AdventHealth welcomes new leaders to Apopka and East Orlando campuses

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 26, 2025 — AdventHealth has named Brad Hillmon as chief executive officer of AdventHealth Apopka and Michael Mewhirter as chief executive officer of AdventHealth East Orlando. As Florida continues to lead the nation in population growth, AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division remains committed to meeting the evolving needs of Orange County communities by strengthening its presence and expanding access to whole-person care through these strategic leadership appointments.

Brad Hillmon named AdventHealth Apopka CEO

Hillmon brings more than a decade of experience in health care within AdventHealth, most recently serving as chief operating officer (COO) for the Orlando campus.

“Brad’s extensive leadership experience, deep connection to the Apopka community and commitment to whole-person care make him the right leader for AdventHealth Apopka,” said Kari Vargas, CEO of AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division – North Market. “His ability to foster strong teams and focus on operational excellence will allow us to continue to grow services and meet the health care needs of our community.”

Hillmon has been with AdventHealth for 10 years, beginning his career in business development. He later served as vice president and chief operating officer for ambulatory services in the Central Florida Division, before assuming the role of chief operating officer at AdventHealth Orlando. Prior to joining AdventHealth, he spent close to 15 years in building materials manufacturing and distribution.

“Having lived in the Apopka community my entire life, it’s a true privilege to lead this incredible hospital team. I’m excited about the opportunity to grow with our community, build on AdventHealth Apopka’s reputation for compassionate, high-quality care and guide our campus toward becoming the faith-based, consumer-focused hospital our mission calls us to be.”

Hillmon holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Central Florida and a master's degree in business administration from Rollins College. He serves on the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando and Osceola, and is an elder and board member of the Spring Meadows Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Hillmon and his wife have three sons. In his free time, he enjoys cycling, triathlons and hiking.

Michael Mewhirter named CEO of AdventHealth East Orlando

In his new role, Mewhirter will oversee the operations of AdventHealth East Orlando, including the offsite AdventHealth Waterford Lakes ER and AdventHealth Lake Nona ER.

“Michael’s commitment to high-quality care and ability to build and lead strong teams allows us to continue to grow our services, meet our consumers’ needs and be known for whole-person care across our east Orange County communities,” said Doug Harcombe, CEO of AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division – South Market.

As vice president and chief operating officer at AdventHealth Celebration, Mewhirter has led the construction of a state-of-the-art patient tower, and the groundbreaking of the AdventHealth Meadow Woods ER earlier this year. Previously, he held a variety of executive roles throughout his nine-year tenure at Kettering Health, based in Ohio. He started his career serving in progressive finance roles at AdventHealth Celebration and AdventHealth Waterman, before being named to his first executive position as chief financial officer at AdventHealth North Pinellas.

“While I will miss the team at AdventHealth Celebration tremendously, I am humbled to step into this new role and lead AdventHealth East Orlando, as we build upon the strong foundation that exists,” he said. “I look forward to connecting with our team members, providers and community partners to enhance care, expand access and deliver wholeness to the communities we’re privileged to be a part of.”

Mewhirter holds a master’s degree in business administration from Webster University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Union Adventist University. He is a member of the Advisory Board Fellowship and the Executive with Heart chair for the American Heart Association’s 2025 Orlando Heart Walk.