Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital has announced Kristy Ahlgrim as its new Director of Nursing, made effective May 10.

A registered nurse at Saint Thomas Rutherford since 1994, Ahlgrim has served medical-surgical and oncology patients as a bedside RN for more than 14 years. She offers 12 years of management experience in oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics, observation, wound care, and IV therapy. Ahlgrim was made Interim Nurse Director in January 2019.

"Kristy has been a vital member of the Saint Thomas Rutherford community for more than 24 years," said Gordon Ferguson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. "She is a gracious leader who always strives to further staff education and enhance the patient experience."

Ahlgrim has been recognized with various professional awards, including the Nursing Leadership Award and the MTMC Star Award for Reverence. In addition to serving as Vice-Chair of the Professional Practice Policy Council and as preceptor for newly-hired nurse managers, Ahlgrim is responsible for hiring and coaching unit team members. She leads various staff education initiatives.

A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, Ahlgrim is chemotherapy-certified and holds oncology nurse certification.