NEWTON, NC—Carolina Caring announces that Dana Killian, MBA, FACHE, will be transitioning from her role as President and Chief Executive Officer into a new professional opportunity as Chief Growth Officer with Everent Health, a Kentucky based non-profit organization. In this role, she will continue her passion for advancing access to care and supporting mission-driven healthcare organizations nationwide.
Since joining Carolina Caring in 2020, Dana has led with compassion, vision, and an unwavering belief in the nonprofit serious illness provider’s mission. She guided the organization through tremendous growth, launching Caregiver Solutions, forming a strategic partnership with CaroMont Health to integrate Gaston Hospice operations into Carolina Caring, and advancing programs that strengthen access, innovation, and community engagement, such as expanding grief counseling services. She has also been instrumental in partnering the organization’s PACE operations with other PACE programs to strengthen continuity of care for seniors.
Under her leadership, Killian expanded hospice operations into SC through a partnership with Teleios Collaborative Network and its member organizations. During her tenure, Carolina Caring was repeatedly recognized as one of Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work, even amid significant growth and change, reflecting the strong Culture of Caring she inspired. Killian’s vision has contributed greatly to Carolina Caring’s reputation for excellence, including becoming a trusted partner in providing whole person care for patients and families across the region.
“It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to serve alongside such a dedicated, mission-driven team,” Killian said. “The work our team does every day caring for patients and families during life’s most difficult moments is extraordinary. I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished together and incredibly appreciative for the opportunity to have been part of the Carolina Caring family.”
As Carolina Caring moves through this transition, the Board and leadership team are committed to ensuring that the organization remains strong, sustainable, and well-positioned for the future.
Board President D’Ann Grell expressed deep appreciation for Killian’s service and leadership. “On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are profoundly grateful for Dana’s years of leadership, commitment, and the strong foundation she has built,” said Grell. “Her steady hand and forward-thinking vision have guided Carolina Caring through remarkable growth while keeping compassion and quality at the center of all we do. The Board is dedicated to continuing her legacy by building upon what she has established and ensuring our mission continues to succeed.”
Carolina Caring is pleased to share that Christina McNally, Carolina Caring’s Chief Strategy Officer, will serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer effective November 10th, 2025, as a search is conducted for a permanent CEO. McNally will work collaboratively with Killian to ensure a smooth transition before Killian’s last day on December 23rd, 2025.
“Carolina Caring’s mission and commitment remain steadfast,” Grell added. “We are excited about the future and confident in the incredible team that will continue the important work Dana has so passionately led.”
Pictured Above, Left-Right: Christina McNally and Dana Killian
