Key Points:
- Hyland is retiring after nearly 40 years, having served as CEO since 2008 and growing the system to over 14,000 employees.
- Dr. Patrick Frias will succeed her, bringing prior experience from nearly two decades in senior roles at the organization.
- Her tenure saw major expansions, academic partnerships with Emory, and the opening of the Arthur M. Blank Hospital.
Donna Hyland, the longtime chief executive officer of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, has announced plans to retire later this year, bringing to a close a distinguished career that spans nearly 40 years with the organization. Hyland, who has served as CEO since 2008, played a pivotal role in shaping the institution into one of the largest and most influential pediatric healthcare systems in the United States.
Her retirement marks the end of a leadership era defined by expansion, innovation, and an unwavering focus on improving healthcare outcomes for children. During her tenure, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta experienced rapid growth in both its clinical capabilities and community reach. The nonprofit system now employs more than 14,000 people and provides care to hundreds of thousands of children each year through hospitals, specialty centers, and outpatient facilities.
The organization has already named its successor. Dr. Patrick Frias, currently serving as co-president and CEO of Rady Children’s Health in Southern California, will take over the leadership role. Frias is no stranger to the Atlanta-based healthcare system, having previously spent nearly two decades there in several senior roles, including cardiologist, chief physician officer, and chief operating officer.
Board leaders praised Donna Hyland’s legacy, describing her leadership as instrumental in expanding pediatric care across Georgia and strengthening the organization’s reputation nationally.
Building a National Pediatric Healthcare Leader
Donna Hyland first joined Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in 1986, when the organization was still evolving into the modern system it is today. Over the decades, she helped guide several major structural and strategic transformations that significantly expanded the organization’s capabilities.
One of the most significant developments during her time with the system was the integration of multiple pediatric facilities under one unified organization. Through key partnerships and mergers, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta grew into a comprehensive network that includes hospitals, specialty clinics, and research centers dedicated entirely to pediatric care.
The healthcare system also deepened its academic collaboration with the Emory University School of Medicine, strengthening its role as a leading hub for pediatric research and education. Over time, the partnership helped elevate the institution’s national research profile, particularly in securing federal funding for pediatric medical studies.
Donna Hyland’s leadership also guided the system through major infrastructure investments. In recent years, the organization has launched large-scale development projects designed to modernize pediatric care facilities and expand specialized treatment services. One of the most notable milestones was the opening of the Arthur M. Blank Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance advanced pediatric treatment, trauma care, and medical innovation.
Through these initiatives, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has grown into a nationally recognized leader in pediatric healthcare delivery, research, and clinical training.
A Leadership Transition and Lasting Legacy
As Hyland prepares to step away from her role, the organization is entering a new chapter with Dr. Patrick Frias set to lead its next phase of growth. Healthcare leaders say his return to Atlanta brings both continuity and fresh strategic direction, particularly as pediatric healthcare systems across the country navigate increasing demand, technological change, and evolving care models.
Frias is widely respected for his clinical expertise and collaborative leadership approach. His previous tenure at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta gives him a deep understanding of the institution’s mission and long-term priorities.
Donna Hyland’s contributions, however, extend far beyond the walls of the hospital system. Over the years, she has been actively involved in numerous civic and professional organizations, contributing to healthcare policy discussions, nonprofit initiatives, and regional economic development efforts. Her leadership has earned recognition across the healthcare industry as well as within the broader Atlanta community.
Reflecting on her career, Hyland has often emphasized the privilege of serving children and families during some of their most challenging moments. Under her guidance, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta evolved from a regional pediatric hospital network into a nationally respected institution known for innovation, research, and compassionate care.
As she concludes her tenure, the healthcare system she helped shape stands as one of the most influential pediatric medical organizations in the country, positioned to continue advancing child health for generations to come.
