Page 5 - Desert Oracle November 2019

PVAHCS staff,
The mission continues…

Last week we congratulated Ms. RimaAnn Nelson on her appointment as Network Director for VISN 10 covering
VA medical centers and clinics across Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. For us, the mission continues forward with
the same robust strategic plan and clear path forward that Ms. Nelson has led over the last 3 years.
To continue the mission, we congratulate Dr. Alyshia Smith, who will be the Acting Medical Center Director. Dr.
Smith has been with the Phoenix VA since 2015 as the Associate Director of Patient Care Services (ADPCS).
Dr. Smith has nearly 25 years of leadership experience and has been a key executive leader in formulating and
driving the strategic vision.
Dr. Leslie Lockridge, DNP, RN, CCRN, will be the Acting ADPCS. As Acting ADPCS, Dr. Lockridge will be
responsible for Nursing Service, Sterile Processing Service, Chaplain Service and Social Work Service. Ms.
Lynn Schneider will be the Acting Deputy Chief Nurse Executive.

We also recently welcomed our newest Service Chief, Jennifer M. Russoniello. An Army Veteran, Jennifer will
serve as our Veteran Experience Officer responsible for the Veteran Resource Center, Veteran Experience
programs and Employee Engagement activities. Jennifer joined the Phoenix VA in 2008 and has held a variety
of roles including Patient Advocate Supervisor, Equal Employment Program Manager and VA Police Officer.
She will report to our Assistant Director, Elijah Ditter.

Thank you for the great work you will continue to do every day in service to our Veterans!
Executive Leadership Team
Phoenix VA Health Care System