Dr. Mona Gaw, DNP, MPA, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, CPHQ, is a transformational leader in nursing, embodying excellence, resilience, and a commitment to patient-centered care. As Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of Ascension Seton Hays, she plays a pivotal role in shaping nursing practice, fostering professional growth, and driving strategic initiatives that enhance healthcare delivery. She also serves as Chair of the Ascension Texas Nurse Executive Council, where she leads efforts to elevate nursing leadership, operational efficiency, and workforce engagement.
Born and raised in the Philippines, Mona’s journey in nursing began at a young age, inspired by a family of healthcare professionals. Surrounded by aunts and uncles who were dedicated to patient care, she developed an innate sense of responsibility and compassion. She took on the role of caregiver within her family, reinforcing her natural inclination to help others. Her academic and leadership excellence became evident early in her career, serving as the founding dean of the College of Nursing at Saint Mary’s University in the Philippines. Under her leadership, the program flourished and recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, a milestone that reflects Mona’s enduring impact on nursing education.
In 2004, Mona made the life-changing decision to immigrate to the United States, seeking new opportunities while ensuring a better future for her family. The transition came with challenges—adapting to a new healthcare system, cultural adjustments, and proving herself in a highly competitive environment—but she met them with unwavering determination. Over the years, she progressed through leadership roles, serving as Director, Assistant Vice President, Executive Director, Associate Chief Nursing Officer (ACNO), and ultimately, Vice President and CNO. Her ability to navigate complex healthcare landscapes, drive innovation, and mentor future leaders has earned her immense respect in the industry.
Mona’s passion for leadership, engagement, and resilience is deeply embedded in her scholarly work. Her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Vanderbilt University focused on nurse engagement and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s (IHI) Joy in Work framework, emphasizing the importance of fostering a supportive, fulfilling work environment for nurses. Despite balancing full-time work, leadership responsibilities, and family commitments, she persevered, earning her doctorate at the height of the pandemic—an achievement that underscores her tenacity and commitment to lifelong learning.
Her career is filled with notable achievements, including being named one of the Great 100 Nurses of Dallas-Fort Worth in 2014, receiving the Dr. Frist Humanitarian Award from Hospital Corporation of America (HCA), and most recently, the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. Under her leadership, she also led one of her organizations to achieve the prestigious Pathway to Excellence designation, a testament to her ability to create a positive nursing practice environment that prioritizes well-being, professional development, and high-quality patient care.
Mona acknowledges the challenges Filipino nurses face in the diaspora, including navigating cultural transitions, overcoming language barriers, and adapting to new healthcare systems. She believes that proactive adaptation and strong mentorship are crucial for success. Filipino nurses are widely recognized for their resilience, deep sense of purpose, and unparalleled dedication to patient care. These strengths have positioned them as essential contributors to global healthcare systems.
Beyond her executive role, Mona is actively involved in community service and professional advocacy. As President-Elect of the Philippine Nurses Association of Austin, Texas, she collaborates with fellow Filipino-American nursing leaders to provide continuing education, scholarships, and outreach programs that uplift the next generation of nurses. She is also a representative of the Texas Nurses Association (TNA) to the American Nurses Association Membership Assembly, where she contributes to policy development initiatives aimed at addressing workplace violence and enhancing nurse safety.
Mona’s leadership philosophy centers on intentionality and balance. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing time and energy for what truly matters—family, professional responsibilities, and personal well-being. She has mastered the art of setting boundaries while ensuring meaningful contributions to her field. Her ability to lead with empathy, foster innovation, and advocate for nurses’ well-being has solidified her legacy as a transformative leader in healthcare.
Looking ahead, Mona envisions a future where Filipino nurses are recognized as equal partners in advancing global healthcare. She believes in building opportunities for Filipino nurses to lead, innovate, and contribute at higher levels of decision-making. With their strong educational foundation, adaptability, and compassionate approach to care, she is confident that Filipino nurses will continue to make significant contributions worldwide.
Dr. Mona Gaw’s story is one of resilience, excellence, and service. From nursing education in the Philippines to executive leadership in the U.S., she has continuously raised the bar for nursing leadership. Her passion for mentorship, advocacy, and healthcare innovation makes her a guiding force in the profession, inspiring nurses globally to pursue excellence, lead with integrity, and serve with purpose.
