“Caring is defined as taking courageous, intentional actions on behalf of other people,” shared Reanna Thompson, chief operating officer at PIH Health. “It’s not just a feeling, but how you advocate for someone else.”
After graduating from PLNU with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, Thompson immediately began working as a staff nurse at Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier, Calif., now PIH Health, where she has stayed for 38 years. During that time, she realized her passions for improving healthcare, coaching and mentoring leaders, and above all, integrating her faith into her leadership.
“My faith impacts every aspect of my job,” Thompson shared. “I’m constantly reminded of how God loves each one of us for who we are, and the importance of showing respect and dignity to each person who crosses our path, in all walks of life.”
At PIH, Thompson rose from staff nurse to the unit manager to administrator for medical services, then to chief nursing officer in 2003. For the past two years, she has also served as chief operating officer of the hospital.
Early on, Thompson made a significant impact on the hospital’s intensive care unit, where she served for 20 years. She received recognition from the Voluntary Hospital Association (VHA) for achievements made from an ICU performance improvement project.
Under her leadership, the hospital has received the Path to Excellence Award from National Research Corporation for its top scores in patient experience for six consecutive years; Truven Health Analytics’ Top 100 Hospital; the prestigious Franklin Award for excellent patient case management; as well as numerous other awards for achievements in quality of patient care.
While working at PIH, Thompson pursued her education further, earning a Master of Science in Nursing degree from California State University, Fullerton. She also taught as an adjunct nursing instructor at Azusa Pacific University, and she taught leadership courses at Biola University.
She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, the international nursing honor society, the Association of California Nurse Leaders, and the American Organization of Nurse Executives. She has also served as president of the Hospital Association of Southern California’s San Gabriel Valley Nursing Leadership Council and currently serves on the Nursing Advisory Council for the Hospital Association of Southern California.
She and her husband, Mendell (76), have attended Glendora Community Church for nearly 25 years.
Throughout her career, Thompson has modeled leadership, integrity, compassion and respect for all. She and Mendell have two grown children, Jana (01) and Darren, and four grandchildren.
The Viewpoint
PLNU's university publication, the Viewpoint, seeks to contribute relevant and vital stories that grapple with life's profound questions from a uniquely Christian perspective. Through features, profiles, and news updates, the Viewpoint highlights stories of university alumni, staff, faculty, and students who are pursuing who they are called to be.