Karen Kolega, DNP, MSN-CNL, RNC-OB, C-EFM, C-ONQS, FAWHONN

Chief Nursing Officer

With a rich history of perinatal experience, Dr. Karen “KK” Kolega is responsible for leading nursing strategies that support PeriGen’s mission and vision. She works with leaders in the company, industry partners, and thought leaders to foster collaborations across the obstetric care continuum to improve outcomes for moms, birthing families, and babies. 

Prior to joining PeriGen, she served as Divisional Director of Clinical Care at Universal Health Services (UHS) in Florida where she established clinical nursing standards across all acute care service lines and set initiatives that improved patient outcomes and nurse retention. She previously held leadership roles in Women’s and Children’s services, driving high‑reliability safety cultures and achieving significant reductions in obstetric risk. 

Dr. Kolega earned her DNP from the University of Central Florida in Nursing Executive Leadership and her Master’s in Clinical Nurse Leadership from the University of South Florida. She holds certifications in inpatient obstetric care, electronic fetal monitoring, and obstetric and neonatal safety. She is a member of Sigma Nursing, serves as an American Nurses Association Mentor, is the AWHONN Florida State Chair, and is a designated instructor for AWHONN EFM Intermediate and Advanced courses. She is also a recipient of the prestigious designation of AWHONN Fellow, a recognition awarded to nurse leaders who make substantive, sustained contributions.  

Known for building high‑performing teams and championing evidence‑based practice, her advocacy has been featured in national publications and podcasts. Her experience and expertise provide the PeriGen community with valuable resources for optimization.