Katherine (Kathy) Hefner has accepted the position of chief nursing officer for St. Luke’s Hospital.

Prior to joining St. Luke’s, Hefner served in the CNO role for eight years at Mission Hospital-McDowell in Marion. Her nursing leadership experience also includes serving as nursing unit manager and director of medical cardiac services within the Mission Health System. 

“Kathy has lived in this region of western North Carolina and worked in various healthcare, professional, community, church and volunteer roles within her community,” said CEO Jim Bross. “St. Luke’s is delighted to have her join our team and eager to have access to her wealth of healthcare knowledge and expertise.”

Hefner’s selection followed a lengthy search and screening process. Select St. Luke’s Hospital teammates, board and medical staff members participated in an inclusive interview process. 

Hefner was selected from a large pool of applicants, and was one of four finalists for this position.

“I learned from the interview process that St. Luke’s is a place I can provide clinical service and leadership with the team, as we focus on meeting the needs of the communities we serve,” Hefner  said. “I look forward to serving our patients and working with the healthcare professionals at St. Luke’s.” 

Hefner attended Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing and Winston Salem University. She received a Master’s of Science in nursing degree with a focus on nursing administration from Western Carolina University.

In the CNO position, Hefner is responsible for nursing services, perioperative services, respiratory and rehab services as well as the new hospital-based centers for pain treatment and chemo/infusion care.

“I’m excited to join St. Luke’s Hospital and look forward to continuing the hard work of providing an exceptional patient experience, with quality and safety at the forefront,” Hefner said. “St. Luke’s has a reputation for providing exceptional care, and I’m proud to be a part of the great team here.”

– Submitted by St. Luke’s Hospital