Adventist Health Executive and Leadership Team

Gwen Matthews, the Chief Executive Officer, Ukiah Valley Medical Center & Senior VP, Operations AH Northern Cal Network at Adventist Health, provides executive leadership for key operational areas within Northern California. This multifaceted role involves directing the strategic vision and operational execution for Ukiah Valley Medical Center while also overseeing broader operational initiatives across the Northern California network. Matthews is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care, driving operational efficiency, and fostering growth within the designated regions. The Chief Executive Officer, Ukiah Valley Medical Center & Senior VP, Operations AH Northern Cal Network's duties include managing budgets, leading clinical teams, and implementing strategies that align with Adventist Health's overall mission. Gwen Matthews's leadership is critical for enhancing healthcare services and community impact in Northern California. Matthews champions operational excellence and patient-centered care.

Walt Larsen, the Chief Financial Officer at Adventist Health, directs the organization's financial strategy and fiscal operations. This leadership role involves managing all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation to support the health system's mission across the West Coast and Hawaii. Larsen oversees the financial health of the organization, ensuring sustainable growth and operational efficiency. By implementing robust financial controls and driving fiscal discipline, Larsen safeguards the organization's assets and optimizes revenue streams. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to capital management, investment strategies, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. This executive's oversight is critical for maintaining the long-term viability and expansion of Adventist Health's services in over 80 communities. Walt Larsen's expertise ensures that financial resources are strategically deployed to advance patient care and community well-being.

Jack Wagner, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP at Adventist Health, provides critical financial leadership and strategic oversight for the organization. This dual role encompasses managing the financial health of the integrated health system and contributing to its senior leadership team's strategic direction. Wagner oversees financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation, ensuring fiscal responsibility across operations serving communities on the West Coast and Hawaii. The Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP's responsibilities include driving financial performance, managing capital investments, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. By maintaining robust financial controls and optimizing financial strategies, Jack Wagner supports Adventist Health's mission to deliver compassionate care. Wagner's expertise is essential for the sustained growth and operational effectiveness of the health system.

Timothy Karagounis, the Chief Operating Officer at Adventist Health, directs the day-to-day operations of the integrated health system across its extensive network. This leadership position involves overseeing the efficient delivery of healthcare services in over 80 communities on the West Coast and in Hawaii. Karagounis is responsible for optimizing operational workflows, enhancing patient care delivery, and ensuring the effective management of hospital facilities and clinical departments. The Chief Operating Officer's duties include driving operational excellence, implementing best practices, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization. By managing resources effectively and streamlining processes, Karagounis ensures that Adventist Health can meet the diverse healthcare needs of the populations it serves. Timothy Karagounis's strategic oversight is crucial for maintaining high standards of care and operational integrity.

Willie Ewing, the Chief of Staff at Adventist Health, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the executive leadership team. This role involves facilitating communication and alignment across various departments and initiatives within the integrated health system. Ewing manages key projects and drives the execution of strategic priorities, ensuring that organizational goals are met efficiently. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive communications, coordinating board meetings, and acting as a liaison between different levels of the organization. By streamlining operations and enhancing executive effectiveness, Ewing contributes directly to the health system's mission of serving communities on the West Coast and Hawaii. Willie Ewing's focus is on optimizing organizational performance and supporting the Chief Executive Officer's vision for Adventist Health.

Peggy Nakamura, the Chief Revenue Officer at Adventist Health, spearheads strategies to maximize revenue generation and optimize financial performance across the health system. This executive role focuses on enhancing revenue cycle management, identifying new income streams, and ensuring the financial sustainability of services provided in over 80 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii. Nakamura oversees all aspects of revenue generation, from patient billing and collections to payer contract negotiations and market expansion initiatives. The Chief Revenue Officer's responsibilities include analyzing market trends, developing pricing strategies, and implementing programs to improve financial outcomes. By driving revenue growth and operational efficiency, Peggy Nakamura plays a vital role in supporting Adventist Health's mission to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare. Nakamura's leadership ensures the financial strength necessary for continued service delivery.

William Kilmer, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Adventist Health, leads the strategic direction and operational execution of all human resources functions. This executive role is pivotal in managing the health system's workforce, which spans over 80 communities on the West Coast and in Hawaii. Kilmer oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and employee relations to foster a supportive and high-performing work environment. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities include developing and implementing HR policies that align with Adventist Health's faith-based mission and values. By focusing on employee engagement and organizational culture, Kilmer ensures that the health system attracts and retains top talent. William Kilmer's leadership is instrumental in building a dedicated team committed to providing exceptional patient care and advancing the organization's strategic objectives.

Jennifer Stewart, the Vice Chief of Staff at Adventist Health, supports the Chief of Staff in driving strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the health system. This role involves assisting in the coordination of executive-level projects and ensuring seamless communication between leadership and various operational units serving communities on the West Coast and Hawaii. Stewart contributes to the development and implementation of organizational strategies, focusing on enhancing operational performance and supporting the overall mission of Adventist Health. The Vice Chief of Staff's responsibilities include facilitating meetings, managing key communications, and providing analytical support for executive decision-making. By collaborating closely with the Chief of Staff, Jennifer Stewart helps to optimize the effectiveness of the leadership team and advance the health system's goals. Stewart's contributions are vital to maintaining organizational alignment and driving progress.

Cheri McCall, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Adventist Health, directs comprehensive human resources strategies to support the organization's mission and workforce. This executive position focuses on cultivating a positive and productive work environment for employees across the health system's extensive network serving the West Coast and Hawaii. McCall oversees critical HR functions including talent management, employee engagement, organizational development, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities involve developing policies and programs that attract, retain, and develop a skilled and dedicated workforce. By championing employee well-being and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion, Cheri McCall plays a key role in the success of Adventist Health. McCall's leadership ensures that the human capital strategy effectively supports the delivery of high-quality patient care.

Paul Welch, the Chief Medical Officer at Adventist Health, provides essential clinical leadership and strategic guidance for the integrated health system. This role is critical in ensuring the highest standards of medical care and patient safety across all facilities serving communities on the West Coast and in Hawaii. Welch oversees clinical operations, quality improvement initiatives, and the development of medical policies and procedures. The Chief Medical Officer's responsibilities include collaborating with physicians and healthcare professionals to enhance patient outcomes and drive clinical excellence. By championing evidence-based practices and fostering a culture of continuous learning, Paul Welch supports Adventist Health's commitment to providing compassionate and effective healthcare. Welch's expertise is vital for maintaining clinical integrity and advancing the health system's medical mission.