Breaking Barriers: Susan C. Reinhard Makes History as RWJBarnabas Health’s First Female Nurse Chair of the Board of Trustees

RWJBarnabas Health recently named Susan C. Reinhard as the new chair of its Board of Trustees, starting July 1. This is significant as she is the first woman and the first nurse to hold this role within the organization.

Reinhard has been with the board since its inception and served as vice chair since 2022. She has held various positions within committees focused on quality, safety, compliance, and strategic planning and academic affairs. Additionally, she has been part of the board of directors for Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital since 2013, contributing to finance and quality initiatives.

Reinhard is well-known in health and long-term care policy. Her experience ranges from conducting research to driving policy changes. She’s also a visiting professor at the Betty Irene Moore Fellowship for Nurse Leaders and Innovators at the University of California, Davis. Her prior role was as senior vice president at the AARP Public Policy Institute, where she led research in health and economics at various levels.

“I am deeply honored to serve as board chair for the largest academic health system in New Jersey,” Reinhard expressed.

Reinhard succeeds Lester J. Owens, who has been chair since 2022. Owens also played a crucial role as a founding member of the board and was vice chair before his current tenure.

Stepping in as vice chair is James S. Vaccaro, who chaired the finance committee and previously led the board for Monmouth Medical Center. He is the chair and CEO of Manasquan Bank.

This leadership change comes at a time when health systems are increasingly focused on innovative approaches to patient care. According to recent studies, hospitals led by diverse boards often see improved patient outcomes, highlighting the importance of representation in healthcare leadership.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, Reinhard’s expertise could play a vital role in shaping policies that reflect the needs of the community. Her leadership might set a new standard for health organizations aiming for comprehensive, inclusive care.

For more about RWJBarnabas Health, visit their official site here.

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