Southern New Hampshire Health announces Susan Santana as a new member of its executive leadership team in the role of Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer for Southern New Hampshire Medical Center (SNHMC). Dedicated to the practice of nursing for more than 30 years, Susan brings a wealth of nursing experience paired with demonstrated leadership to SNHMC. She began her post as Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer on January 31, 2022.
“It is an honor to join Southern New Hampshire Medical Center. I am extremely impressed with the dedication of the providers and staff, along with the organization-wide commitment to high quality patient care,” Susan said. “During the past few weeks, I’ve witnessed an amazing culture of teamwork that is filled with care and compassion for the work that they do. I’m thrilled to be a part of the team and I look forward to continued growth in nursing excellence.”
Prior to joining Southern New Hampshire Health, Susan served in several progressive leadership roles for Lowell General Hospital—most recently as their Associate Chief Nursing Officer with extensive oversight of its nursing practice. During Susan’s tenure at Lowell, she led their initial Magnet® designation as well as re-designation efforts that built a strong nursing culture. SNHMC is also a Magnet® designated facility, having achieved this distinction four times. Susan’s experience with the program will help to ensure future success and continued recognition of nursing excellence. Susan is a transformational leader who is best known for her passion in supporting the work environment for all health care workers and creating a culture of shared decision making. The breadth of Susan’s experience throughout the nursing profession offers valuable knowledge and perspective for her role with SNHMC.
“I am pleased to welcome Susan to our team. She has a very impressive list of accomplishments as a nursing leader, including being a compassionate leader who is visible, accessible, and approachable. Her professional passion to create a culture that empowers the voice of nursing and achieve outcomes that benefit staff and patients alike, will serve our community well,” said Tom Wilhelmsen, Interim President of Southern New Hampshire Health. “Susan is transitioning into our organization quickly, and I am confident that she will continue her career as a very successful nursing leader.”
Susan is a certified Nurse Executive from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned her Master of Science Degree in Nursing and Master’s in Business Administration with a focus in organizational leadership from Rivier University. She is also finishing her Doctorate in Nursing Practice and is anticipating graduation this Spring.