of Genesis Health Group. He first joined the health group in 2012 as an administrative fellow. Genesis Health, located in Iowa, exists to provide compassionate, quality health services to all those in need. It contains 665 inpatient beds across the entire health system and employs 5,500 people.

Previously, Weiser was a vice president for operations at Centura Health, and before that a patient service specialist at Scott and White. Earlier in his career he worked with Baylor Health Care System as a patient care assistant. Weiser earned a master’s degree in health and healthcare administration & management and an undergraduate degree in general biomedical services from Texas A&M University.

 

34. Denise Claussen
Texas Health Resources, Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer
University of Tampa

Denise Claussen is the Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer of Texas Health Resources. She first joined the company in 2011. Texas Health Resources is one of the largest faith-based, nonprofit health systems in the United States and the largest in North Texas in terms of inpatients and outpatients served.

Previously, Claussen was a senior director for perioperative services at Children's Medical Center and before that a CNO at Surgery Specialty Hospital. Claussen earned a MSN in nursing leadership from the University of Dubuque and an undergraduate degree in nursing from the University of Tampa.

 

35. James Wantuck
PlushCare, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer
Vanderbilt University

James Wantuck is the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of PlushCare. PlushCare provides same-day doctor’s appointments from wherever the patients are. Patients can book a visit to see a doctor from the top 50 U.S. medical schools or see a therapist through their online therapy program. Wantuck has 11 years of experience in the healthcare field. He began his career in 2010.

Before joining PlushCare, Wantuck was an assistant professor of medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine and before that a physician at Palo Alto VA Hospital. Earlier in his career he worked with Stanford University Medical Center as a resident physician. Wantuck graduated from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine with an MD and from the University of Pittsburgh with an undergraduate degree in chemistry and neuroscience.

 

36. Monika Roots
Bend Health, Co-Founder, President and Chief Medical Officer
University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine

Monika Roots began her professional career 13 years ago. Today, she is the Co-Founder, President and Chief Medical Officer of Bend Health. Bend Health is a new healthcare company launched to increase access and reduce the cost of expert mental health care for families.

Roots first got her start in 2008 as a child/adolescent psychiatrist at Aris Clinic. From there, she went on to Plymouth Psych Group, before eventually rising to chief medical officer at Sanvello, her most recent position prior to joining Bend Health. Roots graduated from the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine with an MD and from Carleton College with an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

37. Praveen Mehta
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Acting Chief Medical Executive
Binghamton University

Praveen Mehta is the Acting Chief Medical Executive of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is a Cabinet-level executive branch department of the federal government charged with providing life-long healthcare services to eligible military veterans at the 1700 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics located throughout the country. Mehta has over 18 years in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 2003.

Before joining the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Mehta was an associate chief of staff and service chief for ambulatory care at VA North Texas Health Care System and before that a chief of medicine at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates. Earlier in his career he worked with Harvard Medical School as a clinical instructor. Mehta graduated from Binghamton University - School of Management with an MBA with concentration in healthcare and from the University of Mumbai with an MD.

 

38. Bethany Kranitzky
Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Deputy Chief Medical Officer
The Ohio State University

Bethany Kranitzky is the Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Mount Sinai Beth Israel. Mount Sinai Beth Israel is a teaching hospital founded in 1889 on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. They are known for their unique approach to combining medical excellence with clinical innovation. Kranitzky has over 13 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 2008.

Before joining Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Kranitzky was an attending physician at Dartmouth-Hitchcock and before that an internal medicine resident at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Kranitzky graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine with an MD and from Butler University with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.

 

39. Cynthia Hagerty
Ascension, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer
Fort Hays State University

Cynthia Hagerty is the Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer of Ascension. Ascension is a faith-based healthcare organization, one of the largest private healthcare systems in the United States, dedicated to transformation through innovation across the continuum of care. Hagerty has 42 years in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 1979.

Before joining Ascension, Hagerty was an administrative nursing director at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis and before that a clinical nurse manager at Cedar Surgical. Earlier in her career he worked with Wesley Medical Center as a head nurse in surgical intensive care. Hagerty graduated from Southwestern University with a MS in leadership and from Fort Hays State University with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

40. Marco Vega
Forefront Behavioral Health, Founder and Chief Operating Officer
The University of Texas

Marco Vega is the Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Forefront Behavioral Health. Forefront Behavioral Health was created to provide the highest quality psychiatric care to the people they serve. They understand that talking about mental health can be challenging and confusing for so many.

Previously, Vega was a psychiatrist at Tropical Texas Behavioral Health and before that a psychiatrist at Tenet Healthcare. Vega earned an MD from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and an undergraduate degree in general biology from The University of Texas-Pan American.

 

41. Stephen Gordon
Edenbridge Health, Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Yale University

Stephen Gordon is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Edenbridge Health. Edenbridge Health is a mission-driven, for-profit care delivery organization founded in 2016 with the mission of providing comprehensive, integrated, community-based, and person-centered care to the elderly. Gordon has 8 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 2013.

Before joining Edenbridge Health, Gordon was a faculty member at Harvard Medical School and before that a staff physician at Uphams Corner Health Center. Earlier in his career he worked with Hebrew SeniorLife as an attending physician. Gordon graduated from Yale University School of Medicine with an MD, from The Wharton School with an MBA and from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree in history and science.

