VA Desert Pacific Healthcare Network Announces New Medical Center Executive Director
The VISN 22 Interim Network Director is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Leslie T. Lockridge, DNP, RN, as the new Executive Director of the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, effective April 5, 2026.
Dr. Lockridge brings a wealth of experience and proven leadership to this role. Most recently, she served as the Acting Deputy Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Patient Care Services within the Veterans Health Administration, where she provided oversight for 16 National Program Offices delivering operational, policy, and compliance support across VHA.
Since joining VA in 2009, Dr. Lockridge has held numerous key leadership positions, including Senior Advisor to the Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Patient Care Services/Chief Nursing Officer, Associate Director for Patient Care Services at the Phoenix VA Health Care System, and acting executive leadership roles at Phoenix, New Mexico, and Southeast Louisiana VA Health Care Systems. Her extensive experience spans strategic planning, facility operations, nursing leadership, and patient-centered care initiatives.
Dr. Lockridge earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Chamberlain University, a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from Middle Tennessee State University, and dual Bachelor’s degrees from Tennessee State University and Lipscomb University. She also serves as a Professor of Practice at Arizona State University’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, reflecting her commitment to advancing healthcare education and practice.
With Dr. Lockridge’s extensive experience and leadership, we are confident that she will effectively lead the Southern Arizona Health Care System in continuing to provide excellent care and services to our Veterans.