Candidate for Secretary, 2025 - 2027

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Joseph Gnolfo III, DNP, MS, BSN, CRNA, ACNP

Fast Facts About Joe

  • Lives in the Lighthouse Educational District
  • Works at Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital and St Charles Hospital
  • 15 years as a CRNA in New York

 Dr. Joseph Gnolfo III is a highly accomplished Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) with over 15 years of experience in clinical practice, education, and leadership. Holding a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Buffalo University and a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia from Saint Raphael’s School of Nurse Anesthesia, Dr. Gnolfo has been instrumental in advancing anesthesia practices at Stony Brook Medicine, where he serves as the Director of Nurse Anesthesia.

In his current role, Dr. Gnolfo has expanded the CRNA team, ensuring exceptional patient care and operational efficiency while fostering a collaborative work environment. His leadership extends to various multidisciplinary committees focused on improving patient outcomes, safety, procedural efficiency, and CRNA scope of practice.

Dr. Gnolfo is deeply committed to education, mentoring future nurse anesthetists, and actively participating in professional organizations like NYSANA and AANA. As a current NYSANA board member, he advocates for the well-being of CRNAs across New York State and supports initiatives to increase awareness and advance the field of nurse anesthesia.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Gnolfo is pursuing a Master of Public Health, demonstrating his dedication to broadening his impact on public health and healthcare policy. Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, which allows him to relax and recharge. Dr. Gnolfo is also a proud father of three beautiful children and is happily married, finding joy and inspiration in his family life.  He considers himself lucky and is reminded daily that life is a gift both at home and at work. 

What are the biggest challenges facing the profession?

The profession of nurse anesthesia faces several significant challenges, including the lack of consistent legislation recognizing Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) as advanced practice providers in all 50 states. Unfortunately, New York remains the last state to grant this recognition, a critical step in ensuring CRNAs can practice to the full extent of their training and expertise. Another ongoing challenge is navigating an environment where the cost of care continues to rise while reimbursements decline, necessitating innovative strategies to secure and improve services. It is essential to focus on supporting and engaging nurse anesthesia residents to prepare them to become competent, safe providers and future leaders in our field.

What experiences, ideas, connection or resources do you have that would allow you to help with those challenges?

As a CRNA with nearly 15 years of experience, a chief CRNA, and Director of Nurse Anesthesia Services for Stony Brook Medicine, as well as a board member of the New York State Association of Nurse Anesthetists (NYSANA), I have had the privilege of advocating for and networking with CRNAs across the country. My professional journey began with more than 20 years as a nurse, and my brief service in the NYPD further shaped my dedication to teamwork and leadership. These experiences have taught me that representing our profession often means prioritizing the greater good and the collective voice of those who trust me with their advocacy. 

Name one skill or strength you possess that is unmatched by your colleagues or peers

I have found strength in listening, learning, and surrounding myself with positive, dedicated individuals who share a commitment to advancing our practice.

What do you love about being a CRNA? What drew you to the profession?

Being a CRNA is a role I deeply love. From impacting lives during their most vulnerable moments to the work-life balance and collaboration with colleagues across disciplines, this profession continues to fulfill me daily. My path to nursing and nurse anesthesia was profoundly influenced by the loss of my father, an experience that showed me the compassionate power of nurses. It was further inspired by a cousin in nurse anesthesia who shared their passion for the field.

Please provide at least one idea you believe will engage or involve members to advance NYSANA’s mission.

I firmly believe that through building strong relationships and instilling confidence in others, we can unite to advance NYSANA’s mission and elevate our profession. Together, we can continue making a meaningful difference in our communities and the broader field of anesthesia