 

42. Eric Paul
HCA Healthcare, President of Behavioral Health Services
California State University

Eric Paul is the President of Behavioral Health Services of HCA Healthcare. He first joined the company in 2018. HCA Healthcare is a for-profit operator of health care facilities that owns and operates 186 hospitals and 2,000 sites of care, including surgery centers, freestanding emergency rooms, urgent care centers and physician clinics in 21 states and the UK.

Previously, Paul was a COO for payment cycle management at UnitedHealth Group and before that a VP for network development at Amerigroup Corporation. Earlier in his career he worked with Quorum Health Services as a VP for managed care services. Paul earned an MS in healthcare administration from the University of La Verne and an undergraduate degree in finance from California State University.

 

43. Amandeep Singh
Prime Healthcare, Chief Medical Officer

Amandeep Singh is the Chief Medical Officer of Prime Healthcare. Prime Healthcare is an award-winning national hospital system with 45 acute-care hospitals in 14 states with nearly 50,000 employees and physicians. Their philosophy is that all healthcare is local. Each of their hospitals serves the unique needs of their communities while providing exceptional care with the strength and support of the entire health system.

Previously, Singh was an attending physician at King’s County Hospital Center and before that an attending physician at Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center. Earlier in his career he worked with Internal Medicine IU as a clinical assistant professor. Singh earned an undergraduate degree in medicine and surgery.

 

44. Anne Hargrave-Thomas
OakLeaf Surgical Hospital, Chief Operating Officer
Baker College

Anne Hargrave-Thomas began her professional career over 24 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer of OakLeaf Surgical Hospital. Their reputation for superior surgical care is based on their skilled independent physicians and surgeons, experienced staff, outstanding patient care, home-like comforts and enhanced services and amenities. They serve patients from Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Menomonie and the entire Chippewa Valley in Wisconsin.

Thomas first got her start in 1997 as a clinical services director at University Women's Care. From there, she went on to Lakes Surgery Center. Thomas graduated from Baker College Center for Graduate Studies with an MBA.

 

45. Robert Cherry
UCLA Health, Chief Medical and Quality Officer
Columbia University

Robert Cherry began his professional career over 24 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Medical and Quality Officer of UCLA Health. For more than half a century, UCLA Health has provided the best in healthcare and the latest in medical technology to the people of Los Angeles and throughout the world.

Cherry first got his start in 1997 as an associate director of trauma at LibertyHealth Jersey City Medical Center. From there, he went on to Lincoln Medical & Mental Health Center, before eventually rising to director for clinical and operational excellence at Navigant, his most recent position prior to joining UCLA Health. Cherry graduated from Harvard School of Public Health with a master’s degree in healthcare management, from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons with an MD, and from Columbia University in the City of New York with an undergraduate degree in pre-medicine/pre-medical studies.

 

46. Essam Ansari
InCare, Chief Operating Officer
Boston University

Essam Ansari is the Chief Operating Officer of InCare. InCare is a team of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine specialists dedicated to outstanding treatment for their patients.

Previously, Ansari was a chief of medicine at Steward Health Care and before that a vice president at Massachusetts Medical Society. Earlier in his career he worked with TriHealth as a director for the Sleep Disorders Center. Ansari earned an MBA from Boston University Questrom School of Business, an MPH from Harvard School of Public Health and an undergraduate degree in medicine and surgery from Jamiat Al-Malik Abdulaziz.

 

47. Kris Giese
Providence Medical Center, Chief Operating Officer
University of Minnesota

Kris Giese is the Chief Operating Officer for Providence Medical Center in Nebraska. She first joined the medical center in 2013 as the director for allied health and ancillary services. Providence Medical Center offers acute, skilled/swing-bed care, palliative care, as well as Medicare certified Home Health, Hospice, and private pay personal care. The non-profit hospital remains one of the best small, rural hospitals in northeast Nebraska, employing nearly 200 individuals, and providing state-of-the-art healthcare to more than 15,000 area residents.

Prior to joining Providence Medical Center, Giese was a director for laboratory services at Mercy Medical Center in Iowa. She graduated from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management with a master’s degree in healthcare administration.

 

48. Christopher Chiantella
Inova Loudoun Hospital, Chief Medical Officer
University of Virginia

Christopher Chiantella is the Chief Medical Officer of Inova Loudoun Hospital. Inova Loudoun Hospital is a nationally recognized, advanced community hospital with a rich history. It was named World Report Best Hospital for 2018-19. It is also ranked among the top hospitals in the country for nursing excellence, emergency care services, and patient safety. Chiantella has 37 years in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 1984.

Before joining Inova Loudoun Hospital, Chiantella was a physician at Catoctin Family Practice and before that a physician at Guthrie Medical Group. Earlier in his career he worked with Beckett, Barnhill & Petersen as a physician. Chiantella graduated from the University of Virginia with an MD in clinical ethics, from Università di Bologna with an MD, and from New York University with an undergraduate degree.

 

49. Lesalee Chilcote
Encompass Health, Chief Executive Officer
Louisanna State University

Lesalee Chilcote is the Chief Executive Officer of Encompass Health. She first joined the health system in 2015 as pharmacy director. Encompass Health offers facility-based and home-based patient care through their network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies and hospice agencies.

