Susan D. Finlayson, DNP, RN, is a high energy, visible nurse leader who seeks input from her staff at all levels. She is passionate about the nursing profession and treats patients as if they were members of her own family. She joined Mercy in 2002 as the Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer.

Susan’s extensive healthcare experience, as a nurse, nurse leader and healthcare consultant, gives her the skill and ability required to balance patient needs and financial responsibilities. She is credited with having excellent communication skills, an ability to build teams, and serves as a strong coach and mentor. She is a recognized expert in nursing strategic planning and CNO competencies.

Susan earned her nursing degree from Widener University, attended Drexel University, earned her Master's degree from The University of Pennsylvania, and her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree from The Johns Hopkins University. She began her career as a staff nurse, earned a national reputation as a healthcare consultant, and advanced to her role at Mercy.

Susan’s dedication to nursing is balanced by her enthusiasm for life. She enjoys skiing, most outdoor sports, and special occasions with friends and family.

Mercy nursing is focused on patient-centered care and delivering nursing excellence daily. With staff nurse and nursing leadership collaboration, Mercy nursing enjoys a culture of shared leadership and decision-making. Under Susan’s leadership, Mercy nurses are transforming patient care.