Health Commissioner Persichilli to Retire

On Jul 21, 2023

Referred to as “the woman who needs no introduction” by Gov. Phil Murphy, New Jersey Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli is retiring in August. Appointed to her post in June 2019, Persichilli was the first nurse to be named health commissioner. She became a key figure in the state’s pandemic response, leading the health department through the health crisis, and providing the public with updates during the governor’s daily COVID-19 briefings.

“Judy’s unwavering dedication to public service during one of the most challenging times in our nation’s history will be remembered with sincere appreciation & gratitude,” said Murphy. “[We are] grateful for her tireless efforts to advance the health & well-being of New Jerseyans.”

Prior to leading the department, Persichilli served as the acting CEO of University Hospital in Newark.

She was president emerita of CHE Trinity Health, the health ministry formed in May 2013 by the consolidation of Catholic Health East and Trinity Health of Livonia, MI. She previously served as the interim president and CEO of CHE Trinity Health. Prior to this appointment, Persichilli was president and CEO of Catholic Health East.

Prior to joining CHE’s System Office, she served for eight years as CEO of St. Francis Medical Center in Trenton.

Persichilli received her nursing diploma from the St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing summa cum laude from Rutgers University, and a Master of Arts in Administration summa cum laude from Rider University. She also received an honorary Doctor of Health degree from Georgian Court University in 2009. In May 2011, Persichilli received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT.

“Judy was the steady hand and calm voice we needed during the worst public health crisis of our lifetimes,” said New Jersey Hospital Association President and CEO, Cathy Bennett. “She faced the pandemic head-on and provided guidance and support to our industry as we worked to care for a frightened and ailing population. Judy’s leadership went far beyond COVID-19. She prioritized maternal health, mental health and the opioid epidemic – crises that have touched so many of us and our families. The membership of the New Jersey Hospital Association and I wish Judy all the best and thank her for her tireless service to the state.”

Citing her service during the pandemic, Murphy named the Department of Health headquarters in Trenton after Persichilli  — a rare honor for a sitting commissioner.

Murphy has not yet named Persichilli’s successor for commissioner.

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