Margaret R. Peterson, PhD, serves as President of Dignity Health - California Hospital Medical, a 318-bed community hospital located at 1401 South Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles. Peterson began her career as a registered nurse. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., her Master of Science degree in Cardiovascular Nursing from The Catholic University of America in Washington, and her Doctor of Philosophy in Administration from Miami University in Ohio.
Peterson has served in executive leadership roles over the past several years. Most recently, she was chief executive officer (CEO) at Desert Valley Hospital and Desert Valley Medical Group in Victorville, California, where she lead expansion efforts that included the opening of a comprehensive heart center. Prior to that, Peterson was CEO of Victor Valley Community Hospital and Simi Valley Hospital and Health Care Services in Simi Valley, California. She has also held executive leadership positions at hospitals in the states of Louisiana and Maryland.
Peterson has been honored by several organizations for her community leadership and named as “2005 Woman of the Year” by the 38th Assembly District of the California State Legislature. More recently, she received the President’s Award for Leadership from the Victorville African American Chamber of Commerce. A results-oriented leader, Peterson understands the important role that a hospital plays in the well-being of the community it serves. She is mission-driven and has hands-on community relations experience. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated her commitment to excellence in patient care through strategic partnerships with the American Heart Association and other notable organizations.
As new residents and professionals move into downtown Los Angeles, Peterson looks forward to introducing them to the outstanding services of Dignity Health - California Hospital Medical Center. Peterson will work closely with the hospital team and community partners to ensure continued growth as the neighborhood blossoms, while continuing to care for families who have relied on the hospital for generations.
