South Division Chief Executive Laureen Driscoll, RN, to depart Providence

Dear senior leaders, 

After many years of service to Providence that date back to her first job with Swedish in 2010, Laureen Driscoll, RN, has shared her decision to leave her role as chief executive for the South Division. While I am personally saddened to see her depart our ministry, I am proud of Laureen for responding to the call to serve as the new chief executive officer for a leading healthcare system in the eastern U.S. I know Laureen’s time with Providence has prepared her well for this next step in her career, and I will be cheering her on and wishing her every success as she pursues this new opportunity.

Laureen, a true servant leader, has been a highly effective leader while inspiring her teams to bring their best in service to our patients and those who care for them. She has been a strategic partner to me and I have benefited greatly from her wisdom since taking on my role as Providence’s chief operating officer.

Laureen will be with us through the end of the year and will support the transition process. In the meantime, we will begin a national search for the next South Division chief executive. 

To ensure continuity during our search process, former longtime Providence executive Lisa Vance will come out of retirement to lead the South Division on an interim basis. Before retiring in 2023, Lisa served as Providence’s president of operations and strategy for Alaska, Oregon, Washington and Montana. I am deeply grateful to Lisa for pausing her retirement to put her considerable skills and experience to use on behalf of our ministries in California during this time of change. With Lisa’s partnership, I will also support the transition period and ensure our physicians and caregivers continue to have the resources and attention they need.

Please join me in thanking Laureen for her many contributions and in wishing her well in this exciting new chapter of her career. She is a true person of Providence who will be dearly missed. Laureen’s personal reflection on her time with us can be found below.

Darryl Elmouchi, M.D.
Chief Operating Officer

Laureen’s personal reflection 

I can honestly say this is the most difficult message I’ve had to write in my years with Providence. Being part of an organization whose Mission and values resonate so deeply with my own, and bringing such meaning and purpose to my work, is a blessing I will always hold deep in my heart.

When I assumed the role of South Division chief executive, our Sisters entrusted me with their living legacy. It was a humbling responsibility deeply rooted in history. During the past four years, I have learned from it, leaned into it, and strived to embody our Mission and values in every decision I made. With the guidance of our Sisters and South Division board, this journey helped shape the leader I am today.

Each of you has been part of my journey. You’ve enriched my professional growth and inspired me with your authentic desire to serve others with love and compassion. As I rounded at our ministries, I saw our values in action as you saved lives and improved the health of our communities. This filled my heart with hope and joy. I know our Mission offers great meaning in your work. Let it continue to guide you as you care for patients, families and each other. 

Because of our shared journey, I know I’m ready for the next chapter. I will hold each of you in my prayers and will always be grateful for the time we spent serving our ministry together.

With love and deep gratitude for all that you have taught me,

Laureen