Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Clinical Services, Community Memorial Hospital
With the organization since: 2022.
In current position since: 2022.
Education: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), infection prevention & environmental safety, Loyola University Chicago, 2016; Bachelor of Science in nursing, SUNY Institute of Technology, 2001; Associate of Applied Science in nursing — Mohawk Valley Community College, 1995.
Career Highlights: Over 20 years of leadership in infection prevention and nursing administration; led statewide COVID-19 outbreak response for CDC Foundation, managing multiple outbreaks and facility consultations; directed infection prevention programs that achieved significant reductions in HAIs (e.g., 75% reduction in CDI, 100% SSI reduction in hips and colon); recipient of multiple awards, including HANYS Pinnacle Award, Peggy Lillis Foundation Leadership Award and Business Journal Excellence in Health Care Award; published in American Journal of Infection Control on competency-based professional development and safety culture in healthcare; current president of Central New York Organization of Nurse Leaders and active leader in APIC at national and chapter levels.
Current Affiliations: — President, Central New York Organization of Nurse Leaders (CNYONL); board member, New York Organization of Nurse Leaders (NYONL); board member, Regional Emergency Medical Services Council (REMSCO); fellow, Association for Professionals in Infection Control & Epidemiology (FAPIC); reviewer, American Journal of Infection Control; active member of APIC Heart of New York Chapter 118.
What is your biggest challenge in your current position? “Balancing the increasing complexity of healthcare regulations and patient safety requirements while ensuring staff engagement and well-being. Leading through rapid changes in clinical practice and technology demands constant adaptability and strong communication.”
What is your greatest strength professionally? “Strategic leadership with a focus on quality improvement and infection prevention. I excel at building collaborative teams, implementing evidence-based practices, and driving measurable outcomes that improve patient safety and organizational performance.”
If you could make one change to the current healthcare system, what would it be? “I would prioritize sustainable staffing models and workforce development. Investing in nurses and clinical teams through education, mentorship, and well-being programs is essential to improving patient outcomes and reducing burnout.”
How do you support the well-being of your team? “I foster a culture of transparency, recognition, and professional growth. This includes open communication, shared governance, and initiatives that promote resilience—such as flexible scheduling, wellness resources, and opportunities for continuing education and advancement.”