Grow with us: Meet Susan Elerding
Growing Through Every Opportunity
Starting her career as a new graduate nurse in the Coronary Care Unit, Susan Elerding, MHA, RN, CPHQ, CSSBB, has spent 37 years growing alongside TidalHealth. Each opportunity built on the last, leading her from bedside nursing to IT, Clinical Performance Improvement and now Director of Clinical Quality.
After graduating from Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Elerding relocated to the Eastern Shore and joined Peninsula Regional's CCU, where she spent nine years caring for patients at the bedside. A temporary opportunity to help build the organization's electronic medical record sparked a new passion for technology, analytics and quality improvement. What was expected to be a two-year assignment became a decade in IT before she transitioned into Clinical Performance Improvement and eventually her current role as Director of Clinical Quality.
Throughout her career, Elerding credits mentors who encouraged her to pursue new opportunities and earn her master's degree in healthcare administration. "I have been fortunate to have many people encourage and inspire me throughout my career," she said. "Being open to learning and willing to step outside of my comfort zone has allowed me to continue growing professionally."
That mindset has also guided her through major organizational changes, including the integration of multiple health systems. She believes successful leadership starts with being present, building relationships and working alongside others.
"I have learned that people really respect you for being present and getting to know them personally," she said. “Being present and collaborating with other team members is very important when you are implementing change.” While her responsibilities have evolved, her mission has remained the same.
"What continues to drive me is knowing that the work we do directly impacts patients, families and the teams caring for them," she said. "Quality and safety are not just about data or measures. They are about making care safer, more reliable and better for every patient."
As a leader, Elerding believes trust, communication and respect create strong teams. She is passionate about helping others grow and believes meaningful relationships have been the foundation of her own success.
When asked what "Grow with us" means, Elerding reflected on the advice that has shaped her own journey.
"My advice to others would be to stay curious, be willing to learn, say yes to new opportunities and surround yourself with people who challenge and support you," she said. "Growth often happens when you step outside your comfort zone."
Her career is a testament to lifelong learning, adaptability and leading with purpose, proving that growth is not about following a single path but embracing every opportunity to make a difference.
