Mount Carmel Health System in Central Ohio has appointed Tauana McDonald, FACHE, as its new President and CEO. McDonald, who will officially take on her new role on July 1, 2024, becomes the first African American woman to lead the health system in its 138-year history. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the health system and for the broader Central Ohio community.
A Trailblazer in Healthcare Leadership
Tauana McDonald’s appointment as Mount Carmel’s President and CEO is historic. Not only does she break new ground as the first African American woman in this position, but she also becomes the first person to lead the health system in over a century. This move is seen as a recognition of her leadership and dedication to healthcare excellence.
In a statement, Ben Carter, Trinity Health’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, praised McDonald’s leadership skills, calling her “a dynamic leader well-poised to lead Mount Carmel into the next chapters of success.” He also highlighted McDonald’s instrumental role in the turnaround of Mount Carmel’s financial, quality, and cultural efforts.
A Proven Track Record in Healthcare Management
McDonald has been with Trinity Health since 2003, where she quickly rose through the ranks due to her results-driven leadership and strategic vision. Her career in healthcare management spans multiple roles and responsibilities, each time transforming large-scale operations within the health system.
In 2017, McDonald took on the newly created position of Chief Administrative Officer at Mount Carmel, where she successfully led initiatives to align operating models and foster partnerships that strengthened the health system. Her contributions were especially notable in 2020 when she was promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer of Mount Carmel Grove City. Under her leadership, Mount Carmel not only stabilized but also grew, even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Commitment to Serving the Central Ohio Community
McDonald’s new role as President and CEO will allow her to continue her commitment to the people of Central Ohio. In her announcement, McDonald expressed her excitement for this opportunity, stating, “I’m thrilled to begin this new role and continue partnering with our incredible colleagues and staff in building on the momentum we’ve created here at Mount Carmel.” She emphasized her dedication to the health system’s mission and her love for the Columbus community, which she now calls home.
Her career highlights include earning a bachelor’s degree in human biology from Stanford University and a master’s degree in health service management and policy from the University of Michigan. McDonald is also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, which reflects her commitment to excellence in healthcare leadership.
Recognition and Achievements
McDonald’s accomplishments extend beyond her professional roles. She has served on several influential boards, including the Mount Carmel Behavioral Health Hospital and the Mid-Ohio Food Collective. Additionally, McDonald has been recognized with numerous awards, including Lifeline of Ohio’s 2023 Executive of the Year and a spot on Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Minority Executives list in 2016.
Her dedication to the healthcare industry and her leadership in driving innovation have made her a respected figure in healthcare management. McDonald’s appointment as CEO marks another significant achievement in her already impressive career.
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