Cheryl Petrarca

Executive Director of Nursing

Day Kimball Health

Day Kimball Health is proud to nominate Cheryl Petrarca, RN, MSN, CNOR, as our 2025 Healthcare Hero. Cheryl was unanimously nominated by her colleagues, who describe her as a trusted, approachable, and reliable leader with a kind soul. Her engagement with staff and physicians, along with her empathy and support for patients and families, sets her apart.

Every day, Cheryl brings dynamic energy to her departments, which include Oncology, Maternal Child Health, Central Sterile Supply, Operating Rooms, Ambulatory Care Unit, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, Endoscopy, and Wound Care. Thanks to her leadership, these areas remain highly engaged, well-informed, and focused on delivering high-quality care. Under Cheryl’s guidance, Maternal Child Health and the Ambulatory Care Unit have achieved the highest patient satisfaction scores in the organization. Additionally, the Operating Room has earned the prestigious CNOR Strong designation for eight consecutive years.

Cheryl does not shy away from responsibility and frequently steps in for other clinical leaders as needed. She takes great pride in her work and the departments she oversees. Her commitment to patient safety and quality is evident in her role as a leader of Day Kimball’s High Reliability Team, where she serves as an instructor and trainer for HRO classes. Consistent with HRO principles, Cheryl is highly analytical and shares her problem-solving skills with new staff, providing ongoing mentorship and support.

As a co-worker, Cheryl is deeply respected, always giving her time freely and uplifting those around her. She exudes positive energy and enthusiasm for her work, making a real difference for patients, families, colleagues, and the community every day.

When Cheryl isn’t at Day Kimball Hospital, she enjoys camping by the water with her family and her beloved (and spoiled) Basset Hound, Buster, in Southern New England.

Click here to view all the 2025 Healthcare Heroes.