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New CEO for Providence Alaska

Jan 30, 2026 | Healthcare, Right Moves

Photo Credit: Providence Health & Services Alaska

The largest private-sector employer in the state is getting a new boss. Providence Alaska selected Deborah Berini as CEO. She becomes the successor to Ella Goss, a career nurse and former CEO of Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage who led the entire statewide healthcare network for more than three years.

Berini takes over effective February 23.

Berini comes to Alaska from Missouri, having served as president of SSM Health DePaul Hospital in her hometown of St. Louis. Like Providence, SSM Health is a fully integrated nonprofit Catholic health system. Berini is credited with reducing turnover, improving caregiver engagement, advancing quality, and strengthening financial performance.

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Alaska Business Magazine July 2026 cover

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Berini is a graduate of Drury College in Missouri with a master’s degree in health administration from Washington University School of Medicine. She held multiple roles at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, was an associate vice president of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, served as COO of the University of Texas Medical Branch Health system, and was president of Penn State Health – Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

“I’m drawn to Providence by the mission, its Catholic health heritage, and the opportunity to care for Alaskans through compassion, clinical excellence, and a deep respect for community,” says Berini.

Her partner’s family is from Alaska, so Berini has made regular visits to the state. She says she’s excited to make Anchorage home.

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Alaska Business Magazine July 2026 cover
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This July issue features the 11th annual Best of Alaska Business awards, in which our readers vote for their favorite Alaska businesses across dozens of categories. Congratulations to all of the 2026 winners! Also in this issue: how businesses are managing without pennies, modern medical transport solutions, and a report from the Alaska Miners Association's Fairbanks 2026 Convention. Enjoy!
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