Previously, Chilcote was an associate director for pharmaceutical services at PRACS Institute and before that an associate director for Pharmacy Cetero Research. Earlier in her career she worked with Midsouth Pharmacy Associates as a pharmacy director. Chilcote earned an MBA from LSU Shreveport and an undergraduate degree in pharmacy from the University of Louisiana Monroe.

 

50. Sarju Shah
Beaumont Health, Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director
University of Detroit

Sarju Shah is the Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director for Beaumont ACO of Beaumont Health. He first joined the system in 1994 as a medical director. Beaumont Health is Michigan’s largest health care system. It was formed in 2014 to provide patients with compassionate, extraordinary care, no matter where they live in Southeast Michigan.

Previously, Shah was a private practitioner at Cherry Hill Medical Group. Earlier in his career he worked with the United States Air Force as an Occupational Health Physician. Shah earned an MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy and an undergraduate degree in medicine and surgery in India.

 

51. Michael Baker
UnitedHealthcare Provider Operations, Chief Operating Officer
Dartmouth College

Michael Baker serves as Chief Operating Officer of UnitedHealthcare Provider Operations, a division of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH). Baker oversees all strategy and operations for UHC Provider Operations – supporting the largest provider network in the United States and the more than 50 million UHC members they serve.

Previously, Baker led Consumer Services for UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare & Retirement business where he and his team became the first major health plan in the U.S. to achieve J.D. Power Call Center Certification. He earned an MBA from University of Phoenix, MHCDS from Dartmouth College, is an Honorary Senior Inventor at UnitedHealth Group and is recognized as a Certified Professional Innovator by Georgia State University.

 

52. Michael Mascia
Veritas Health Care, Founder and President
Tulane University

Michael Mascia began his professional career 28 years ago. Today, he is the Founder and President of Veritas Health Care. Veritas is a veteran-owned small business. It was formed originally as a staffing firm after 9/11 in partnership with Humana Military Healthcare Services, to support the urgent need to back-fill for active-duty military medical personnel being deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mascia first got his start in 1993 as a director for critical care anesthesiology at SUNY Upstate Medical University. From there, he went on to Tulane University School of Medicine, before eventually rising to become a critical care anesthesiologist at Geisinger Health System, his most recent position prior to joining Veritas Health Care. Mascia graduated from Tulane University with MD and MPH and from Saint Anselm College with an undergraduate degree in general biology.

 

53. Kristine Donahue
Beaumont Health, Chief Operating Officer
Central Michigan University

Kristine Donahue is the Chief Operating Officer of Beaumont Health, Michigan’s largest health care system. Their culture of caring partnerships and care delivery model of patient and family-centered care demonstrates their commitment to engaging patients, their family, and the community to promote continuous health care improvements. Donahue has over 8 years of experience in the hospital and health care field. She began her career in 2013.

Donahue graduated from Central Michigan University with a master’s in health and healthcare administration & management and from Oakland University with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

54. Charlotte Rankin
Mercy Hospital, Chief Operating and Chief Nursing Officer
Northeastern State University

Charlotte Rankin is the Chief Operating and Chief Nursing Officer at Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas. Mercy is one of the nation’s most highly integrated, multi-state health care systems, including more than 40 acute care, managed and specialty (heart, children’s, orthopedic and rehab) hospitals, convenient and urgent care locations, imaging centers and pharmacies. They serve patients and families across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

Rankin was recruited to Mercy nearly 20 years ago to lead the collaboration and advancement of the Cardiovascular service line. After the successful implementation of the Open-Heart program, Rankin has remained at Mercy where she continues to advocate for patient care, wellness, and excellence in healthcare service. Rankin graduated from Baptist School of Nursing – Northwest and from Northeastern State University with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in health administration.

 

55. Amanda Lucas
Wexner Medical Center, Executive Director for Clinical Operations and Chief Executive Officer
University of Pittsburgh

Amanda Lucas began her professional career nearly 20 years ago. Today, she is the Executive Director for Clinical Operations and Chief Executive Officer for the Neurological Institute of Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University. The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center is a leader in central Ohio for healthcare and medical research.

Lucas first got her start in 2002 as a clinical network manager at UPMC. From there, she went on to Nationwide Children’s Hospital as an administrator for Behavioral Health and Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, her most recent position prior to joining Wexner Medical Center. Lucas graduated from Point Park University with an MBA and from the University of Pittsburgh with a master’s degree in psychiatry.

 

56. Andrea McCoy
Cape Regional Medical Center, Chief Medical Officer
Pennsylvania State University

Andrea McCoy is the Chief Medical Officer of Cape Regional Medical Center. Cape Regional Health System is an integrated healthcare delivery system serving residents and visitors throughout Cape May County in New Jersey

Previously, McCoy was a chief medical officer at Jeanes Hospital and before that a medical director for ambulatory care and an associate chair of pediatrics at Temple University School of Medicine. McCoy earned an MD from Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine and an undergraduate degree in biology and chemistry from Ursinus College.

