Chief nursing officer Deb Carver, MBA, BSN, RN

Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center chief nursing officer Deb Carver, MBA, BSN, RN, was inspired to pursue nursing while volunteering in a community hospital. After becoming friendly with some of the nurses, she decided to go to nursing school. It was a good decision. Her career spans 30 years and includes several leadership and executive roles at hospitals in Arizona and California.

“I didn’t start my adulthood thinking I wanted to be a nurse,” she smiles. “I did it as a second career, and I’m thrilled I did.”

Focused on community
Drawn to the community hospital model over big academic medical centers, Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center checked many boxes for Deb. “I love the mission and that it’s faith based and has a community focus,” she says. “And, full transparency, it’s close to my grandchildren.”

Deb was also enticed by the Reimagined construction project, a $644 million investment, including $75 million in community support, to “reimagine” the Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center campus for the future.

“It’s magical to watch this project unfold,” says Deb. “The community has been so involved, and you really feel that. The opening of the new patient tower will give staff a magnificent place to practice their great work and provide a sacred healing space for our patients.”

Steeped in gratitude
Deb appreciates the culture of the medical center that attracts mission-driven caregivers. “Collectively, we’ve created an environment here that’s rooted in the mission and serving the community,” says Deb. “Every day, despite constant change, our caregivers show up ready to give their all. The respect and gratitude I have for my colleagues grows daily.”

She understands the power of philanthropy and is grateful to the donors who support the work she’s so proud to be doing. “That the community believes in what we’re doing and is moved to support us is rewarding to us as caregivers,” she shares. “Their faith in us is uplifting.”