BRIDGEPORT, CT (July 8, 2026) – Bridgeport Hospital has named its 2026 Physician of the Year and Nurse Manager of the Year, recognizing two exceptional leaders whose dedication, expertise and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on patients, colleagues and the organization.
Justin Cahill, MD, was named the 2026 Physician of the Year at the annual Medical Staff dinner in June. As chair of Emergency Medicine, Dr. Cahill plays a vital leadership role in one of the hospital’s busiest departments, fostering a culture of teamwork, collaboration and excellence. He works closely with physicians, nurses and staff across the Emergency Department to ensure patients receive timely, high-quality care while driving initiatives that enhance the overall patient experience. Through his leadership, the department has strengthened its focus on communication, efficiency and compassionate care, helping patients and families navigate some of their most challenging moments with confidence and support.
"Dr. Cahill has earned the respect of colleagues throughout Bridgeport Hospital through his commitment to clinical excellence, his ability to bring teams together around a common purpose and his relentless focus on delivering an outstanding experience for every patient,” said Victor Morris, MD, chief medical officer. “In a fast-paced environment where every second matters, he leads with vision, compassion and an unwavering dedication to those we serve."
Marie Pham, RN, was named the 2026 Nurse Manager of the Year at the Evening of Nursing and Philanthropy held during Nurses Week. Pham, who serves as the nurse manager for the Ambulatory Surgery Center at Park Avenue Medical Center in Trumbull, exemplifies exceptional nursing leadership through her compassion, integrity and unwavering commitment to both her staff and her patients. She understands that nursing is not only about clinical excellence or performance metrics, but deeply human work that requires empathy, understanding and connection.
“Whether supporting a team member through a difficult patient situation, acknowledging emotional fatigue or celebrating important personal and professional milestones, Marie ensures that every individual feels seen, valued and respected,” said Mary Christoffersen, DNP, RN, chief nursing officer at Bridgeport Hospital. “She leads with intention and authenticity, fostering a culture built on trust, collaboration and mutual support.”
Bridgeport Hospital, part of Yale New Haven Health, is a non-profit 501-bed acute care hospital with two campuses (plus 42 beds licensed to Yale New Haven Children's Hospital). Its Bridgeport and Milford Campuses serve patients from across the region. The hospital admits more than 23,000 patients and provides nearly 350,000 outpatient treatments annually. The Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital is the only burn center in the state and one of only 64 verified burn centers in the United States. Bridgeport Hospital is committed to providing safe, compassionate and cost efficient care to its patients and the community. www.bridgeporthospital.org