 

57. Eithne-Marie Barton
Community Health Alliance Nevada, Chief Medical Officer
Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

Eithne-Marie Barton began her professional career 25 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Medical Officer of Community Health Alliance Nevada. The Community Health Alliance Nevada provides a wide range of services, including medical, dental, and behavioral health care. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, they also provide community education on health issues and outreach to underserved populations.

Barton first got her start in 1996 as an assistant director for the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Chicago. From there, she went on to the Chicago Health and Aging Project, before eventually rising to a geriatric fellow at Beaumont Health, her most recent position prior to joining Community Health Alliance Nevada. Barton graduated from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine with a DO and from Carleton College with an undergraduate degree in American history.

 

58. Donald Whiting
Allegheny Health Network, Chief Medical Officer
Georgetown University

Donald Whiting is the Chief Medical Officer of Allegheny Health Network. Allegheny Health Network is a patient-centered and physician-led health network that includes hospitals, health and wellness pavilions, primary and specialty care offices, and more. Whiting has 7 years in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 2014.

Whiting graduated from Georgetown University with a MS in physiology and from Grinnell College with an undergraduate degree in chemistry and psychology.

 

59. Ehab Hanna
UHS, Vice President and Chief Medical Information Officer
University of Pennsylvania

Ehab Hanna is the Vice President and Chief Medical Information Officer of UHS. He first joined the organization in 2011 as a corporate medical director for clinical content. UHS is one of the largest and most respected providers of hospital and healthcare services in Pennsylvania, dedicated to improving people’s lives and transforming the delivery of healthcare.

Previously, Hanna was a senior advisor for the Department of Health Informatics at Bryan University and before that an assistant chief medical information officer at Eastern Maine Medical Center. Earlier in his career he worked with Carney Hospital as a medical resident. Hanna earned an executive MBA from the University of Pennsylvania - The Wharton School and an undergraduate degree in medicine and surgery from Ain Shams University.

 

60. Eric Mooss
Bryan Health, President
University of Iowa

Eric Mooss is the President of Bryan Health. Bryan Health is a Nebraska governed, non-profit health system that cares for patients, educates tomorrow’s health care providers and motivates the community with fitness and health programs.

Previously, Mooss was an executive director for primary care at Banner Health and before that, an operations vice president at Centura Health. Earlier in his career he worked with Alegent Health as an administrative fellow. Mooss earned an MHA from the University of Iowa and an undergraduate degree in health administration and policy from Creighton University.

 

61. Trevor Rabie
WellCare Health Plans, Chief Medical Officer
University of Cape Town

Trevor Rabie is the Chief Medical Officer of WellCare Texas of WellCare Health Plans. He first joined the organization in 2015. WellCare Health Plans focuses primarily on providing government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors and individuals with complex medical needs.

Previously, Rabie was a physician at Houston Chest Internists. Earlier in his career he worked with Memorial Hermann Health System as a director for physician advisory services. Rabie earned an undergraduate degree in medicine and surgery from the University of Cape Town.

 

62. Rosanne Raso
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer
Wagner College

Rosanne Raso began her professional career 35 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. At NewYork-Presbyterian, they put patients first with their unwavering commitment to excellence and a steady spirit of professionalism.

Raso first got her start in 1986 as an assistant director for critical care nursing at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. From there, she went on to Staten Island University Hospital before eventually rising to senior vice president and chief integration officer at NYU Langone Hospital. Raso graduated from Wagner College with a Master of Science degree in nursing.

 

63. Barbara Jacobs
Anne Arundel Medical Center, Vice President of Nursing and Chief Nurse Officer
The George Washington University

Barbara Jacobs is the Vice President of Nursing and Chief Nurse Officer of Anne Arundel Medical Center. AAMC has been a beacon for the community with recognition for its joint replacement center, emergency heart attack response and cancer care. They are committed to lighting the way, not just for their patients, but for their entire community.

Previously, Jacobs was a senior director and chief nurse officer at Suburban Hospital and before that a director for critical care at George Washington University Hospital. Jacobs earned a MSN from The George Washington University and an undergraduate degree in nursing from the University of Rochester.

 

64. Melissa Spann
Monte Nido & Affiliates, Chief Clinical Officer
Drexel University

Melissa Spann is the Chief Clinical Officer of Monte Nido & Affiliates. She first joined the company in 2019. Monte Nido & Affiliates specializes in the treatment of eating disorders for all genders. For over two decades, their tenured and expert staff, which includes recovered professionals, has delivered treatment that leads to full recovery.

Previously, Spann was a vice president for admissions at Monte Nido and before that a primary therapist for the The Renfrew Center. Spann earned a PhD in couple and family therapy from Drexel University and an MS in mental health counseling, and an undergraduate degree in sociology from the University of Florida.

 

65. Charmaine Blanchard
Encompass Health, Chief Nursing Officer
Florida Atlantic University

Charmaine Blanchard began her professional career over 9 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Nursing Officer of Encompass Health. As a national leader of post-acute care, Encompass Health offers facility-based and home-based patient care through their network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies and hospice agencies.

In 2012 Blanchard served as an assistant chief nursing officer at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center. Blanchard graduated from Florida Atlantic University with an MBA.

