Saratoga Standard

Melissa Gooley, RN, currently serves as the Northern Regional Practice Leader at Hudson Headwaters Health Network. She is responsible for overseeing healthcare services across Clinton, Franklin, and a portion of Essex counties. Her jurisdiction encompasses facilities in Champlain, Lake Placid, Malone, Plattsburgh, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake.

Born and raised in the North Country, Ms. Gooley has strong ties to her community. She earned her nursing degree locally and holds certificates in Executive Healthcare Leadership and Healthcare Change Management from Cornell University. With over two decades of service in primary care, Ms. Gooley is acknowledged for her steadfast commitment to understanding and addressing the healthcare needs of her region.

Since embarking on her nursing career in 2001, Ms. Gooley has emerged as a dynamic leader and fervent advocate. Her approachable and calming demeanor has acted as a stabilizing force during periods of change, setting a precedent of flexibility and positivity for her teams. Under her leadership, Hudson Headwaters has witnessed significant growth in the Northern Region, thereby increasing access to healthcare.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Gooley cherishes her role as a mother to 21-year-old triplets: Emma, Carter, and Logan. She actively contributes to her community by serving on various committees and boards including the HCR Advisory Committee, Champlain-Mooers EMS, Northern Tier Housing, the Samuel De Champlain History Center, North Country Chamber of Commerce, Champlain-Rouses Point Kiwanis Club; she is also a member of the Catholic Daughters of St. Mary's Parish in Champlain.

In 2023 she was honored as a Rural Health Champion of the Year by the Adirondack Rural Health Network - a program of Adirondack Health Institute. Ms. Gooley’s unwavering dedication continues to inspire those around her as she tirelessly works towards enhancing lives and contributing to the betterment of her community.

Ms. Gooley's commitment and service to our communities are exemplary. In recognition of her relentless dedication to improving the lives of those around her, Senator Dan Stec has proudly selected her as one of 2024’s New York State Senate Women of Distinction.