- AdventHealth
Three AdventHealth leaders were recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as “Women Hospital Presidents and CEOs to Know.” Those featured on the 2023 list “are responsible for growing their hospitals, fostering positive workforce cultures, expanding services and facilities, increasing provider and patient satisfaction levels, and more,” Becker’s stated.
For the crucial role they play in the successes of their respective organizations, Becker’s honored:
Audrey Gregory, PhD, RN, president and CEO for AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division – North Region. Described by others as a dynamic and transformational leader, Gregory oversees the strategic direction, development and execution of key strategies that support the total network of care in Flagler, Lake and Volusia counties.
Gregory is known as a champion of health equity and for her commitment to ensuring all members of a community have access to equitable health care. Before joining AdventHealth in 2021, Gregory served as the group chief executive officer for Detroit Medical Center, a regional health care system that operates eight hospitals and institutes.
Penny Johnson, president and CEO for AdventHealth’s Southwest Region and Texas Health Huguley Hospital Fort Worth South. With AdventHealth since 2002, Johnson served in various financial leadership roles at several AdventHealth facilities, including at the corporate level as senior vice president of finance. In her current role since 2020, Johnson guides AdventHealth’s Texas campuses in fulfilling the organization’s mission of providing whole-person care.
Johnson’s passion for mission extends into the communities served by AdventHealth, as evidenced by her recent recognition from the American Heart Association as the 2023 Tarrant County Woman of Impact Award Winner.
Jennifer Wandersleben, president and CEO of AdventHealth’s Heartland Region. Wandersleben brought with her more than two decades of experience with AdventHealth to a newly expanded Heartland region. The region, which includes three counties in the central part of Florida, was designed to improve access to care and strengthen the network for patients, ultimately improving the overall health of the communities served.
Having overseen numerous hospital projects, Wandersleben’s experience aligns well with the opportunities a new and expanded region presents to innovate and transform the care experience for patients and the community to feel whole.
“With women at the helm,” Becker’s noted, “hospitals are benefitting from diverse perspectives, enhanced patient experiences and improved health equity.”
To see the complete list of female hospital executives honored by Becker’s, click here.
Recent News
Mother, daughter pursue nursing careers through education partnership
Family story highlights how AdventHealth’s dynamic learning community helps shape the next generation of nurses.
Amid rapid population growth, AdventHealth plans a new hospital in The Villages to bring care closer to residents
The project is expected to expand access to emergency and hospital services in one of Florida’s fastest-growing regions.
Nurses surprise cancer patient with vow renewal ceremony honoring 43rd wedding anniversary
Care team at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach helps couple continue decades-long vow renewal tradition.
A nurse’s calling: Charity Carlisle on growing the next generation
With nearly 25 years at AdventHealth, Charity Carlisle reflects on compassionate, whole-person care and the joy of growing the next generation of nurses.
Nurse-led effort brings inclusive hair care to patients at AdventHealth for Women and Children
Nurse-led effort brings more inclusive hair care options to the bedside, helping patients feel more comfortable, confident and cared for during their time in the hospital.
Students with disabilities graduate from hands-on hospital training program
Three students gained hands-on hospital experience, workplace confidence and new opportunities for independence through a partnership program supporting young adults with disabilities.
A nurse’s quiet act of compassion brings comfort to a grieving family
On a quiet morning in DeLand, before the day shift began and long after a night shift ended, a quiet act of care took place at a gravesite.
A waitress dreamed of being a nurse. Then the right person sat at her table.
Devon Burkhalter was waiting tables when an AdventHealth nursing executive sat at her table and asked her: "Have you ever thought about being a nurse?"
Honoring extraordinary nurses making a meaningful difference at the bedside
AdventHealth honors two nurses as 2026 "Nurse of the Year" for compassionate, whole-person care in Dade City and Zephyrhills.
A second chance and a new purpose
For Jonathon Miller, volunteering at AdventHealth Porter is more than giving back, it’s a continuation of a life he nearly lost.
AdventHealth Littleton relaunches Forensic Nursing Program
AdventHealth Littleton is proud to relaunch the Forensic Nursing Program, which provides specialized, trauma-informed care to patients who have experienced violence.
Nurse comforts patients during cancer treatment with crocheted dinosaurs
On the 1 North Oncology unit at AdventHealth Porter, Samantha Klepper, RN, brings more than clinical care to her patients. She brings comfort, connection, and a small crocheted reminder that they are...