Four Oaks, N.C., March 3, 2026 — CommWell Health, a large private nonprofit Community Health Center, announced today the appointment of Tamara Dunn, MBA, BSHCA, RN, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ms. Dunn was selected following a rigorous evaluation process led by CommWell Health’s Board of Directors.
Ms. Dunn currently serves as Senior Executive Officer, Chief Nursing Officer, and Chief Operations Officer at CommWell Health, where she provides direct oversight of medical, dental, behavioral health, and mobile outreach initiatives across five southeastern counties and 15 office locations. As a native of Erwin in Harnett County, she brings over 30 years of healthcare experience and expertise in clinical care, human resources, information technology, critical care nursing, and service as a legal nurse consultant.
“I have full confidence that Ms. Dunn’s leadership, steady commitment, and passion for community health will strengthen CommWell Health for many years to come. She represents the excellence, integrity, and service that define our organization,” said Johnson Tilghman, Chair of the Board of Directors.
Throughout her tenure, Ms. Dunn has been instrumental in advancing CommWell Health’s mission and vision as one of the nation’s premier Community Health Centers. Under her leadership, the organization has been continuously recognized for best practices in integrated patient care, operational excellence, and a strong culture of quality. Ms. Dunn was also honored as Employee of the Year and has been an active participant and facilitator in CommWell Health’s Eagle Excellence Culture.
“I am honored to step into the role of CEO,” said Ms. Dunn. “CommWell Health is a mission-driven organization rooted in the delivery of compassionate quality and affordable health care to all. I look forward to collaborating with our outstanding team and Board of Directors to honor our legacy and advance the future of care for the communities we serve.”
Ms. Dunn earned her Master’s degree in Organizational Management from Eastern University and her Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration from Ashford University. She is also a certified Legal Nurse Consultant from through the Vickie Milazzo CLNC Certification Program. Ms. Dunn currently serves on several boards, including the Planning Board for the Town of Four Oaks, and Project Access for Wake and Johnston Counties. She is a certified John Maxwell Leadership coach and a standing member of the American Nursing Association.
Ms. Dunn succeeds Pamela Tripp, M.Ed., MSOM, who announced her retirement earlier this year after more than 18 years of service. Ms. Tripp will continue to serve CommWell Health as Senior Executive Advisor to support a smooth and successful leadership transition.
Please follow CommWell Health on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and visit www.commwellhealth.org for more information.
Media contact, Andrea Morales-Williams Senior Director of Public Relations/Marketing at 910-567-7177 or email amorales@commwellhealth.org.
