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Latest News
Date: January 24, 2026
Source Name: OC Register
Dr. Carl Schultz quietly retired this week as Orange County’s controversial decision-maker for emergency medical services, four months after fire chiefs countywide called for his termination.
Simon Vu
Chief Financial Advisor
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Theresa Berton
Chief Executive Officer
Theresa Berton is an accomplished Hospital and Nursing Administrator with a proven track record of success in the healthcare sector. She possesses expertise in Clinical Research, Nursing Education, Telemetry, Physician Relations, and Intensive Care. Her strong background in business development is complemented by a Doctorate in Business Administration from the Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School.
Beginning her career as an administrative nursing supervisor at St. Joseph Health, Southern California, Theresa quickly advanced to the role of clinical director at Kaiser Permanente, Southern California. Her exceptional performance led to her promotion to Director of Nursing Services within the same organization. In 2021, she assumed the role of CEO at KPC Health, where she continues to demonstrate her leadership and strategic acumen.
Derek Drake
Chief Executive Officer
Derek Drake serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Orange County Global Medical Center. He began his tenure with Verity Health System in 2016 as the Chief Nursing Officer before assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer at KPC Health in 2020. Derek’s educational achievements include earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Registered Nurse (RN), as well as certifications such as Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), and Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML). He boasts a commendable record of obtaining various professional licenses and certifications, showcasing his commitment to excellence.
Dr. Sumanta Chaudhuri
Executive Vice President
Dr. Sumanta Chaudhuri, a Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine graduate, led as Program Director for the Transitional Year Internship at Hemet Valley Medical Center. Formerly, she held roles as Associate Program Director for Internal Medicine Residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin, and Riverside Community Hospital’s Internal Medicine Residency Associate Program Director. Additionally, she directed the Peri-Operative Clinic at the Eye Institute. Dr. Chaudhuri contributed as Medical Director for local Independent Physician Associations and Hospitalist groups. Presently, she holds the position of Executive Vice President at KPC.
Mahendra Aseri
Executive Vice President
A seasoned executive leader with close to seventeen years of expertise in strategy, analytics, and operations, particularly within the healthcare sector. Presently, occupying the role of Executive Vice President of Strategy & Operations at KPC Health, a prominent hospital system in Southern California. After obtaining a Master of Science in Software Systems, furthered education with a Master of Business Administration in Location Analytics from the University of Redlands. Previously, held positions such as Technical Lead at Wipro Technologies, Lead Data Modeler at Oracle Corporation, and contributed at Adobe. Currently, assumes the role of Managing Director at KPC Techno Vision, showcasing a continued dedication to driving innovation and operational excellence in the healthcare technology landscape.
Peter Baron Off
Chief Executive Officer
Peter Baronoff serves as the CEO and Managing Director at KPC Healthcare and KPC Global Management. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A) in Finance, General, and pursued his master’s degree in EMHA, Health Care Management and Administration from Florida Atlantic University. Recognized for his achievements, he was honored as a ‘Distinguished Citizen’ by the Boy Scouts of America-Gulfstream Council and hailed as a “Pillar” of the Boca Raton Community by the League for Educational Awareness of the Holocaust. Additionally, he was named the 2016 Sun Sentinel Excalibur Award Winner by the Sun Sentinel for his notable contributions to the business community, reflecting his commitment to innovation, company growth, and community welfare.
Mina Holland
Vice President
Mina Holland currently holds the position of Vice President of, System Corporate Supply Chain at KPC Global. Prior to her tenure at KPC, she held roles such as Director of Materials Management at San Antonio Community Hospital and Director of Corporate Supply Chain at AHMC HealthCare. Joining KPC Global Management in November 2021 as Corporate Director of Supply Chain, she swiftly ascended to the role of Vice President of system Corporate Supply Chain. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A) from National University and possesses a deep passion for the medical industry.
Marilyn Drone
Chief Executive Officer
Marilyn Drone obtained her educational qualifications from California State University-Dominguez Hills before embarking on a distinguished career. In 2008, she commenced her journey at St. Mary Medical Center as Executive Vice President COO/CNO, showcasing her leadership and operational expertise. Subsequently, Marilyn assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at Victor Valley Global Medical Center within KPC Health, demonstrating her commitment to advancing healthcare excellence. With a vision to position KPC Health as a premier global medical facility, Marilyn remains dedicated to driving innovation and elevating standards of care, solidifying the organization’s reputation as a leader in the healthcare industry.
Dr. Tirso del Junco
Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Tirso del Junco presently holds the position of Chief Medical Officer at KPC Health System. He obtained his MD in General and Vascular Surgery from Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, specializing in robotic and female alternative surgery. From December 2013 to January 2017, he served as Associate Chief Medical Officer at Mission Community Hospital, and later assumed the role of Chief Medical Officer at Verity Health Systems. With a notable expertise in robotic surgery, Dr. del Junco continues to contribute his skills and leadership to KPC Health as Chief Medical Officer, demonstrating a commitment to advancing medical care and organizational excellence.
Kathryn McLaughlin
Chief Executive Officer
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Bill Thomas
Executive Vice President and General Counsel
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Kelly Thomas
General Counsel
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Azuree Morris
Chief Human Resources Officer
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Padma Rajan
Treasurer
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
David Ross
Chief Executive Officer
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Sumer Sharma
Sr. Vice President of Finance
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Nedal Alqalqili
Chief Quality and Patient Safety Officer
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Maritess Gaetos
Corporate Director of Health Information Management
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Chaminda Perera
Corporate Director of Utilization Management
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.
Robert Metcalfe
CEO at Anaheim and South Coast Global Medical Centers
Kathryn McLaughlin, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Hemet Global Medical Center and Menifee Global Medical Center, possesses extensive career achievements and educational credentials. She attained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Subsequently, she pursued a DrNP in Nursing Science with a focus on Executive Leadership from Drexel University. Throughout her professional journey, McLaughlin has held notable positions, including Assistant Administrator of Patient Care Services at Doctors Hospital of Montclair and Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. She furthered her impact as the Executive Chief Nursing Officer at Southern California Hospitals in Culver City, Hollywood, and Van Nuys before assuming the role of Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital of Gardena prior to joining KPC.