Denise Kvapil, MSN, RN is an accomplished nurse executive with extensive experience in emergency care, critical care, and hospital operations across multiple health systems in the United States. She has held senior leadership roles including Chief Nursing Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Market Chief Nursing Officer.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Sussex County, New Jersey, Denise developed an early foundation in teamwork and leadership through competitive sports. She later served in the United States Marine Corps from 1986 to 1992, achieving the rank of Corporal (E-4). Her military service shaped a leadership style grounded in accountability, discipline, and service. Denise received the Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Mast, and the National Defense Service Medal and remains affiliated with the Marine Corps League.

Following her military service, Denise pursued nursing education at Hawaii Pacific University and Rutgers University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing at South University in Savannah, Georgia, in 2015.

Denise began her nursing career in high-acuity emergency, intensive care, and cardiac care settings before transitioning into leadership. She entered formal management in 2003 as Assistant Director of Patient Care in the Emergency Department at Kimball Medical Center in New Jersey and later served as Director of Patient Care for the ICU, CCU, and Observation Unit. She subsequently worked as a Nurse Consultant and Interim Nurse Manager at Beebe Healthcare in Delaware and held progressive leadership roles at Christ Hospital in New Jersey, including Assistant Vice President of Patient Care and Nursing Services.

From 2019 to 2023, Denise served as Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center in Florida, where she led hospital operations, nursing services, and capital initiatives, with a focus on improving patient flow, quality outcomes, and leadership development.

Denise is a strong advocate for mentorship and workforce development. She has been recognized for volunteer service following the September 11 attacks, received a Civilian Service Award for lifesaving first aid, and created a community volunteer program that introduced teenagers to healthcare and Basic Life Support certification.