Making Rounds
After nearly two decades leading Cape Fear Valley Health, Chief Executive Officer Michael Nagowski is preparing to retire on July 1, leaving behind a legacy of growth, innovation and a deep commitment to the communities the health system serves.
Nagowski joined Cape Fear Valley Health in 2008 during a time of significant change in healthcare. Since then, he has helped guide the organization through major expansion, the addition of new hospitals and clinics, advances in technology and patient care and the continued development of one of the region’s largest healthcare systems.
Today, Cape Fear Valley Health includes eight hospitals, nearly 100 care sites and a growing network of providers serving patients across southeastern North Carolina.
For Nagowski, the work has always been about more than buildings, programs or numbers.
“At the center of everything we do are the patients and families who trust us with their care,” Nagowski said. “That responsibility is something I have never taken lightly. Every decision we made was focused on making healthcare more accessible, more advanced and more compassionate for the people in our region.”
Throughout his tenure, Nagowski helped lead efforts to expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen specialty services and grow the health system’s Graduate Medical Education programs. One of the most significant milestones during his leadership has been the development of Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine, which will welcome its first class of students this fall.
Nagowski said helping create opportunities to train future healthcare professionals close to home has been one of the most meaningful parts of his career.
“When we invest in education, we invest in the future of healthcare,” he said. “We know many of these students will stay here, build their careers here and care for patients here. That is how we create a stronger future for our communities.”
“There is so much to be excited about. Cape Fear Valley Health is continuing to grow, innovate and invest in the future. I believe the very best is still ahead.” – Michael Nagowski
Nagowski also played a key role in supporting partnerships with local colleges and universities, including Fayetteville Technical Community College, Fayetteville State University and Bladen Community College, helping strengthen the pipeline for nurses, allied health professionals and physicians across the region.
But while his accomplishments are easy to see in the growth of the health system, many staff members say what they will remember most is the way Nagowski made people feel.
Throughout the years, he became known for walking the halls, stopping to talk with employees and remembering details about their families, children and lives outside of work. Staff often describe him as approachable, friendly and someone who genuinely cared.
“What makes Mike special is how he makes you feel truly heard,” said Dan Weatherly, CEO of Cape Fear Valley Health. “He never rushes you and is completely present in conversation. He takes the time to know everyone beyond their job titles, often chatting about family or football. That personal touch really makes a difference to everyone around him.”
Nagowski was also known for one tradition that became a favorite among staff: pushing a candy cart through departments and handing out treats while checking in on employees.
Whether he was visiting a nursing unit, an office or a support department, staff members say the candy cart was never just about the candy. It was a chance to talk, laugh and feel appreciated.
“That simple candy cart gesture really highlighted who he was,” said Dan. “He was someone who cared deeply for others, using that small act to ensure staff knew they were valued.”
Over the years, Nagowski also saw Cape Fear Valley Health face some of its biggest challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic reminded us just how strong and resilient this organization truly is,” Nagowski said. “I saw our teams step up in extraordinary ways. I saw people work long hours, support each other and continue showing up for patients every day, even during the hardest moments. That is something I will never forget.”
As he prepares for retirement, Nagowski said he is most proud of the people who make Cape Fear Valley Health what it is.
“This organization has some of the most dedicated, talented and compassionate people I have ever had the privilege to work with,” he said. “I will miss the people most of all. Cape Fear Valley Health has been such an important part of my life, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve this community.”
While his retirement marks the end of an era, the impact of Nagowski’s leadership will continue to be felt for years to come — in the patients who received care, the staff members he encouraged and the future healthcare professionals who will one day train and work here because of the foundation he helped build.
“There is so much to be excited about,” he said. “Cape Fear Valley Health is continuing to grow, innovate and invest in the future. I believe the very best is still ahead.”
