Kat Ascencio‑Holmes, system chief nurse officer at Sutter Health, has been named the 2026 Woman of the Year by Women Health Care Executives, a distinguished honor recognizing women leaders whose vision, influence and impact are shaping the future of healthcare.
Ascencio‑Holmes was honored at the 2026 Women of the Year Gala, WHCE’s signature annual celebration recognizing exceptional women executives who are driving meaningful change across healthcare.
“I’m incredibly proud to represent a profession built on compassion, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to those we serve,” said Ascencio-Holmes. “I’m truly honored to receive this award and to stand alongside so many inspiring women leaders across healthcare.”
As system chief nurse officer, Ascencio‑Holmes provides executive nursing leadership across Sutter’s integrated system, leading more than 17,000 nurses who care for more than 3.5 million patients across the organization’s not‑for‑profit healthcare network. She is deeply committed to empowering nurses to deliver high‑quality care and exceptional patient experiences, while advancing nursing careers and strengthening workforce retention.
With more than 30 years of nursing experience — including over 15 years at Sutter Health — Ascencio‑Holmes has held a range of senior leadership roles across hospital and system settings. Her Sutter leadership journey includes serving as CEO of Stanislaus Surgical Hospital, chief nurse executive at Sutter Roseville Medical Center, interim CEO of Sutter Auburn Faith Hospital, and senior system roles supporting nursing and surgical operations across Northern California.
WHCE recognized Ascencio‑Holmes for her bold, purpose‑driven leadership and commitment to advancing healthcare excellence and care for all. In addition to her work at Sutter Health, she is a national advocate for women’s health and was named 2025 National Women of Impact for American Heart Association.
“At WHCE, our mission is to advance women who advance healthcare — and Kat Ascencio-Holmes brings that mission to life,” said Do Kim, president of WHCE. “She leads with purpose and heart, elevating those around her and redefining what’s possible in healthcare for the next generation.”
For more information about WHCE’s Women of the Year, click here.
