What is your secret to success?
There is actually no “secret.” I believe success derives from a combination of humility, hard work, ambition, vision, strong mentors and a good amount of luck.
How did you get started in your field?
As a finance major in college, I took an elective called “Health Care as a Business” and found it fascinating, so I shifted from a career path in banking to hospital management. It provided the opportunity for me to tackle complex business challenges in order to care for people, and that really inspired me.
What do you love best about what you do?
I love that my job is all about kids and, most importantly, the role of advocating for children. I believe that all children should have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential, and I am grateful to lead an organization where we can positively influence a child’s life in every aspect of our work.
What advice would you give to a young woman starting her career?
Rarely say “no” when asked to do more. Be open to the opportunity of doing a variety of things. Your path may not be exactly linear, but those unanticipated experiences are often invaluable in your overall career journey.
Which of your accomplishments are you most proud of?
Our safety journey at Arkansas Children’s. In pediatrics, the margin for error is very small, and unfortunately, mistakes can happen when systems fail. Our team is committed to building and following high reliability practices across all aspects of the organization, and that has had an incredible impact on the patients and families we serve.
How do you maintain a work-life balance?
I believe that work-life balance is different for every person. It does not mean allocating equal time and effort to all aspects of your life. There is no perfect equation, and what works best for me has shifted throughout my career, depending on my work responsibilities and the interests and needs of my family.
What obstacles have you had to overcome?
Like every executive, the list is long. I’ve survived a health system merger, at least one challenging boss and a few missed opportunities. I’ve been forgiven for misdirected frustration, missed deadlines and misguided decisions. Reliance on the success formula I described has helped overcome all of those obstacles.
Is there another “power woman” in your life who inspires you?
I’m lucky in that there are quite of few amazing female leaders in the children’s hospital space. I am inspired by their bold and compassionate leadership and the genuine friendship they offer colleagues like me.
