Becker's is thrilled to honor noteworthy healthcare CNOs. Chief nursing officers are responsible for tackling nurse staffing shortages, managing nursing budgets, and developing professional growth opportunities for up-and-coming nurses.
In addition to overseeing nursing departments at their organizations, CNOs spearhead innovative initiatives to ensure high standards of patient care. These leaders bring a unique combination of clinical expertise and executive leadership skills to their roles.
Lisa Dolan, RN, CNO for Ardent Health (Nashville, Tenn.): As CNO, Ms. Dolan oversees nursing teams at Ardent Health, ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care across 30 hospitals and over 200 care sites. She leads efforts to align nursing policies with the company's mission and regulatory standards, fostering a culture of safety while driving workforce development and quality improvement. Ms. Dolan has spearheaded initiatives that have improved clinical outcomes, reduced readmissions and enhanced patient experience. A strong advocate for professional development, she has established programs aimed at advancing nursing careers, including partnerships with academic institutions and National Council Licensure Examination test prep. Under her leadership, Ardent Health has adopted new technologies, such as virtual nursing and remote patient monitoring, to streamline care delivery and reduce administrative burdens on caregivers.