 

66. Jody Hughes
WellStar Cobb Hospital, Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Medical Affairs
University of Alabama

Jody Reyes is the Chief Operations Officer of UVA Health System. UVA Health System, established in 1825, is the nation’s 10th medical school which has since grown into a nationally renowned academic medical center. It includes a 612-bed hospital, level I trauma center, children's hospital and primary and specialty clinics throughout Central Virginia. Reyes has over 22 years in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 1999.

Before joining UVA Health System, Reyes was a clinical director for the Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation at the City of Hope and before that a director with UC San Diego Health System. Earlier in her career she worked with the US Navy as a nurse corps officer. Reyes graduated from Boston University with an MBA and from Illinois Wesleyan University with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

67. Karen Mitchell
Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, Vice President for Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer
The George Washington University

Karen Mitchell is the Vice President for Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer of Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters. The Children’s Hospital of The King's Daughters is a comprehensive pediatric health system serving children from birth through 21 years of age in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Mitchell has over 25 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 1996.

Mitchell graduated from George Washington University with an MSN and from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

68. Peter Hull
Sutter Health, Chief Medical Executive
University of Illinois

Peter Hull is the Chief Medical Executive of Sutter Health. Sutter Health is one of the nation's leading not-for-profit healthcare networks, which includes award-winning physician organizations, acute care hospitals, surgery centers, medical research facilities and specialty services. Hull has over 7 years in the hospital and healthcare field.

Hull graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine with an MD and from Washington University in St. Louis with an undergraduate degree.

 

69. Jody Reyes
UVA Health System, Chief Operations Officer
Boston University

Jody Reyes is the Chief Operations Officer of UVA Health System. UVA Health System, established in 1825, is the nation’s 10th medical school which has since grown into a nationally renowned academic medical center. It includes a 612-bed hospital, level I trauma center, children's hospital and primary and specialty clinics throughout Central Virginia. Reyes has over 22 years in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 1999.

Before joining UVA Health System, Reyes was a clinical director for the Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation at the City of Hope and before that a director with UC San Diego Health System. Earlier in her career she worked with the US Navy as a nurse corps officer. Reyes graduated from Boston University with an MBA and from Illinois Wesleyan University with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

70. Alisa Starbuck
Brenner Children’s Hospital, President
East Carolina University

Alisa Starbuck began her professional career over 14 years ago. Today, she is the President of Brenner Children’s Hospital of Wake Forest Baptist Health. Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center is a nationally recognized academic medical center and health system based in Winston-Salem, NC.

In 2007 Starbuck served as a manager for the professional practice and clinical innovation at Brenner Children’s Hospital. From there, she went on to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Starbuck graduated from East Carolina University with a DNP and from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with an MSN and an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

71. Michael-Anne Browne
Stanford Children’s Health, Associate Chief Medical Officer
Stanford University

Michael-Anne Brown is the Associate Chief Medical Officer of Accountable Care with Stanford Children’s Health | Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital. Stanford Children’s Health is the largest health care system in the San Francisco Bay Area and one of the few in the country exclusively dedicated to pediatric and obstetric care.

Prior to joining Stanford Children’s Health, Browne was a medical director for Blue Shield of California. She was also previously an executive consultant with Medical Pathways and a medical director for FHP Healthcare in California. Brown graduated from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in human biology and from the University of California Irvine with an MD.

 

72. Gurmeet Sran
Dignity Health, Chief Clinical Data Science Officer
Boston University

Gurmeet Sran began his professional career 17 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Clinical Data Science Officer of Dignity Health. Dignity Health, a California-based not-for-profit public-benefit corporation, operates hospitals and ancillary care facilities in three states. They are the fifth-largest hospital system in the nation and the largest not-for-profit hospital provider in California.

In 2004 Sran was an associate consultant at Inductis LLC. From there, he went on to Stanford University Medical Center where he served as a resident physician in internal medicine. Sran graduated from Boston University School of Medicine with an MD in internal medicine, from the University of Pennsylvania with a master’s degree of bioinformatics and computational biology, and from UC Berkeley with an undergraduate degree in bioengineering.

 

73. Alexander Nazem
Nomad Health, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer
Yale University

Alexander Nazem is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Nomad Health. Nomad Health is the first digital marketplace for healthcare jobs, efficiently connecting quality clinicians with rewarding career opportunities and taking the busywork out of finding clinical work.

Previously, Nazem was an assistant professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and before that an attending physician at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Earlier in his career he worked with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement as a special assistant. Nazem earned an MBA from Harvard Business School, an MD and undergraduate degree in biophysics and biochemistry from Yale University.

 

74. Mary Trembinski
Catholic Health Services, Chief Nursing Informatics Officer and Vice President of Clinical Informatics
Adelphi University

Mary Trembinski is the Chief Nursing Informatics Officer and Vice President of Clinical Informatics of Catholic Health Services. She first joined the company in 2014 as an assistant vice president for clinical informatics. Catholic Health is a non-profit comprehensive healthcare system, providing health services through their hospitals, primary care centers, diagnostic and treatment centers, home care agencies, long-term care facilities and other programs.

Trembinski earned a MS in nursing administration from Adelphi University and an undergraduate degree in nursing from Molloy College.

