Alan J. Lombardo has been named CEO of Sheltering Arms Institute — a joint venture between Sheltering Arms Hospital and VCU Health System — effective Feb. 1.

Throughout his career, Lombardo has held clinical and leadership positions at Veterans Health Administration facilities across the country. He currently serves as acting director of the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond.

“Alan has an extensive and successful history of executive-level health care leadership,” said Paul Wesolowski, chief operating officer of VCU Health System.

“His impressive capabilities are matched by his enthusiasm and passion for developing Sheltering Arms Institute as one of the top rehabilitation facilities in the nation,” said Mary Zweifel, president and CEO of Sheltering Arms.

Lombardo holds a master of science in physical therapy from Shenandoah University as well as master’s degrees in health care administration and business administration from Army-Baylor University.

In his new role, Lombardo will oversee the rehabilitation facility under construction in the West Creek Medical Park off Broad Street Road in Goochland County.

Sheltering Arms Institute combines the strengths of VCU Health and Sheltering Arms to provide care for individuals who have survived strokes, spinal cord injuries or brain injuries, as well as those in need of general rehabilitation for various neurological diseases and disorders. The 114-bed hospital is expected to open in mid-2020.

Sheltering Arms Institute will combine 68 beds from Sheltering Arms’ two inpatient facilities and 46 beds from the inpatient facility operated by VCU Health System. Outpatient services for both organizations will operate separately for now.