Donita Ross, MSN, RN, NE-BC, CGNC
SPEAKER

Donita Ross, MSN, RN, NE-BC, CGNC

Donita Ross is a global healthcare executive with nearly three decades of nursing and leadership experience, currently serving as Vice President and Associate Chief Nursing Officer and Head of the International Division at Health Carousel International—one of the nation's largest international nurse staffing organizations. A Certified Global Nurse Consultant and Board Director for Health Carousel Global Services Inc., she leads a global operation spanning the U.S., Manila, and offshore centers with full P&L accountability for 100+ employees and a robust pipeline of international healthcare professionals. A recognized thought leader on the nursing shortage, ethical recruitment, and international workforce strategy, she is a TruMerit DAISY Award recipient and a two-time Staffing Industry Analysts Global Power 150 Female Leader in Staffing.

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Leadership
Empowerment
Global

Global Success: What Healthcare Leaders Look for in International Nurses

Thursday, November 12, 2026
10:45 am
Thursday, November 12, 2026
10:45 am
Donita Ross, MSN, RN, NE-BC, CGNC
ACNO, VP @ Health Carousel International
Kourtney Radcliff, MSN,RN,CMSRN,NE-BC
Chief Nursing Officer @ Deaconess Health System
Brenda Byk, MSN, RN, NE-BC, CMSRN, NPD-BC
Regional Director Staffing Operations @ Cleveland Clinic Florida
Leah Ramos, DNP, RN, CENP, NE-BC, CCRN
Associate Chief Nursing Officer @ Medical University of South Carolina

What helps internationally educated nurses thrive in today’s healthcare environments? In this candid panel discussion, nurse leaders and healthcare employers will share their perspectives on what drives long-term success for global nurses entering the U.S. workforce. Panelists will discuss the strengths international nurses commonly bring to patient care—including adaptability, resilience, and cultural awareness—while also honestly addressing some of the most common transition challenges, such as communication styles, documentation expectations, and confidence in escalation and advocacy. The conversation will also explore how healthcare organizations are improving orientation, mentorship, and cultural integration efforts to better support international nurses from day one. Attendees considering this path will leave with valuable insight into what employers truly value beyond credentials—and how to prepare for a successful transition into practice in the United States.