 

75. Shannon Pengel
Cleveland Clinic, Chief Nursing Officer
Kent State University

Shannon Pengel is the Chief Nursing Officer of Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic, located in Cleveland, Ohio, is a not-for-profit, multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Pengel has over 24 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 1997.

Pengel graduated from the University of Phoenix with a master’s degree in nursing administration and from Kent State University with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

76. Barbara Kinder
LifePoint Health, Chief Clinical Officer
University of Kentucky

Barbara Kinder is the Chief Clinical Officer of LifePoint Hospitals of LifePoint Health. LifePoint Health provides healthcare services in growing regions, rural communities and small towns. Kinder has nearly 13 years in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 2009.

Earlier in her career Kinder worked with HCA as a chief nursing officer. Kinder graduated from Webster University with an MBA and MA in management and leadership and from the University of Kentucky with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

77. Chris Ward
Comanche County Memorial Hospital, Chief Nursing Officer
East Carolina University

Chris Ward is the Chief Nursing Officer at Comanche County Memorial Hospital, an independent, non-profit, acute care facility that prides itself on putting the patient first and providing award-winning care. The hospital is located in Southwest Oklahoma and provides emergency, surgical and primary care services to the surrounding community. Ward has nearly 45 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. He began his career in 1979.

Prior to joining Comanche County Memorial Hospital, Ward held interim positions as a director for an emergency department, chief nursing officer and case management director for various medical facilities. He earned a BSN from Liberty University, an MSN from the University of Phoenix, and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt from Motorola University.

 

78. Christina Perez
Open Hearts Family Wellness, Chief Clinical Integration Officer
Arizona State University

Christina Perez is the Chief Clinical Integration Officer for Open Hearts Family Wellness. Founded in 1974, Open Hearts Family Wellness is a not-for-profit organization that remains dedicated and true to their mission to provide holistic, quality services to support the well-being of people and the communities to which they belong.

Prior to joining Open Hearts Family Wellness Perez was the regional administrator for Terros Health. Since 2004 she has also been an Independent Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor. Perez graduated from Arizona State University with an undergraduate degree in justice studies and from the University of Phoenix with an MBA.

 

79. Gigi Johnson
Kindred Healthcare, Chief Clinical Officer
University of St. Francis

Gigi Johnson is the Chief Clinical Officer of Kindred Healthcare. Kindred is a leading diversified post-acute healthcare provider of transitional care hospitals and rehabilitation services. Kindred Healthcare's mission is to help their patients reach their highest potential for health and healing with intensive medical and rehabilitative care through a compassionate patient experience.

Previously, Johnson was an oncology service line administrator at Erlanger Medical Center. She earned a Master of Health Services Administration from the University of St. Francis.

 

80. Eric Lund
Caravel Autism Health, Chief Clinical Officer
University of Wisconsin

Eric Lund is the Chief Clinical Officer of Caravel Autism Health. Caravel Autism Health delivers top quality in-home intensive, post-intensive, pre-intensive, and diagnostic evaluation services to children with autism spectrum disorder. He began his career in 1994.

Before joining Caravel Autism Health, Lund was a clinical psychologist at Wisconsin Early Autism Project and before that a clinical psychologist at Riverside Psychiatric. Earlier in his career he worked with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections as a psychologist supervisor. Lund graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University with a master’s degree in clinical psychopharmacology and from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay with an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

81. Nicole Telhiard
Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Chief Nursing Officer
Rush University

Nicole Telhiard is the Chief Nursing Officer of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. She first joined the center in 1993 as a vice president for children’s services. Our Lady of the Lake is a not-for-profit 850-bed medical center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana with more than 7,300 employees committed to building a healthy community through excellence in patient care and education.

Telhiard earned a doctorate in nursing practice from Rush University, a master’s degree in nursing from Loyola University in New Orleans and an undergraduate degree in nursing from Southeastern Louisiana University.

 

82. Laura Gallardo
Kaiser Permanente, Chief Operating Officer
Arizona State University

Laura Gallardo is the Chief Operating Officer of Kaiser Permanente. She first joined the organization in 2001 as Managing Director of Public Affairs and Ancillary Services. Kaiser Permanente is one of the largest nonprofit healthcare organizations in the United States, operating 39 hospitals and more than 700 medical offices.

Earlier in her career Gallardo worked with Porter Novelli as an account supervisor. Gallardo earned an MHA from the University of Phoenix and an undergraduate degree from Arizona State University.

 

83. Susan Stinson
BrightStar Care, Chief Operating Officer and Owner
Vanderbilt University

Susan Stinson is the Chief Operating Officer and Owner of BrightStar Care. BrightStar Care is a full-service healthcare staffing agency and franchising organization that provides medical and non-medical homecare to private clients within their homes, ranging from infants to seniors, as well as supplemental healthcare staff to corporate clients. Stinson has 26 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 1995.

Before joining BrightStar Care, Stinson was a senior vice president at AmerisourceBergen Lash Group and before that a director for member strategies at Vizient, Inc. Earlier in her career she worked with McKesson Health Solutions as a clinical director for sales. Stinson graduated from Vanderbilt University with an MBA and from the University of Arkansas with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

84. Michael Paolello
New Bridge Medical Center, Chief Clinical Officer for Addictions Treatment
New Jersey City University

Michael Paolello began his professional career 31 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Clinical Officer for Addictions Treatment with New Bridge Medical Center. New Bridge Medical Center, a clinical affiliate of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, is the largest hospital in New Jersey and provides a continuum of health care services in critical areas including behavioral health, medical detox and substance abuse treatment, long term care and acute care.

