OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center Appoints New Chief Nursing Officer

OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center has announced the appointment of Kristin Gardner, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, CENP, as its new chief nursing officer.

In her role as CNO, Dr. Gardner will oversee nursing practice and nursing services for the hospital, including clinical operations, quality of patient care and the safety of both patients and associates. 

Gardner brings 25 years of experience in community hospital settings, where she has focused on building strong relationships, leading complex clinical operations, and engaging patients and families. Most recently, she served as chief nursing officer at OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital in Athens, a role she held for three years. Prior to that, Gardner was CNO at OhioHealth Berger Hospital in Circleville for eight years.

“Kristin brings deep expertise in nursing leadership, healthcare delivery and OhioHealth’s commitment to community-based care,” said Wendy Elliott, president of OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center. “Her experience and passion for local healthcare make her a strong leader for our hospital and the community we serve.”

 “I’m excited to begin building relationships with our associates and providers while getting to know the Cambridge community,” Gardner said. “A key priority for me is ensuring every person who comes through our doors has a positive experience. Whether they are patients, families, providers or associates, everyone deserves compassionate, high-quality care, every time.”

Gardner succeeds former Southeastern Medical Center chief nursing officer Gina Woods, who joined OhioHealth Grant Medical Center in late 2025.