South Division Philanthropy

A Conversation with Laureen Driscoll

In June, we welcomed Laureen Driscoll as the new chief executive of Providence South Division. Laureen quickly began touring our ministries and meeting with our boards, caregivers, providers and donors. She’s attended openings, been a featured speaker at major ministry events and hosted meetings with ministry leadership.

Recently, Kenya caught up with Laureen for a conversation about her impressions so far and her thoughts about the future of Providence South Division.

Kenya: In a very short time, you’ve covered a lot of ground. What’s your biggest takeaway?

Laureen: While each ministry is unique, they all have one thing in common: our culture. All ministers share a vision of delivering great care and creating the best experience possible for our patients and caregivers. Our Providence Promise helps define this vision and provides a path to achieve and sustain it. I’ve found that regardless of who I’m talking to in the Providence family, we are all committed to upholding that promise. I’m inspired and grateful to serve alongside our ministry teams.

Kenya: Building on the powerful foundation of the Providence Promise, what are you prioritizing for 2024?

Laureen: I recently hosted divisional leaders and chief executives at a 2024 planning retreat. My favorite part of the retreat was the group discussion on the Providence Promise and how it gives meaning and purpose to our work. I shared with the group that the division’s 2024 strategic priorities will remain unchanged. We will continue to focus on the Providence Promise, patient and caregiver journeys, high-value care, community health, care delivery and clinical optimization and an integrated delivery network. We’re also bringing NorCal and SoCal priorities together for 2024.

Kenya: You are a terrific philanthropy partner! What are some of the ways you see philanthropy supporting our growth strategy?

Laureen: Philanthropy helps position us to serve more people and contributes to our financial stability well into the future. Across the state, numerous donor- supported projects are in motion. I recently had the privilege of attending the blessing ceremony for the Providence Holy Cross NICU expansion and the Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center Friese Family Tower opening celebration. Both expansion projects—and many more comprehensive fundraising priorities across the division—were made possible by system capital and the generosity of our donors. Philanthropy is more important than ever as we deliver on our Mission and care for more people. I’m deeply grateful to our donor partners and dedicated foundation boards who help make it possible.

Kenya: You recently celebrated your 30th anniversary as a nurse. How did your clinical background shape you as a leader?

Laureen: As a charge nurse, I remember watching the hospital CEO make big, consequential decisions. I wanted to be part of that so I could use my bedside experience to advocate for patients and caregivers. Since then, my goal has been to make the biggest impact possible for patients and those who care for them. I understand the value of leading through trusting relationships, being inclusive and partnering with those who are subject matter experts. Trust is invaluable when asking others to support decisions and the direction of the organization. Kenya: What message do you have for our board chairs? Laureen: During the past few months, I’ve had an opportunity to meet many of you and your board members. I’m moved by your unwavering passion and commitment to serve. Your leadership inspires your board to greater success and sends a strong message to your community. I’m thankful our Providence ministries attract dedicated and talented community leaders who advocate for our Mission and vision to create health for a better world. This is a tremendous blessing to the communities we serve. You are invaluable partners and collaborators, and you have my full support and sincere gratitude.