In 1990 Paolello was a director for substance abuse treatment at Hoboken University Medical Center which is his most recent position prior to joining New Bridge Medical Center. Paolello graduated from New Jersey City University with a master’s degree in psychology.

 

85. Tracey Blalock
Atrium Health Navicent, Chief Nurse Executive
Georgia College and State University

Tracey Blalock is the Chief Nurse Executive of Atrium Health Navicent, the leading provider of health care in Central and South Georgia. Atrium Health Navicent provides a broad range of community-based, outpatient diagnostic, primary care, extensive home health and hospice care, and comprehensive cancer and rehabilitation services spanning the full continuum of care. Blalock has 13 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 2008.

Blalock graduated from Georgia College and State University with an MSN, MBA and an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

86. Ann Sedore
Crouse Health, Chief Nursing and Clinical Service Officer
Syracuse University

Ann Sedore is the Chief Nursing and Clinical Service Officer of Crouse Health in Syracuse, New York. She first joined the system in 2006 as a director for the Crouse Hospital School of Nursing. Crouse is the region’s largest provider of maternity care services, averaging nearly 4,000 deliveries annually, and is the state-designated regional referral center for high-risk neonatal intensive care services.

Previously, Sedore was a chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at Upstate Medical University. Sedore earned a PhD in adult education from Syracuse University and a master’s degree in nursing and education from New York University.

 

87. Lori Popkes
Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Chief Nursing Officer
Colorado Technical University

Lori Popkes is the Chief Nursing Officer of Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center. As a member of Avera Health, the region's largest and strongest health care network, their patients at Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center receive excellent care of the highest clinical quality.

Previously, Popkes was an associate chief nursing officer at Avera McKennan and before that an assistant vice president for women and children's services at Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center. Popkes earned an MBA from Colorado Technical University-Sioux Falls and an undergraduate degree in nursing from Augustana College.

 

88. Annie Fowler
Sound Physicians, Chief People Officer
Virginia Commonwealth University

Annie Fowler is the Chief People Officer at Sound Physicians. She first joined the company in 2008. Sound Physicians is a leading healthcare organization with a proven track record of improving quality, satisfaction and financial performance for its hospital partners nationwide. Sound combines a high-performance model with engaged providers to drive reproducible results across the acute episode of care through emergency medicine, hospital medicine, critical care, transitional care, advisory services, and telemedicine.

Fowler has held several positions with Sound Physicians over the years including senior recruiting consultant, director for outreach and recruitment, regional director of operations and vice president of physician services. Prior to joining Sound Physicians, Fowler was a vice president with Phoenix Physicians. She graduated from James Mason University with an undergraduate degree in health services administration and biology and from Virginia Commonwealth University with an MBA.

 

89. Warren Stowell
Tenet Healthcare, Chief Executive Officer
University of Denver

Warren Stowell began his professional career 28 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer of Tenet Healthcare. The organization manages $25 billion in net patient revenue annually and supports care management for 5.9 million people. Their clients include hospitals and health systems, physician groups, health plans, and self-insured organizations.

In 1993 Stowell was an EVP at Ramsay HMO (United Healthcare). From there, he went on to Brevard Medical Centers, before eventually rising to division VP at HCA Physician Services, his most recent position prior to joining Tenet Healthcare. Stowell graduated from the University of Denver with a master’s degree in accounting and from State University of New York at Albany with an undergraduate degree in accounting.

 

90. Jill Jacobs
Mercy Health, Chief Operating Officer
University of Northwestern Ohio

Jill Jacobs is the Chief Operating Officer of Mercy Health. Mercy Health is a Cincinnati-based Catholic health care system with locations in Ohio and Kentucky. It is the largest health system in Ohio and the state's fourth-largest employer. Jacobs has over 17 years in the hospital and healthcare field.

Earlier in her career Jacobs worked with Blanchard Valley Health System as a Director of Cardiovascular Services. Jacobs graduated from the University of Northwestern Ohio with an MBA and from Bowling Green State University with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

91. Beth Oliver
Mount Sinai Health System, Chief Nursing Executive and Senior Vice President of Cardiac Services
Case Western Reserve University

Beth Oliver is the Chief Nursing Executive and Senior Vice President of Cardiac Services of Mount Sinai Health System. The Mount Sinai Health System is an integrated health system committed to providing distinguished care, conducting transformative research, and advancing biomedical education. Oliver has 21 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 2000.

Before joining Mount Sinai Health System, Oliver was an associate executive director for cardiovascular services at Lenox Hill Hospital. Earlier in her career she worked with The Mount Sinai Hospital as a clinical nurse manager. Oliver graduated from Case Western Reserve University with a doctorate in nursing, from Columbia University in the City of New York with an MSN, and from the University of Massachusetts Boston with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

92. David Carlson
Hospital Sisters Health System, Chief Physician Executive
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

David Carlson is the Chief Physician Executive of Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS). HSHS is a multi-institutional health care system that cares for patients in 14 communities in Illinois and Wisconsin. With 15 hospitals, several community-based health centers and clinics, nearly 2,300 physician partners, and more than 14,600 employees, HSHS is committed to its mission “to reveal and embody Christ’s healing love for all people through high quality Franciscan health care ministry”.

