Ruth Marler, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer at UNC Health Johnston has been named the 2025 recipient of the ATHENA International Leadership Award, which honors women who demonstrate professional excellence, community service and mentorship.
Maureen McGuinness, President and CEO of the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce presented the award at a dinner celebrating Marler and twelve other Athena Award finalists for their contributions to the community and their professions.
Over her 43-year healthcare career, Marler has led transformative initiatives at UNC Health Johnston, including telehealth integration, digital rounding tools and community-based behavioral health programs. During the pandemic, she helped establish Community Monoclonal Antibody Clinics that saved lives across Johnston County. Her leadership has earned national recognition for clinical excellence and patient safety.
Beyond healthcare, Marler has served local organizations addressing homelessness, mental health and substance use, and has created mentorship, externship and scholarship programs supporting women in healthcare. Many of those she has guided now hold leadership roles themselves.
A lifelong Johnston County resident, Marler plans to retire later this year, leaving a legacy of compassionate leadership, community service and dedication to developing future leaders.
