Greenville, N.C. – Brian Dunn, chief financial officer, ECU Health, has been named one of Becker’s Hospital Review’s 41 Rural Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know for 2026 in its newly released list. The recognition comes after Dunn was named CFO in July 2026 to oversee financial operations for both ECU Health and the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University.
“This recognition reflects the hard work to help position ECU Health as the national model for sustainable academic rural health care,” Dunn said. “As we continue to work toward meeting our mission to improve the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina, we must continue to be mindful of our fiscal health and resource management. We remain focused on being responsible stewards of our resources so we can continue investing in the people, programs and services our communities depend on.”
Rural hospitals are essential safety nets for their communities, caring for populations with greater need, fewer resources and less margin for error than almost any other type of health care institution. The CFOs who steward rural hospitals’ finances make the decisions that help keep these organizations financially viable. Through disciplined strategy and careful resource allocation, these executives help ensure rural communities can continue to access affordable, high-quality care close to home.
“Brian’s recognition by Becker’s reflects both his exceptional leadership and his deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural health care,” said Dr. Michael Waldrum, CEO of ECU Health and dean of the Brody School of Medicine.
“He brings a strategic approach that helps ensure we can continue expanding access to high-quality care, advancing our academic mission and meeting the evolving needs of the communities we serve. We are fortunate to have his leadership as we continue building the future of health care in eastern North Carolina.”
Becker’s Hospital Review accepted nominations and curated the list to highlight the outstanding accomplishments of rural hospital CFOs across the country. The full list, which includes individual profiles of each honoree, can be viewed on Becker’s website.