Meet the VHI Team

Get to know the dedicated experts who work hard to advance data access and insight to help strengthen and improve healthcare in Virginia.

Leadership

Kyle Russell

CEO

As CEO, Kyle leads VHI’s efforts to strengthen partnerships and expand its role as Virginia’s trusted health data resource. Since joining VHI in 2013 as a data analyst, he advanced through leadership roles in analytics and strategy before becoming CEO in 2021. Under Kyle’s leadership, VHI has grown steadily, expanding its team and programs while deepening its impact across the Commonwealth. Kyle holds a Master of Decision Analytics and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Virginia Commonwealth University and serves on the Boards of CIVITAS, NAHDO and Covenant Woods.

Deborah Waite

COO/CFO

Deborah joined VHI soon after its founding in 1993 and has seen the organization through every stage of growth. Now serving as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Deborah oversees daily operations and finances and enjoys the variety her role brings. Deborah’s experience and steady leadership have been key to VHI’s long-term stability and success as a trusted resource to the Commonwealth. Known for her deep knowledge of VHI’s history, Deborah approaches every challenge with insight, creativity and care for the people she works with.

Dawniece Lewis

Vice President of Reporting & Analytics

As Vice President of Reporting & Analytics, Dawniece oversees a dedicated team focused on operational excellence and strong partnerships that power VHI’s statewide data programs. Before joining VHI, Dawniece served as Director of Strategic Planning and Business Development at VCU Health System. She holds a Master of Public Health in Health Management and Policy from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing from Iowa State University. Her leadership ensures VHI’s data is accurate, accessible and meaningful.

Nichole Fawcett

Director of Administration

As VHI’s Director of Administration, Nichole leads initiatives that strengthen both the team and day-to-day operations. Since joining VHI in 2018 as a data analyst, she’s advanced through roles in analytics, process improvement and relationship management. Nichole holds a Master of Science in Health Information Technology from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor of Science in Business Information Technology from Virginia Tech. She is passionate about data education and team growth, helping build a culture of collaboration and shared success across VHI.

Kelly Richards

Director of Health Information Technology

As Director of Health Information Technology, Kelly leads the strategy, development and delivery of VHI’s statewide Health Information Exchange (HIE) and interoperability initiatives. Since joining VHI in 2019, Kelly has worked closely with health systems, state agencies and technology vendors to advance VHI’s technical infrastructure. Kelly is a certified Project Management Professional and brings a structured, solutions-driven approach to complex statewide projects, and is known for her steady leadership, collaborative style and commitment to making critical health information accessible.