Citing a 25-year record of leadership across various healthcare settings, Wellstar Health System has appointed a familiar face as Chief Operating Officer for their medical center opening next fall.
Nelson So has led startups, managed change, and fostered collaborations, making him a strong fit for Wellstar and the CSRA, according to Ralph Turner, President of Wellstar MCG Health and Senior Vice President for Wellstar. So will assume responsibility for all aspects of Wellstar Columbia County Medical Center, scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.
A retired Colonel with the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps, So has lived in the CSRA since he was stationed at Fort Gordon as Deputy Commander for Administration at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center. Prior positions include Commander of the 47th Combat Support Hospital at Joint Base Lewis McChord in the state of Washington and Commander of Wiesbaden Army Health Clinic in Wiesbaden, Germany. A seasoned strategist and collaborator, he also served as Chief of Congressional Affairs to two Army Surgeons General, shaping defense healthcare policy.
“I am so pleased to welcome Nelson So back to the Augusta area and into the Wellstar family. Nelson has extensive experience not only in leading healthcare organizations, but also in leading healthcare for our own military community. That makes him uniquely qualified to ensure our patients at Wellstar Columbia County receive the Wellstar standard of care,” Turner said.
So holds an MBA and MPH from George Washington University and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). He brings a unique combination of operational experience, policy insight, and people-first leadership.
