​Littleson brings four decades of healthcare leadership to the role, having served in executive positions at hospitals and health systems across the East Coast. Littleson has been CEO of Central Maine Healthcare since 2021. Before joining CMHC, he held the position of Chief Integration and Operating Officer at Lancaster General Health in Pennsylvania.

“Steve’s deep understanding of the healthcare landscape and his proven leadership at the helm of Central Maine Healthcare make him exceptionally well-suited to guide the MHA Board during this pivotal time,” said Steven Michaud, President of the Maine Hospital Association.  “We look forward to his leadership as we continue to advance the mission of hospitals throughout Maine.”

Littleson holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Gettysburg College, a master of health administration from the Milken Institute School of Public Health at The George Washington University, and a doctorate in business administration from Walden University. He is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).

Littleson succeeds outgoing Board Chair Chrissi Maguire, President and CEO of Mount Desert Island Hospital. Nate Howell, CEO of MaineGeneral Medical Center, is the MHA Board Chair-elect; Patrick Taylor, MD, CEO of York Hospital, is the new treasurer; and Randy Clark, President of Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital, is the new board secretary.

The at-large board members are Steve Diaz, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, MaineGeneral Health; Stephany Jacques, R.N., President, Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital; Greg LaFrancois, President, St. Joseph Hospital; Andy Mueller, M.D., Chief Executive Officer, MaineHealth; Andrea Patstone, Coastal Regional President MaineHealth; Bob Peterson, D.Sc., Chief Executive Officer, Millinocket Regional Hospital; Charlie Therrien, President, Northern Light Mercy Hospital; and Marie Vienneau, President, Northern Light C.A. Dean Hospital and Northern Light Mayo Hospital.

The new board officially assumes its duties July 1.

​The award, presented June 18 during MHA’s Summer Forum Conference at the Samoset Resort, honors a healthcare professional who demonstrates extraordinary compassion, clinical excellence, and dedication to patients and their communities.
 
Dr. Cole was selected not only for her clinical excellence but also for her deeply compassionate approach to patient care.  Known across the hospital as calm, responsive, and exceptionally kind, Cole has earned a reputation among staff and patients alike for her quiet but powerful presence.
 
“Dr. Cole embodies everything this award stands for,” said Steven Michaud, president of the Maine Hospital Association.  “Her empathy, professionalism, and commitment to care go far beyond the operating room.  She brings comfort and clarity to patients in their most vulnerable moments.”
 
Her nomination highlighted numerous examples of Dr. Cole’s compassion.  In one instance, Cole met with the family of a medically fragile patient.  And, despite not being the treating physician, calmly listened to their frustration and offered empathy and support.  In another, she stayed with a couple devastated by a cancer diagnosis, waiting until their son arrived so they could hear the news together, answering questions with grace and patience.
 
Dr. Cole also received praise from a first-time surgical patient, who wrote a heartfelt thank-you letter after their hospital stay.  The patient described how Dr. Cole’s clear communication, attentiveness, and visible commitment to her profession alleviated their fears and made them feel truly cared for.
 
Colleagues say Dr. Cole’s influence elevates everyone around her.  “Dr. Cole sets the bar high for herself, of course. But also, for those of us who have the pleasure of working on the same team,” said one Mercy staff member.
 
The Caregiver of the Year award is the Maine Hospital Association’s highest honor, given annually to recognize exceptional care providers in the state’s hospital community.