FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VHC Health Welcomes New Leadership to its Board of Directors
John Nguyen as Chair, Dr. M. Anthony Casolaro as Vice Chair
Arlington, VA (December 20, 2024) – VHC Health, a leading community health system in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, is proud to announce John Nguyen, CFP, CIMA, has been named Chair of its Board of Directors and M. Anthony Casolaro, MD, as Vice Chair, effective January 8, 2025. Dr. Russell McWey, VHC Health Board Chairman since 2020, Board member since 2005 and VHC Health medical staff member since 1987, is stepping down as the Chair but will continue serving on the Board. Additionally, Vice Chairman Dan Knise is stepping down from his role. Knise has been a Board Member for 14 years and will continue to serve as a member of the Board.
“As John transitions into his role as Chair, we recognize his decade-long tenure as a Board member, and are excited to see where his leadership will take VHC Health in this new chapter,” said Christopher T. Lane, President and CEO of VHC Health.
“I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to thank Dr. McWey for his more than thirty-five years of service to our health system. His dedication and guidance have been instrumental in advancing the Board and furthering VHC Health’s mission. His many contributions include navigating the delivery of exceptional patient care throughout COVID-19 and leading major projects to success, such as the opening of the Outpatient Pavilion. We are grateful he will continue serving on the Board,” Lane added. “Further, VHC Health has been so fortunate to have the leadership and insight of Dan Knise in the Vice Chairman role for 5 years. As a long-time Arlingtonian, Dan has been instrumental in assisting VHC Health with its strategic plans and vision for the future. VHC Health is a better health system because of his efforts,” stated Lane.
Over the past 30 years, VHC Health’s Board of Directors has experienced just three leadership transitions, reflecting the dedication and integrity of those who serve both the Board and the community. John Nguyen has been a member of the Board since 2010, initially serving on the Finance Committee and then as Treasurer since 2013. As a managing partner of Clarendon Wealth Management, his focus on strategic planning and community support aligns seamlessly with VHC Health’s mission.
As a lifelong Arlington resident, Nguyen’s connection to VHC Health runs deep, spanning generations of care for his family. From the births of his three children to the care provided to his parents and siblings, VHC Health has been a cornerstone of his family’s journey. In gratitude, Nguyen and his wife, KC, have made significant philanthropic gifts to the health system and have dedicated a patient room in honor of the exceptional care they received. The Nguyen family has also generously supported hospital staff by donating over 7,500 meals during the holiday season.
“VHC Health isn’t just a healthcare provider; it’s an integral part of the fabric of our community,” said Nguyen. “Our family’s gift reflects the trust and gratitude we feel. I’m honored to help guide VHC Health toward a future of even greater service, personalized care and impact.” He continued, “I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Dr. McWey for more than ten years and thank him for his commitment to strengthening the Board with his valuable insights and service. I look forward to building on the foundation set by such a dedicated leader.”
Dr. M. Anthony Casolaro, a respected pulmonologist and educator, will step into the role of Vice Chair. A Fellow of the American College of Physicians and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Georgetown University, Dr. Casolaro has been an active Board member since 2021. Additionally, Dr. Casolaro has been a member of the medical staff since 1987 and has previously served as Chief of Medicine and President of the Medical staff. His extensive medical expertise and leadership in patient care will play a vital role in advancing VHC Health’s approach to innovation and collaboration.
“Dr. Casolaro brings a unique perspective that bridges clinical care and organizational leadership,” Lane noted. “His guidance will be key in addressing the evolving healthcare landscape while ensuring we remain focused on the needs of our patients and the community.”
“As a physician, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary dedication and care that VHC Health provides to its patients,” said Dr. Casolaro. “In this new role, I am excited to help shape the future of our organization and ensure we continue to deliver exceptional care throughout our growing health system.”
Under the leadership of Nguyen and Dr. Casolaro, VHC Health will build on its strong foundation of compassionate, high-quality care. Their combined expertise and dedication will help shape the organization’s future, ensuring it remains a trusted resource for the community it serves.
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About VHC Health:
VHC Health® is a not-for-profit health system serving the Washington, DC metropolitan area, anchored by a 453-bed teaching hospital. We deliver high-quality, patient-centered care using advanced technology. With a growing network of primary and specialty care locations, we make healthcare more accessible for our community. Consistently recognized as a leading health system in Virginia, VHC Health has earned numerous awards and proudly holds the Magnet® designation for nursing excellence.
