Biography

Sandra Connell BSN, RN, LSSBB, is a dedicated and results-driven healthcare executive with more than 20 years of experience in surgical services, transplant program management, and acute care leadership. As Chief Nursing Officer of Exceptional Community Hospital – Farmington, she provides strategic and operational leadership for nursing services, ensuring the highest standards of patient care, safety, and clinical excellence. Sandra is committed to fostering an environment that empowers nursing teams, promotes collaboration, and advances evidence-based practice across all areas of care.

A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB), Sandra leverages data-driven strategies and process improvement methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce variation, and strengthen quality outcomes. Her expertise in performance improvement and operational redesign has resulted in measurable gains in patient throughput, regulatory compliance, and staff engagement.

Before stepping into her current role, Sandra served as Director of Surgical Services at Animas Surgical Hospital, where she oversaw hospital and ambulatory surgery center operations, and implemented initiatives that improved performance, reduced inefficiencies, and supported significant service line growth.

Previously, she managed multiple transplant programs at UF Health Shands, including adult and pediatric liver, kidney, and intestinal transplants. Her leadership contributed to the program’s national recognition for clinical excellence and patient outcomes. She also held nursing and surgical leadership positions with Florida Neurosurgical Associates and Lake City Medical Center, and earlier in her career, gained valuable experience as a Certified Surgical Technologist and Surgical First Assistant.

Sandra earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude) and Associates in Nursing from Rasmussen College and is currently completing her Master’s in Healthcare Administration.

She is a proud member of AORN, the American Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau International, and National Society of Leadership and Success.