Ellington Named to Becker's "Rural Hospital and Health System Presidents and CEOs to Know" for 2026

UNC Health Southeastern President and CEO Chris Ellington was named to Becker's Hospital Review's “146 Rural Hospital and Health System Presidents and CEOs to Know” in 2026 list, which was published April 29, 2026.

According to Beckers, “the featured leaders are responsible for expanding the services their communities rely on, recruiting the talented caregivers who deliver that care, and investing in facilities via thoughtful renovations and ambitious new construction. These executives wield an ability to manage complexity while genuinely investing in the people and places they serve. Their hospitals' successes are measured in healthier neighbors, stronger communities, and improved overall patient experience.”

Ellington's entry reads: Since 2021, Mr. Ellington has served as president and CEO of UNC Health Southeastern, a health system that sees 13,000 inpatients and 60,000 emergency patients each year. UNC Health Southeastern is the only hospital in rural Robeson County. Under his leadership, the organization has seen significant improvements in publicly reported quality scores, including improved patient experience scores. Mr. Ellington spearheaded a $40 million investment in women’s and children’s health services, resulting in the first new labor and delivery unit with NICU in the county in decades. He also enhanced the organization’s visibility and community engagement through a media campaign and initiatives like an annual 5K health event. His tenure has stabilized financial outcomes, expanded medical education funding and strengthened community partnerships. Previously, he held senior leadership roles at Chapel Hill, N.C.-based UNC Health and Hazard, Ky.-based Appalachian Regional Healthcare. 

The Becker's Hospital Review team completed editorial research and accepted nominations to curate this list. The full list features individual profiles of all honorees and can be read here.