Conway Medical Center and CCU Celebrate 2025 Healthcare Leadership Academy Graduates

Conway Medical Center (CMC), in partnership with Coastal Carolina University's (CCU) College of Graduate and Continuing Studies and CMC College of Health and Human Performance, proudly celebrates the graduation of the 2025 Healthcare Leadership Academy (HLA) cohort—marking three years of cultivating emerging healthcare leaders through a program that continues to drive meaningful change across the organization.

Rooted in CMC’s Four Pillars, values, and strategic goals, the eight-month academy blends academic rigor with real-world application. Participants complete four intensive courses and a capstone project designed to address operational challenges and improve patient care. These projects have led to tangible improvements across the organization, enhancing both patient outcomes and hospital efficiency, while enabling CMC to expand services in other critical areas.

“The HLA program is more than leadership training—it’s a catalyst for innovation and growth,” said Jenna DiMarino, Director of Primary Care and Pediatrics and cohort 1 graduate. “It strengthens our workforce, empowers our future leaders, and aligns directly with our mission to deliver exceptional care.”

Courtney Fuller, Clinical Nutrition Manager and cohort 2 graduate, shared how the program helped her advocate for a full-time outpatient dietitian based on community need. “Since hiring, we’ve increased patient visits from 170 annually to 253 in just six months. This program didn’t just help me grow, it helped our entire department make a bigger difference in the lives of the patients we serve.”

Preslee Peeler, Provider Recruiter and Liaison at CMC and cohort 3 graduate, echoed the program’s impact: “The capstone challenged me to think critically, make data-based decisions, and lead with intention. I’m walking away with more clarity, purpose, and a stronger drive to lead in ways that truly matter for patients, providers, and the future of healthcare.” Peeler, a CCU alumna with a B.S. in Public Health, plans to return to pursue her MBA in Health Administration.

Many graduates have since advanced into leadership roles or returned to CCU for further education, reinforcing the program’s role as a launchpad for lifelong learning and professional development.

“At Conway Medical Center, we believe that leadership development is foundational to delivering the highest quality of care,” said Jeff English, CMC Chief Human Resources Officer. “The Healthcare Leadership Academy has become a cornerstone of our employee growth strategy. It empowers our team members to lead with confidence, compassion, and a deep understanding of the challenges facing modern healthcare. Our partnership with Coastal Carolina University has been instrumental in this success. Together, we’re not just investing in individual careers, we’re building a stronger, more resilient organization prepared to meet the evolving needs of our community.”

As CMC and CCU prepare to welcome the fourth cohort, their shared commitment to developing the healthcare leaders of tomorrow remains stronger than ever.

To learn more about this innovative workforce development partnership, contact Matthew C. Tyler at mctyler@coastal.edu or 843.349.2951.