She is a "hands-on" leader who has been known to pitch in by donning her scrubs and working with her staff. Her considerable experience in nursing gives her a unique perspective as she puts her focus on patient care and developing programs that respond to the needs of the community.

Dr. Davis came to St. Vincent’s from an 18-year career at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, New York where she developed and implemented a variety of successful clinical services, including a new regional heart center for residents of the upstate New York area.

Dr. Davis received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mt. Saint Mary College, Newburgh, NY, her Master of Arts in Nursing Administration and Doctorate of Education from Columbia University with an emphasis in management. She is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Since taking over as St. Vincent’s CEO in 2004, Dr. Davis has presided over the opening of the region’s most advanced Operating Suites and Intensive Care Units, and has launched the most ambitious technology upgrade in the Medical Center’s history.

Dr. Davis is currently overseeing a $142 million dollar master facility plan, which is being supported by more than $42 million from an ongoing capital campaign. As the first phase of the project nears completion, St. Vincent’s is set to open its new Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care in 2009, and facilities that will triple the size of its emergency department.

In addition to leading the Medical Center, Dr. Davis, as President of the St. Vincent’s system, also oversees the operations of Southern Connecticut’s largest behavioral health hospital, an associate degree granting college of healthcare studies, the state’s largest center for disabled children and one of Ascension’s most successful foundations.

Currently serving as the First Vice Chairperson of the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, Dr. Davis has received both local and national recognition for her commitment to the community and to volunteerism. She has been recognized for her service with the United Way, Hospice, and the American Cancer Society in New York State and Connecticut. Her commitment to patient safety and excellent outcomes has made her a change agent at St. Vincent’s and within the healthcare industry.