Merit Health River Region Welcomes New CEO, Nicholas Arledge
8/13/2025
Vicksburg, MS, August 13, 2025. – Merit Health River Region has announced the appointment of Nicholas “Nick” Arledge as its new chief executive officer, effective August 11, 2025. Arledge brings more than 25 years of healthcare leadership experience, combining both administrative and clinical expertise, to his new role in Vicksburg.
Arledge joins Merit Health River Region from Carlsbad Medical Center (CMC) in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where he served as CEO since 2021. During his tenure, he led CMC through significant growth, expanding service lines, developing new clinical services, recruiting specialty providers, and launching a graduate medical education program. His previous roles include serving as interim CEO of TMC Bonham Hospital in Bonham, Texas, and director of physician and ambulatory services for the same regional health system.
In addition to his extensive administrative background, Arledge began his career as a clinician, trained by the U.S. Army as an emergency medical technician (EMT) and radiologic technologist.
He earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas at Austin, his Master of Business Administration from St. Edward’s University, and his Master of Public Health from Yale University.
“We are thrilled to welcome Nick to Merit Health River Region,” said Dr. Mark Stanley, board chairman of Merit Health River Region. “His proven track record in hospital leadership, commitment to patient care, and ability to foster growth make him an ideal choice to lead our hospital into the future.”
Arledge succeeds Interim CEO Mark Gregson, whose leadership over the past several months has been instrumental during this transition.
“I’m honored to join the Merit Health River Region team,” Arledge said. “I look forward to working with our talented physicians, staff, and community partners to continue providing high-quality, compassionate care to the people of Vicksburg and the surrounding area.”
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