Howard University Hospital (HUH) has appointed Crystal L. Wheeler as Chief People Officer. In her new role, she will have responsibility for the planning, development and implementation of HR strategies for HUH and create initiatives that align staff members with the hospital's long and short-term goals.

"Crystal comes to Howard with a wealth of knowledge, experience and proven leadership in all aspects of HR, having held senior-level positions in large, multi-national, Fortune 500 companies," says James A. Diegel, FACHE, HUH Chief Executive Officer. "As a versatile, hands-on leader, she will implement strategies that promote the growth of our Caregivers as well as align their career goals with the overall mission, vision and values of the hospital. I'm confident that she'll be a valuable asset and succeed in this new endeavor."

Prior to the appointment, Wheeler served as director of human resources for General Dynamics Information Technology in Fairfax, Va., where she played an integral role guiding strategic HR initiatives, employee engagement and leadership development for more than 5,500 employees.

In 2012, Wheeler worked as senior director of HR at USA Today in McLean, Va., serving as a core member of the executive team, and managing the HR department's $1 million budget, overseeing 8,500 employees. From 2006 - 2011, she served Booz Allen Hamilton in multiple HR roles and also worked as an HR manager for the Northrop Grumman Corporation. In 2000, Wheeler was an employee development specialist for the Computer Sciences Corporation in Falls Church, Va.

"I am energized to be a part of Howard's rich tradition and history," says Wheeler. "As a person who is passionate about employee engagement and collaboration, I look forward to teaming with the hospital's talented workforce to deliver high-quality programs and services. We will attract, develop and retain the best employees in the industry and build upon Howard's strong legacy as a leading voice in healthcare."

Wheeler holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, N.C., and a master's in business and industry training from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va. She is an active member of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and possesses certifications in project management, leadership training and coaching.