Carlson graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine with a DO.

 

93. Joan Simon
Kootenai Health, Chief Nursing Officer
Central Michigan University

Joan Simon is the Chief Nursing Officer of Kootenai Health. Kootenai Health provides comprehensive medical services to patients in northern Idaho and throughout the Inland Northwest. Its main campus is located in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho and includes a 330-bed community-owned hospital.

Previously, Simon was a chief operating officer at Tenet Healthcare and before that a chief nursing officer at St. Vincent Medical Center. Earlier in her career she worked with Mount Clemens Regional Medical Center as a senior vice president of clinical services and strategic planning. Simon earned a master’s degree in health and healthcare administration & management from Central Michigan University, an undergraduate degree in health and healthcare administration & management from Ferris State University, and an undergraduate degree in nursing from Grand Canyon University.

 

94. Mike Long
AmerisourceBergen, President of Pharmacy Healthcare Solutions
West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Mike Long began his professional career 32 years ago. Today, he is the President of Pharmacy Healthcare Solutions of AmerisourceBergen. AmerisourceBergen fosters a positive impact on the health of people and communities around the world by advancing the development and delivery of pharmaceuticals and healthcare products.

In 1989 Long served as an area vice president for national health at Siemens Medical Solutions. From there, he rose to national vice president at Carestream Health, his most recent position prior to joining AmerisourceBergen. Long graduated from West Chester University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in economics.

 

95. Victor Lawhorn
AdventHealth, Chief Financial Officer
Rollins College

Victor Lawhorn began his professional career over 16 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Financial Officer of Managed Care with AdventHealth. AdventHealth is a faith-based, non-profit health care system that operates facilities within nine states across the United States. The Adventist Health System was rebranded AdventHealth in 2019.

In 2005 Lawhorn was a finance director at Adventist Health System before moving on to become the CFO of the Metroplex Health System. Lawhorn graduated from Rollins College - Crummer Graduate School of Business with an MBA.

 

96. Pamela Hermon
Lakeview Village, Chief Operating Officer
Labette Community College

Pamela Hermon began her professional career 20 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Operating Officer of Lakeview Village, a leading and largest Continuing Care Retirement Community in Kansas. Its range of services includes independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, in-home care and rehabilitation services, as well as a variety of amenities and support services for people 62 and older.

In 2001 Hermon was a director of nursing services at Aberdeen Village. From there, she went on to Brandon Woods where she was the director of nursing. Hermon graduated from Labette Community College with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

97. Bonita Veal
Anaheim Global Medical Center, Chief Nursing Officer
California State University

Bonita Veal began her professional career over 8 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Nursing Officer of Anaheim Global Medical Center in California. Anaheim Global Medical Center is a 189-bed acute care facility that has been serving Anaheim and its surrounding communities for nearly 40 years. The hospital offers a wide range of medical expertise and advanced technology for the entire family.

Before joining Anaheim Global Medical Center, Bonita was a chief nursing officer at Victor Valley Global Medical Center. Veal graduated from California State University-Long Beach with a master’s degree in nursing and from the University of Phoenix with an MBA.

 

98. Kenji Fujita
Atsena Therapeutics, Chief Medical Officer
Harvard University

Kenji Fujita began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Medical Officer of Atsena Therapeutics. Atsena Therapeutics is a clinical-stage gene therapy company focused on bringing the life-changing power of genetic medicine to reverse or prevent blindness.

Fujita first got his start in 2000 as a junior engagement manager at McKinsey & Company. From there, he went on to New York Presbyterian Hospital, before eventually rising to an assistant professor for clinical medicine at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, his most recent position prior to joining Atsena Therapeutics. Fujita graduated from Harvard Medical School with an MD and from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry.

 

99. Linzi O'Laughlin
Nursing Beyond Borders, President
University of Missouri

Linzi O'Laughlin is the President of Nursing Beyond Borders. Nursing Beyond Borders is a 501(c)3 public charity which exists to deliver preventative healthcare and education to children and their communities on a global scale. O'Laughlin has over 13 years of experience in the hospital and healthcare field. She began her career in 2008.

Before joining Nursing Beyond Borders, O'Laughlin was a registered nurse at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and before that a PACU registered nurse at UCLA Health. Earlier in her career she also worked with Children’s Mercy Hospital as a registered nurse. O'Laughlin graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with an undergraduate degree in nursing.

 

100. Justine Alipio
Rush University Medical Center, President for the Professional Nursing Staff
Loyola University

Justine Alipio is the President for the Professional Nursing Staff of Rush University Medical Center. She first joined the company in 2015 as critical care RN. Rush University Medical Center is an academic medical center, home to one of the first medical colleges in the Midwest and one of the nation's top-ranked nursing colleges, as well as graduate programs in allied health, health systems management and biomedical research.

Earlier in her career she worked with Loyola University Medical Center as an RN. Alipio earned an undergraduate degree in nursing from Loyola University Chicago - Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing.