PCH welcomes Chris Monk as chief nursing officer

PRINCETON, W.Va. — WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital has named Chris Monk, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, as vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer.

 

Monk brings extensive experience in nursing leadership, clinical operations, workforce development, and quality improvement. Most recently, she served as system senior director of nursing practice at Carilion Clinic, where she helped lead strategic nursing practice initiatives across a multi-hospital system supporting more than 3,500 nurses. In that role, she oversaw professional practice standards, workforce development initiatives, and system-wide efforts focused on quality, patient safety, and operational excellence.

 

Prior to that position, Monk served in leadership roles within Carilion’s Cardiovascular Institute, including senior director, where she managed complex clinical operations, supported service line growth, and helped lead major facility and program development initiatives.

 

For Monk, the appointment represents more than a leadership transition, it is a return to the hospital and community where her healthcare career first began.

Monk started her career at Princeton Community Hospital as a nurse and nurse extern. A Princeton native, she said returning to southern West Virginia is especially meaningful.

 

“I am honored to serve as Chief Nursing Officer at WVU Medicine’s Princeton Community Hospital,” Monk said. “Returning to the place that gave me my very first nursing job and to the community where I began my career is a true full circle moment. This community shaped me as a nurse, and I look forward to supporting the entire care team in advancing WVU Medicine’s mission to improve the health of West Virginians and all we serve through excellence in patient care, research, and education.”

 

Karen Bowling, president and CEO of Princeton Community Hospital, said Monk’s experience and connection to the region make her an exceptional fit for the organization.

 

“Chris brings a tremendous depth of experience in nursing leadership and healthcare operations, but what makes this especially meaningful is that her journey began right here at PCH,” Bowling said. “She understands our mission, our culture, and our community. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue strengthening our nursing workforce, supporting our care teams, and advancing the quality and safety of care we provide to our patients.”

 

Throughout her career, Monk has demonstrated a strong commitment to nursing excellence, team development, and building systems that allow caregivers to work at the highest level of their profession.

 

About WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital
WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital is leading healthcare in the two Virginias. With 420 physicians and mid-level providers, PCH operates a fully accredited 203-bed acute care medical facility, a 64-bed psychiatric hospital, and an emergency room and outpatient services facility in Bluefield. PCH operates seven primary care clinics, 11 specialty clinics, and three rural imaging clinics offering a wide range of care to a 10-county region.