Clinch Valley Names Director of Infection Prevention

Director of Infection Prevention, Cassandra Smith

RICHLANDS, VA – Clinch Valley Medical Center is pleased to announce Cassandra Smith, MSN, RN, CCRN as its new Director of Infection Prevention, where she will lead the hospital’s efforts to protect patients, visitors, and staff through evidence-based infection prevention practices and quality improvement initiatives.

Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Cassandra found her way to SWVA in 2013. Cassandra’s nursing career began after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise in 2017. She started her career in the Intensive Care Unit at Johnston Memorial Hospital, caring for critically ill patients while developing a strong clinical foundation in high-acuity care.

Her dedication to clinical excellence and leadership led to her promotion as Assistant Nurse Manager of the ICU, where she supported frontline staff, coordinated patient care, and helped cultivate a culture centered on quality and teamwork.

Seeking to broaden her experience, Cassandra transitioned into travel nursing, working in healthcare facilities across multiple states during her time. The opportunity exposed her to a variety of hospital systems, patient populations, and best practices, providing valuable insight that she now brings to Clinch Valley Medical Center.

In 2025, Cassandra earned her Master of Science in Nursing Administration from Radford University, further strengthening her leadership skills and preparing her to guide organizational initiatives focused on patient safety and clinical excellence.

Now serving as Director of Infection Prevention, Cassandra will oversee the hospital’s infection prevention and control program, collaborating with physicians, nurses, and clinical teams to reduce healthcare-associated infections, promote regulatory compliance, and ensure a safe environment for everyone who enters Clinch Valley Medical Center.

“Patient safety has always been at the heart of everything I do,” said Smith. “Infection prevention is about more than policies and procedures—it’s about protecting our patients, supporting our caregivers, and building a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility. I’m honored to serve in this role and continue strengthening the outstanding work already taking place at Clinch Valley Medical Center.”

Hospital leadership says Cassandra’s diverse clinical background and experience already dealing with infection prevention makes her uniquely qualified to lead the Infection Prevention department.

“Cassandra has experienced healthcare from many perspectives—from bedside critical care and nursing leadership to travel nursing in hospitals across the country,” said Peter Mulkey, Chief Executive Officer of Clinch Valley Medical Center. “That broad experience, combined with her commitment to lifelong learning and patient safety, makes her an exceptional leader for this important role. We are excited to see the positive impact she will continue to make for our patients, staff, and community.”

Outside of the hospital, Cassandra enjoys getting back to a normal life after her travel nursing and spending time with her two sons, who keep her busy with practices, games, and sporting events throughout the year. When she’s not cheering from the sidelines, she embraces her adventurous side. Describing herself as an adrenaline junkie, Cassandra hopes to earn her pilot’s license someday—a goal that reflects her love of learning and taking on new challenges.

As Director of Infection Prevention, Cassandra looks forward to advancing initiatives that strengthen patient safety, enhance quality outcomes, and support Clinch Valley Medical Center’s mission of delivering exceptional healthcare close to home.