Health system appoints new Chief Nursing Officers

HealthPeople

Feb 13

Written By Staff

Carolyn Leja, DNP, MBA, RN, CNM, NE-BC and Nicholas Strait, DNP, MBA HCM, NEA-BC, RN
Photo courtesy of Trinity Health

Trinity Health Grand Rapids has appointed Carolyn Leja as its new Chief Nursing Officer. At the same time, Nicholas Strait has been named Chief Nursing Officer for Trinity Health Muskegon, Shelby, and Grand Haven.

The CNOs provide strategic leadership for nursing practice, professional development, workforce sustainability, and clinical excellence across each location.

“We are excited to welcome Carolyn to Trinity Health Grand Rapids,” said Matt Biersack, President, Trinity Health Grand Rapids. “Her depth of experience from practitioner to CNO will build on the thoughtful, collaborative approach to nursing excellence that Trinity Health is known for.”

Leja brings more than 20 years of progressive nursing and clinical leadership experience, combined with an exceptional academic foundation and sustained practice as an Advanced Practice Provider. She recently served as CNO for Corewell Health West – Big Rapids and Reed City Hospitals, where she held executive accountability for nursing practice and clinical operations across multiple hospital campuses.

“I am excited and honored to be joining Trinity Health and to serve as CNO,” said Leja. “I enthusiastically look forward to partnering with nursing and interdisciplinary colleagues to serve our West Michigan community, innovate, grow a sustainable nursing workforce, and nurture the strong foundation of excellence in nursing practice and clinical care for which Trinity Health Grand Rapids is known.”

Strait provides expertise in clinical operations, strategic planning, Lean methodologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration with more than 20 years of progressive nursing leadership experience in complex healthcare environments.

“Accepting the position is a ‘coming home’ for Nick,” said Gary Allore, President, Trinity Health Muskegon, Shelby and Grand Haven hospitals. “He brings extensive clinical leadership experience, a proven record of operational excellence, and a deep commitment to our mission. We look forward to the insight and energy he will bring as we continue advancing the care and experience, we provide across our Lakeshore hospitals.”

Strait started his nursing career as a Registered Nurse with Trinity Health Muskegon before advancing to Clinical Manager and Director of Medical/Surgical Services. Most recently, Strait served as CNO for Corewell Health West – Gerber Hospital in Fremont and Corewell Health West – Big Rapids and Reed City Hospitals.

“I’m excited to put my skills and experience to work serving the community where I live,” Strait said. “My goal in returning to Trinity Health is to help make Muskegon, Shelby, and Grand Haven the destination for healthcare in West Michigan.”

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