Ascension announced today that Nick Ragone will be joining the organization as Chief Communications Officer, effective June 23. Mr. Ragone will provide leadership for the communications function across Ascension, its subsidiaries, and its 36 Health Ministries, which include hospitals and related health facilities in 23 states and the District of Columbia.
We are excited to have a leader of Nick’s caliber join our team,” said Anthony R. Tersigni, EdD, FACHE, President and Chief Executive Officer, Ascension. “As Ascension works to advance our healing Mission and strengthen Catholic healthcare, it is critical that we have a strong Communications leader to give voice to our purpose and our priorities.
Mr. Ragone will report to John D. Doyle, Executive Vice President, Ascension and President and CEO, Ascension Holdings. Mr. Ragone is joining Ascension from Ketchum Public Relations, where he is a partner and director of its Washington, D.C., office. Prior to that, he served as Associate Director of Ketchum’s New York office, where he oversaw the corporate, media, and issues and crisis practices.
Nick’s work will enhance the strategic identity of Ascension among important communities, stimulate engagement, and ensure our insight into key constituents’ needs and expectations,” said Mr. Doyle.
Ascension is a truly remarkable organization and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the opportunity to serve as its Chief Communications Officer,” said Mr. Ragone. “Ascension is leading the way in healthcare transformation and delivering world-class and affordable care to all – with special attention to the underserved and most vulnerable. This is an exciting time to be in healthcare delivery as Ascension navigates the rapidly changing environment. I look forward to helping Ascension make a difference in people's lives.
Mr. Ragone earned a Juris Doctorate degree from the Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J. He is the author of four books on presidential leadership and government, including his most recent, Presidential Leadership: 15 Decisions that Changed the Nation. In 2007, PR Week named Mr. Ragone one of its “40 under 40 to watch” in its inaugural issue of that list. He is a regular contributor to Fox News and CNN.
