Joel Ray is Chief Clinical Advisor at Laudio, where he helps health systems strengthen leadership practices through data, coaching, and technology. A nationally respected nursing leader and former Chief Nursing Officer, he has more than four decades of experience spanning bedside care, hospital operations, and executive management. Before joining Laudio, he served as Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at UNC Rex Healthcare, where the hospital earned its fourth Magnet designation and national quality recognition. A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, Joel brings a mission-driven approach to leadership development and workforce sustainability.
Nancy W. Gaden, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN is Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Boston Medical Center, where she has led since 2014. She guided BMC through a major campus consolidation and to its first Magnet® designation in 2021. A recipient of the ANA Massachusetts President’s Award and the New England Organization of Nurse Leaders’ Excellence in Leadership Award, she is widely recognized for advancing clinical excellence and nursing innovation. Nancy previously served as CNO at Hallmark Health System and St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and past President of the New England Organization of Nurse Leaders.
Nurse managers care for the people who care for the patients and families. When they feel overwhelmed, unsupported, or sidelined by bureaucracy, the ripple effect touches every corner of care delivery.