Dawn Alexander, chief nursing officer for DCH Health System, has been named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s Chief Nursing Officers to Know list for 2025—an honor recognizing nursing leaders making a significant impact on healthcare nationwide.
As system CNO, Alexander provides executive leadership for nursing operations across DCH’s three medical centers, overseeing nursing staff and a large nursing budget while supporting critical departments such as the ICU, neonatal ICU, and emergency services.
With more than three decades of leadership experience, Alexander is DCH Health System’s first African American female executive in its 100-year history. Since joining the organization, she has led meaningful improvements including reduced nurse-to-patient ratios, improved RN turnover rates, and increased employee engagement and patient experience.
Alexander’s leadership extends beyond hospital walls. She launched DCH’s first community health fair, which now serves more than 800 attendees annually and helps expand access to health education and preventive services across West Alabama. She has also been recognized by the University of Alabama with the Janet Awtrey Leadership Award for her contributions to nursing excellence.
This national recognition reflects Alexander’s commitment to advancing nursing practice, strengthening the healthcare workforce, and delivering high-quality care to the communities DCH serves.
To view the full list of Becker’s 2025 Chief Nursing Officers to Know, visit Becker’s Hospital Review at:
https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/hospital-management-administration/274-hospital-and-health-system-cnos-to-know-2025/
