Novant Health has named Laurie Whalin senior vice president and regional president of Novant Health Coastal Region. 

According to a news release, the leadership update was made effective June 1. 

“With deep ties to these communities, each of these leaders will keep local needs at the center of focus while allowing for continued strategic growth,” said John Gizdic, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Novant Health in the release. “By aligning regional, clinical and enterprise leaders more closely, we are creating stronger connections and enabling agility across our system to drive remarkable, patient-centered care, ultimately strengthening how we serve our patients and communities.”   

The decision comes after the previous regional president of the Novant Health Coastal Region, Ernie Bovio, departed the organization earlier this year. Bovio was appointed as the regional president of UNC Health's Southeast Coastal Region in April. According to a spokesperson from Novant Health, Whalin served in an "interim expanded leadership role" following Bovio's departure. 

Whalin will continue to serve as president of Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, a position she has held since 2025. Whalin previously served as president and chief operating officer of Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center and vice president of clinical services at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. 

Novant also announced the appointment of Chris Bowe to regional president of the Novant Health Charlotte Region and Alisha Hutchens as regional president of the Triad Region. Both positions were effective June 1, the release said.