Catholic Health’s St. Joseph Hospital Appoints New President

Catholic Health’s St. Joseph Hospital (Bethpage, NY) has named Christopher Nelson, MBA, its new president effective October 17, 2022. Nelson will oversee all areas of operations at St. Joseph Hospital, with a particular focus on executing strategies for growth, continued improvement in quality and patient experience, while boosting employee engagement and workforce development.

“I’m excited to join Catholic Health at a time where the system and hospital, both deeply rooted in its community, are experiencing great transformation and are positioned for immense growth,” said Nelson. “I am looking forward to working with Catholic Health’s and St. Joseph’s leadership teams to continue the innovative work that’s already in the pipeline, while focusing on continuing to deliver the highest quality care to all we serve.”

A seasoned health care executive, Nelson brings many years of experience in administrative leadership. Most recently, he served as vice president of operations for NYU Langone Hospital – Long Island (formerly Winthrop-University Hospital). There he was responsible for all aspects of integration, inclusive of safety, quality, strategy alignment, capital planning, financial performance and patient experience. Under his leadership, the hospital made major improvements in key performing indicators. Prior to that, Nelson served as the hospital’s vice president of administration for surgery and cardiac services.

“Chris is an experienced health care leader who knows what it takes to deliver the highest level of care to Long Islanders,” said Catholic Health Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Dennis Verzi, DPT, MHA, FACHCA. “We’re excited to have Chris join our Catholic Health family and look forward to the strong leadership he’ll bring to St. Joseph Hospital.”

Nelson began his career in health care in the U.S. Navy Hospital Corps, holding several leadership positions, stationed around the globe, and receiving numerous awards including the Joint Service Commendation Medal.

Nelson earned a Master of Business Administration from Long Island University, C.W. Post campus and a Bachelor of Science in health care management from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. He currently resides in Bay Shore with his wife.