Marilyn is the executive chief nursing officer for Vanderbilt University Medical Center providing oversight for strategic initiatives and planning related to the provision of quality patient care for Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) and health system. She also serves as senior associate dean for Clinical Practice for Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. Vanderbilt University Medical Center achieved its third Magnet designation in 2017 which is an acknowledgement of excellence for nursing practice and leadership.
She has been at Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center since 1976. Since her arrival, she has held positions as Clinical Nurse Specialist, Director of Surgical Nursing, Director of Operational Improvement, Associate Hospital Director and CNO, and her current position as Executive Chief Nursing Officer. She is widely recognized for her leadership in nursing and healthcare; she is a board-certified nurse executive through the American Nurses Credentialing Center
Marilyn is a strong supporter and leader for Advanced Practice Nursing. She led the development of what is now the VUMC Office of Advanced Practice. Her leadership has supported the growth of Vanderbilt Advanced Practice to almost 2,000 individuals and the VUMC innovative models of practice and leadership to be nationally recognized. Her leadership role in healthcare has provided many opportunities for public speaking, media engagements and publications.
Ms. Dubree earned her Masters Degree in Nursing from Vanderbilt University and her Baccalaureate degree from the Medical College of Georgia.
Ms. Dubree is a Wharton Nurse Executive Fellow and a member of the American Nurses’ Association, Tennessee Nurses’ Association, American Organization of Nurse Executives, and Sigma Theta Tau. She served on the Tennessee Board of Nursing for five years.
Ms. Dubree serves as chair of the Governing Boards for Vanderbilt Home Care Services and Vanderbilt Stallworth Rehabilitation Hospital. Ms. Dubree served as President of the Renewal House Board and is past President and Board member of the Greater Nashville American Heart Association. She has also served on the Middle Tennessee Girls Scout Board and was a member of the 2005 Leadership Nashville class. Marilyn was honored as 1 of 10 outstanding “Women to Watch, Class of 2013” by Nashville Medical News and in 2016 was inducted to the YWCA Academy for Women of Achievement.