AVALA CNO JOY MELGAR, MSN, RN NAMED IN BECKER’S HOSPITAL REVIEW 2025 CNOs TO KNOW LIST
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 21, 2026
Media Inquiries: Brooke Russell | 985.801.6212 | info@avala.com
Covington, Louisiana— Becker’s Hospital Review has named Joy Melgar, MSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer at AVALA, to its prestigious 2025 “Chief Nursing Officers to Know” list, recognizing nurse leaders nationwide who are driving innovation, clinical excellence, and operational strength across healthcare systems.
The annual list honors CNOs who are navigating complex challenges including workforce development, staffing sustainability, budget oversight, and quality outcomes all while advancing patient care and strengthening nursing leadership pipelines.
Ms. Melgar is deeply focused on building a high-performing nursing workforce by expanding recruitment and retention efforts, growing the preceptor program, and creating ongoing education and skills-development opportunities. Ms. Melgar also drives cross-departmental collaboration and workflow optimization to improve efficiency and consistency across inpatient, outpatient and same-day procedural settings.
Her efforts have been instrumental in advancing AVALA’s spine programs in 2025, contributing to the organization earning Blue Distinction+ for Spine Surgery and advanced certifications across multiple specialties. Beyond the organization, she remains engaged in the profession through active membership in regional and state nursing associations.
The full 2025 CNOs to Know list can be found here.
About Becker’s Healthcare
Becker’s Healthcare is the go-to source for healthcare decision-makers and one of the fastest-growing media platforms in the industry. Through print, digital and live event platforms, Becker’s Healthcare equips healthcare leaders with information and forums they need to learn, exchange ideas, and further conversations about the most critical issues in American healthcare today.
