Candidate for
Board of Directors; Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System

Deborah Nelson received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Boston University. She entered healthcare by way of the Navy, rising from enlisted status to Captain where she served in multiple positions of leadership.

She has been a nurse practitioner in women's health care and primary care in Salinas for over 20 years. Her practice includes a multicultural representation of Salinas. She is fluent in Spanish. Nelson has also been an educator of student nurses for Hartnell College at Natividad Medical Center and on the critical care staff at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. The Association of Hospitals and Health Systems named her Trustee of the Year and California State University recognized her as a Distinguished Fellow for her military medical achievements.

Nelson has been a member of the Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System Board since 1988 and currently serves as Vice President. As a nurse practitioner, she understands the need for improved access to excellent medical care. Debby is a strong leader that responds to the rapidly evolving ways health care is delivered in our community.

Debby has four grown children including one adopted from each Mexico and the Philippines.