Deborah “Debbie” McCoy, RN, MS, has been named the executive director of Keck Medicine of USC’s Nursing Institute. Currently USC Arcadia Hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer, McCoy will step into her new role on Oct. 9.

Drawing on her many years of health care experience, McCoy will oversee the strategic direction, management and operations of the Nursing Institute. Her mission will involve building out and supervising programs in leadership development and specialty nurse training, along with other duties.

In a memo announcing the news, the members of Keck Medicine’s Council of Chief Nursing Officers said, “We are happy to report that Debbie, with her thorough understanding of nursing practices, regulations and patient care, is the most suitable candidate for this important role.”

McCoy began working in patient care as a nurse educator 50 years ago, then worked her way up to the role of nurse practitioner. Her career led her to numerous roles within USC Arcadia Hospital’s leadership team before she became the hospital’s chief nursing officer in 2018.

In addition to her time at Keck Medicine, McCoy has served in various health care leadership positions across the nation.

“Those who know Debbie can attest to her unrivalled dedication to excellence in the provision of care,” said the council. “We are lucky to be in a position where the next generation of practicing nurses can draw from her deep understanding and dedication to exceptional patient care.”

Keck Medicine’s Council of Chief Nursing Officers includes: Awa Jones, RN, MSHCM, chief nursing officer for USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Hospital; Theresa Murphy, RN, MS, CENP, chief nursing officer for USC Verdugo Hills Hospital; Cindy Naveira, MSN, RN, ACNP-BC, CENP, chief nursing officer for USC Care Medical Group; and Annette Sy, DNP, RN, NE-BC, chief nursing executive of Keck Hospital of USC and USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Hospital.

— Kate Faye