Duke Health Lake Norman Leadership Team
At Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital, our leadership team is committed to putting people first by fostering a culture of excellence, compassion, and collaboration. Together, they provide strategic direction and support for our mission to deliver outstanding care and improve the health of the community we serve.
Kristie Barazsu: President & Chief Operating Officer
Kristie Barazsu is an experienced healthcare executive with over 20 years of progressive leadership experience in hospital operations, patient flow, and support services. In April 2025, she was appointed President and COO of Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital after serving in the interim role during the transition of Lake Norman Regional Medical Center into Duke Health, with the completion of the hospital acquisition April 1, 2025.
Leigh Bleecker, MBA, MHA: Assistant Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Leigh Bleecker is the Assistant Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer for Duke Raleigh Hospital, a Campus of Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, and Duke Lake Norman Hospital. She has been a part of the Duke Health Finance team since 2002. Leigh has also had the privilege of serving as Interim President of Duke Raleigh Hospital on two occasions.
Andrew Gross, MD: Chief Medical Officer
Andrew Gross, MD, is a neurologist/neuro-ophthalmologist who started his career at Lake Norman in 2014 in his hometown of Mooresville, North Carolina. He has served on and chaired several committees as well as Chief of Staff before being appointed as the initial Chief Medical Officer of Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital.
Miranda Mathis-Harris, RN, BSN, MBA,CNML: Chief Nursing Officer
With 35 years of nursing experience, Miranda has a proven track record of leadership at Duke University Hospital, where she has successfully optimized patient flow and placement processes, leading to significant improvements in operational efficiency and patient care.
Leigh Whitfield, MBA: Chief of Public Affairs
Leigh Whitfield is an accomplished healthcare communications and marketing executive with more than 30 years of experience in strategic planning, hospital operations, brand development, and community engagement. She has a proven track record of leading high‑impact initiatives that enhance the patient experience, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and support organizational growth.