Two Covenant Health Presidents Recognized Among Nation’s Top Women Leading Hospitals
- 4 minute read.
- Last Updated: 8/6/2026
Strong leadership in healthcare is more than managing operations. It is about building strong teams, improving access to care and ensuring every decision keeps patients at the center. That commitment is reflected in a recent national honor awarded to two Covenant Health leaders.
Tab Culbertson, FACHE, president and chief administrative officer of Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, and Connie Martin, MT, MS, FACHE, president and chief administrative officer of Covenant Health Fort Loudoun, have been named to Becker’s list of 2026 Women Hospital and Health System Presidents and CEOs to Know. The annual recognition highlights influential women who are shaping the future of healthcare through leadership, innovation and service.
“This recognition reflects the outstanding leadership and commitment that Tab and Connie bring to their hospitals, their teams and the communities they serve every day,” said Mike Belbeck, executive vice president of operations for Covenant Health. “Both leaders are making a lasting impact through their focus on quality, patient-centered care and operational excellence. I am proud to see their contributions recognized nationally, and I’m honored to work alongside such talented leaders. I appreciate the integrity and heart they bring to their work every day.”
While both leaders serve in different communities, they share a common leadership philosophy: people come first.
Leading with Purpose at Fort Sanders Regional
Since becoming president of Fort Sanders Regional in 2025, Culbertson has worked closely with physicians and caregivers. Together, they are strengthening the hospital’s role as one of East Tennessee’s leading medical centers. Her focus on collaboration, innovation and patient-centered care has helped position the hospital for continued success.
For Culbertson, leadership begins with serving others and creating opportunities for teams to thrive. “This recognition is truly a reflection of the incredible physicians, caregivers and leaders I’ve had the privilege to serve alongside throughout my career,” said Culbertson. “I’ve learned that when people feel valued, heard and connected to a shared purpose, extraordinary things happen for our teams, our patients and our communities.”
Her approach emphasizes the importance of culture and teamwork. She recognizes that the best outcomes are achieved when employees feel supported and empowered. As healthcare continues to evolve, Culbertson remains focused on advancing innovation while never losing sight of the patients and families depending on Fort Sanders Regional.
Investing in Communities at Fort Loudoun
At Fort Loudoun, Martin has guided significant growth and maintained a strong commitment to patient care and community relationships. Under her leadership, the Brethen Foundation Advanced Care Wing opened in fall 2025. The $15 million expansion added 26 private patient rooms and an 11-bed state-of-the-art intensive care unit. This wing has increased access to advanced healthcare services for residents throughout Loudon County.
Martin views healthcare leadership through the lens of long-term community impact.
“The most meaningful achievements in healthcare are those that improve access and outcomes for the communities we serve,” explained Martin. “When we invest in our hospitals, our caregivers and our patients, we create opportunities for healthier communities and a stronger future for generations to come.”
Throughout her career, Martin has focused on building partnerships, supporting caregivers and creating opportunities that benefit current and future patients. Her dedication to improving healthcare access continues to help meet the growing needs of the Fort Loudon community.
A Shared Commitment to People
Culbertson and Martin share many of the same leadership qualities that Becker’s sought to recognize. They both exemplify vision, collaboration, compassion and a commitment to excellence.
“What makes Tab and Connie exceptional leaders is their unwavering commitment to people,” said Belbeck. “They lead with compassion, support their teams and put our patients first. This recognition reflects the positive impact they have on our hospitals, our caregivers and the communities we serve.”
Their inclusion on this list reflects more than individual achievement. It also highlights the dedication of the physicians, caregivers, employees and community partners who work alongside them every day.
As healthcare continues to face new challenges and opportunities, leaders like Culbertson and Martin are helping shape a stronger future for patients across East Tennessee. They are proving that exceptional leadership starts with service, collaboration and a commitment to improving lives.
