Howard University issued the following announcement on July 10.
Howard University Hospital (HUH) has appointed Crystal L. Wheeler as Chief People Officer. In her new role, she will have responsibility for the planning, development and implementation of HR strategies for HUH. Wheeler will also set the strategic direction for the hospital’s HR functions and create initiatives that align staff members with the organization’s long and short-term goals.
Prior to the appointment, Wheeler served as director of human resources for General Dynamics Information Technology in Fairfax, Va. She started her new position on July 9, 2018.
“Crystal comes to Howard with a wealth of knowledge, experience and proven leadership in all aspects of HR, having held senior-level positions in large, multi-national, Fortune 500 companies,” says James A. Diegel, FACHE, HUH Chief Executive Officer. “As a versatile, hands-on leader, she will implement strategies that promote the growth of our Caregivers as well as align their career goals with the overall mission, vision and values of the hospital. I’m confident that she’ll be a valuable asset and succeed in this new endeavor.”
Wheeler has more than 18 years of experience in corporate HR. At General Dynamics, she played an integral role guiding strategic HR initiatives, employee engagement and leadership development for more than 5,500 employees. Her efforts resulted in an increased level of employee retention and visible community engagement activities throughout the U.S., Canada and U.K.
Prior to General Dynamics, Wheeler worked as senior director of HR at USA Today in McLean, Va., in 2012. Serving as a core member of the executive team, she created key metrics and talent trends that supported critical decision-making and organizational growth. Wheeler went on to spearhead diversity efforts and provided strategic counsel to leaders on complex employee issues. She also managed the HR department’s $1 million budget, overseeing 8,500 employees.
From 2006 - 2011, Wheeler served Booz Allen Hamilton in multiple HR roles and also worked as an HR manager for the Northrop Grumman Corporation. In 2000, she was an employee development specialist for the Computer Sciences Corporation in Falls Church, Va.
“I am energized to be a part of Howard’s rich tradition and history,” says Wheeler. “As a person who is passionate about employee engagement and collaboration, I look forward to teaming with the hospital’s talented and diverse workforce to deliver high-quality programs and services. We have a goal to attract, develop and retain the best employees in the industry and build upon Howard’s strong legacy as a leading voice in healthcare.”
Wheeler holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration (marketing) from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, N.C., and a master’s in business and industry training from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va. She is an active member of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and possesses numerous certifications in project management, leadership training and coaching.
Original source can be found here.
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