Hunterdon Health Announces Leadership Change

Retiring CEO Patrick Gavin says the system’s future is bright 
and its mission is in capable hands with Kristy Alfano at the helm

Hunterdon Health’s Board of Trustees announced Kristy Alfano MSN, RN, NE-BC will be promoted to Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the health system, effective July 1.  Alfano, who has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer since 2023, was appointed by the Board to succeed outgoing President and Chief Executive Officer Patrick Gavin, who announced earlier this year his plan to retire effective June 30.

“I am deeply honored by the Board’s confidence and trust in me to serve as Interim President and CEO, and grateful for the opportunity to lead this incredible health system and build upon a strong foundation that has been laid by my predecessor(s),” said Alfano.

“More importantly, I am deeply committed to advancing Hunterdon Health’s mission, supporting our dedicated physicians, nurses, and staff, and ensuring we continue to provide exceptional care to those who depend on us,” Alfano said. “Together, we will remain focused on serving our community, meeting evolving healthcare needs, and strengthening our organization for the future.”

With over 25 years of healthcare experience, Alfano began her career as a nurse at Hunterdon Medical Center. She has since assumed various leadership roles within the Hunterdon Health system, including Director of the Intermediate Care Unit, Director of Patient Care Experience, Director of the Emergency Department, Assistant Vice President of Clinical Operations and, most recently, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Alfano holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on healthcare administration.  In addition, she also completed a fellowship through the Advisory Board focused on healthcare. 

As a Hunterdon County native, Alfano has a deep connection to the community and understanding of the organization’s culture. In addition to raising her two children, Emma and Andrew, in Hunterdon County, she was born at Hunterdon Medical Center and continues to reside in the county with her husband, Daniel Spencer. Alfano is an alumna of the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Hunterdon program (inaugural class of 2012) and in May 2026 was inducted as a County Chamber Board member.

In his message to Hunterdon Health employees, Gavin shared, “For nearly four decades, I have had the privilege of serving in executive leadership roles at a half a dozen remarkable healthcare organizations, including more than seven years at Hunterdon Health. I shared with the Board of Trustees my decision to retire as President and CEO at the end of my current contract, as I proceed with my planned retirement.”

“Leading Hunterdon Health and working alongside you each day to safeguard our community's health over the years has been both a privilege and a joy,” Gavin stated. “The strides we have made are a testament to your collective contributions and your unyielding commitment to upholding our mission.”

Over the past eight years, Gavin has led Hunterdon Health through significant challenges, including the global pandemic, and has achieved important milestones. These include maintaining a Leapfrog “A” rating since 2020 and securing approval for elective angioplasty services. Under his leadership, Hunterdon Health has made major expansions, including enhancements to the Emergency Department and renovations to the Lambertville Health Campus. The organization has also been recognized as a Great Place to Work®.

“Hunterdon Health’s Board of Trustees is appreciative of Patrick Gavin’s leadership and has worked closely with him on developing a thoughtful transition plan,” said Hunterdon Health’s Board Chair Dr. K.C. Rondello. “The Board is grateful to Kristy Alfano for her many contributions and continued dedication to Hunterdon Health’s mission as she assumes the role of Interim President and CEO of our health system. With strong leadership in place, we expect a smooth transition.”

Gavin expressed confidence in his successor, “Hunterdon Health is now at a pivotal point of strength, perfectly positioned to enter its next chapter. I will retire with full confidence that the organization’s future is bright and its mission is in capable hands.”