Memorial Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Memorial Health System Hospital has 9 executives leading key functions including medical oversight and operational execution.

Driven by a commitment to patient care, Memorial is dedicated to advancing healthcare services within the Gulfport, Mississippi region, fostering a culture of clinical excellence and community well-being.

Leadership Roles at Memorial

  • Chief Medical Officer - Shawn Dufford
  • Do - William Cullinane
  • Do - Benjamin Dahlberg
  • Do - Matthew Ballew
  • Do - Jonathan Mihnovets
  • Do - Mario Cuzzi
  • Do - Nichole Love-Grove
  • Do - Jared Vinson
  • Do - Jessie Martin
  • Shawn Dufford - Chief Medical Officer

    Shawn Dufford, the Chief Medical Officer at Memorial, directs clinical strategy and ensures the highest standards of patient care across all departments. Overseeing medical staff operations, Dufford champions evidence-based practices and fosters a collaborative environment for physicians and healthcare professionals. This leadership role involves enhancing clinical outcomes and patient safety initiatives, directly impacting the quality of services provided by Memorial Health System Hospital. By optimizing treatment protocols and driving medical innovation, Shawn Dufford ensures the hospital remains at the forefront of healthcare delivery in Gulfport, Mississippi. Dufford's strategic vision guides the medical team in achieving operational excellence and maintaining a patient-centric approach to healthcare.
    Shawn Dufford

    William Cullinane - Do

    William Cullinane, the Do at Memorial, oversees critical operational functions within the hospital's health system. Cullinane's responsibilities include managing departmental workflows and ensuring efficient resource allocation to support patient care delivery. This role is pivotal in maintaining the smooth operation of Memorial Health System Hospital, aligning daily activities with the organization's strategic objectives. By focusing on process improvement and operational integrity, William Cullinane contributes to the overall effectiveness and service quality of the healthcare institution. Cullinane's leadership ensures that the hospital's infrastructure supports its mission of providing comprehensive medical services to the Gulfport, Mississippi community.

    Benjamin Dahlberg - Do

    Benjamin Dahlberg, the Do at Memorial, drives key initiatives related to the hospital's service expansion and market presence. Dahlberg's focus includes developing strategies to enhance patient access to specialized medical services and strengthening community partnerships. This position is crucial for the growth and sustainability of Memorial Health System Hospital, ensuring its services meet the evolving healthcare needs of the region. By identifying opportunities for service line development and operational enhancement, Benjamin Dahlberg supports the hospital's mission to deliver accessible and high-quality care. Dahlberg's strategic input guides the organization in its efforts to broaden its impact within Gulfport, Mississippi.

    Matthew Ballew - Do

    Matthew Ballew, the Do at Memorial, leads efforts in financial oversight and resource management for the health system. Ballew's role involves ensuring fiscal responsibility and optimizing revenue cycles to support the hospital's operational needs and strategic investments. This position is essential for the financial health and long-term viability of Memorial Health System Hospital, enabling continued investment in advanced medical technologies and patient care programs. By implementing robust financial controls and driving efficiency, Matthew Ballew safeguards the organization's resources. Ballew's expertise contributes to the hospital's ability to provide essential healthcare services to the Gulfport, Mississippi community.

    Jonathan Mihnovets - Do

    Jonathan Mihnovets, the Do at Memorial, spearheads initiatives focused on quality improvement and patient safety across the healthcare system. Mihnovets' responsibilities include developing and implementing protocols that enhance clinical outcomes and minimize risks to patient well-being. This role is fundamental to upholding the standards of excellence at Memorial Health System Hospital, ensuring that all care provided meets rigorous quality benchmarks. By championing best practices and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Jonathan Mihnovets directly contributes to patient satisfaction and trust. Mihnovets' dedication ensures the hospital delivers safe, effective, and compassionate care to the Gulfport, Mississippi population.

    Mario Cuzzi - Do

    Mario Cuzzi, the Do at Memorial, directs strategic planning and business development for the health system. Cuzzi's focus involves identifying growth opportunities, forging key partnerships, and aligning organizational goals with market demands. This leadership position is vital for the sustained expansion and competitive positioning of Memorial Health System Hospital within the healthcare landscape. By evaluating new service lines and market trends, Mario Cuzzi ensures the hospital remains adaptable and responsive to community needs. Cuzzi's strategic foresight guides the organization in enhancing its service offerings and overall reach in Gulfport, Mississippi.

    Nichole Love-Grove - Do

    Nichole Love-Grove, the Do at Memorial, oversees human resources and talent management functions for the hospital system. Love-Grove's responsibilities include developing strategies for employee recruitment, retention, and professional development to support the organization's mission. This role is critical for cultivating a skilled and engaged workforce at Memorial Health System Hospital, ensuring the delivery of exceptional patient care. By fostering a positive work environment and implementing effective HR policies, Nichole Love-Grove contributes to the overall operational strength and employee satisfaction. Love-Grove's leadership ensures the hospital has the dedicated personnel necessary to serve the Gulfport, Mississippi community.

    Jared Vinson - Do

    Jared Vinson, the Do at Memorial, leads information technology and digital transformation initiatives for the health system. Vinson's focus includes implementing advanced technological solutions to improve operational efficiency, enhance patient data security, and support clinical decision-making. This role is paramount to the modernization of Memorial Health System Hospital, ensuring its technological infrastructure is robust and future-ready. By driving innovation in areas such as electronic health records and telehealth services, Jared Vinson enhances the hospital's capacity to deliver integrated and accessible care. Vinson's expertise supports the hospital's commitment to leveraging technology for better patient outcomes in Gulfport, Mississippi.

    Jessie Martin - Do

    Jessie Martin, the Do at Memorial, manages legal affairs and regulatory compliance for the healthcare system. Martin's responsibilities encompass ensuring adherence to all relevant healthcare laws and industry standards, mitigating legal risks, and advising on corporate governance matters. This position is vital for maintaining the integrity and operational compliance of Memorial Health System Hospital. By providing expert legal counsel and overseeing risk management strategies, Jessie Martin protects the organization's interests and upholds its commitment to ethical practices. Martin's diligence ensures the hospital operates within legal frameworks while providing essential services to the Gulfport, Mississippi community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Memorial Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Memorial?
    Memorial is led by Shawn Dufford (Chief Medical Officer), along with executives such as William Cullinane (Do) and Benjamin Dahlberg (Do).
    Who is part of Memorial’s executive team?
    The executive team of Memorial includes leaders such as Shawn Dufford (Chief Medical Officer), William Cullinane (Do), Benjamin Dahlberg (Do) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Memorial have?
    Memorial has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Memorial’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Memorial includes roles such as Chief Medical Officer, Do, Do, Do, Do.