We are so grateful for each and every one of the medical providers who currently volunteer with us, but the need is still great.
“Do it. It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do in medicine right now.”
- Dr. Andrew Dudas
“Although I retired, the joy of giving tugged me back... I consider it a privilege to be able to do this.”
- Dr. Reed Baskin
Church Health’s patient population is uninsured and underserved. Many live without the resources others take for granted - stable housing, access to healthful foods, and access to proper healthcare. You can help us care for them.
P r o v id e hop e and h e aling f or our c ommunit y tod a y ChurchHealth.org/volunteer/volunteer-medical-providers
Cover photo taken at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women.
Message from the Publisher…
Greetings Readers!
Welcome to this 13th edition of InCharge magazine! While Memphis Medical News has been publishing our newspapers for over 25 years, InCharge came along in 2013. It was a great idea that’s turned into a useful resource for decision makers, leaders and influencers in the Memphis medical community.
InCharge is also an opportunity for us to showcase the deserving healthcare executives who keep our hospitals and medical clinics running as smoothly as a well-played symphony. And every symphony needs a good conductor – the one who manages the tempo, the one who everyone looks to keep the beat. This magazine is full of world class conductors.
Our first stop in the search for top conductors, aka 2026 cover honorees, was Downtown Memphis with the selection of Dr. Trey Eubanks, President of LeBonheur Children’s Hospital. Dr. Eubanks has been leading LeBonheur since 2023. LeBonheur, as you may know, is the second largest children’s hospital in the state of Tennessee and consistently makes the US News and World Report’s Best Children’s Hospital list. While Dr. Eubanks first started out to become a pharmacist – like both of his parents -- he discovered a passion for working with children and a knack for surgery, so ultimately, he became a pediatric surgeon. We’re fortunate that this father of five and grandfather of three chose to make his home in Memphis and LeBonheur.
Before leaving downtown, we stopped at UTHSC in search of a superstar to represent the very important nursing segment of our medical community. Who better to talk to than the Dean of the UTHSC College of Nursing, Wendy Likes? She’s an internationally recognized expert in the prevention and treatment of HPV-related cancers and leads the POWER for Nursing Program which advances oncology nursing education and the need for skilled oncology nurses. Wendy is also a Memphis girl through and through and is dedicated to making a difference in this great city and state of ours.
The third stop on this journey took us to Crosstown Concourse where the very unique and essential Church Health now resides. Jennie Robbins stepped into the CEO
position at Church Health within the last year succeeding its founder Dr. Scott Morris. Jennie left her banking career in 2007 to become the CFO of Church Health. I know her well from the old Midsouth MGMA days when she served as president of that organization. Having grown up in the New Orleans area, Jennie is a leader who will help usher Church Health through many more years of serving our city’s working poor.
In order to find rising star Parker Harris, I might have to drive to Covington to catch him at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Tipton where he serves as CEO. Or I could stop at the Baptist Cancer Center in East Memphis where Parker also serves as Administrator of the Oncology line! You won’t meet a nicer fellow or a more competent leader than Parker Harris. Be sure and read his update on the cancer center in our cover story – we’re fortunate to have this expertise in Memphis. He’s a family man to top it all off and certainly one to watch in Memphis healthcare!
Lastly, we stopped in Germantown where the dynamic Dr. Gregory Vidal captured our attention. An oncologist specializing in breast oncology and research for West Cancer Center, Dr. Vidal has been on the national stage this year advocating for cancer patients. His journey to Memphis began in the Caribbean island of Dominica, then to Ole Miss (of all places!) then Tulane University and then Stanford University for his Internal Medicine Residency and Oncology Fellowship. We’re very fortunate that he chose to work and make his home in Memphis.
In this year’s InCharge, we offer you a fresh slate of 100 healthcare executives currently in Memphis. Some are new to this directory, and others previously listed have moved on. As with everything, there’s always change. We hope you find this magazine a useful resource in the work you are doing as well. Please send us your comments, suggestions and nominations for future issues. Have a great 2026!
Pamela Z. Haskins Owner, Publisher pamela@memphismedicalnews.com
Downtown to Crosstown to Germantown
Five Memphis Experts Tell What it Takes to Offer World Class Healthcare
No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it.
–H. E. Luccock
A well-run hospital or medical clinic is much a like a symphony… with many moving parts. It doesn’t work without top notch providers, but you also need talented leaders and administrators to make everything run in sync. Here we offer you a few of Memphis’s best. Enjoy!
Trey Eubanks, MD
Current practice: President, LeBonheur Children’s Hospital
Birthplace + Where did you grow up?
Born in Clarksdale, I grew up in Tunica, Mississippi.
Where did you attend college and medical school?
Ole Miss (University of Mississippi)
What are your parents’ names and what were their occupations?
Diane and Jimmy Eubanks. Both of my parents were Pharmacists in Tunica, Mississippi.
When we interviewed you for a profile story in 2024, you mentioned Dr. Fred Rushton, a general surgeon, who greatly influenced your career. What mentoring advice would you give to aspiring doctors and new healthcare leaders?
Remember your WHY. Always go back to the reason you went into health care in the first place.
Often as our careers grow and we move “up the ladder,” we can forget WHY we went into medicine in the first place. I believe that forgetting this can lead to making poor career decisions.
The WHY that I am referring to is our desire to improve the health and wellness of patients. We can never forget that. How has your experience growing up with two pharmacists, working at your parent’s pharmacy and then getting your Pharmacy degree helped you in your work today?
I know that it helps me understand how complex health care has become and it helps me appreciate our need as health care leaders to partner with the health care leaders in small communities like small town pharmacists and others to ensure we our patients get the best care possible in their communities.
Can you explain when and how the Le Bonheur/St. Jude partnership involving surgeries and hospital stays came about and how it works today?
St. Jude is a great partner and as St. Jude has grown, so has Le Bonheur. Currently the physicians at Le Bonheur support much of the clinical care provided to both surgical and non-surgical patients at St. Jude. Le Bonheur has partnered with St. Jude to recruit outstanding faculty for both facilities. These faculty understand that while our missions may vary slightly, we are “connected at the hip” around a shared vision of providing outstanding care for children with cancer.
What specific childhood disease trends are most concerning to you now?
The rise of chronic childhood illnesses like diabetes and
obesity, as well as the increase in behavioral and mental health challenges, is very concerning.
On the flip side of that, what advances in pediatric surgery have come about in the last decade that have made the biggest difference in patient outcomes?
Without a doubt, the advent of minimally invasive surgery and robotic surgery has been a huge advance. Catheter-based therapy for children has also advanced tremendously. I am proud to say that Le Bonheur was a leader in these innovative advances. Our surgeons were some of the pioneers in minimally invasive and robotic surgery in children. Likewise, our interventional cardiologists and neuro-interventionalists are doing incredible things for patients. Look to Le Bonheur for even more advances to come in the future.
What do you like to do in your free time? Any hobbies?
I enjoy hunting, fishing, anything Ole Miss sports related and traveling with my family.
Is there anything we didn’t ask that you’d like to pass on to your peers in the Memphis medical community or any medical students who read this?
Don’t listen to the pessimists around the current state of health care. There are more advances to be developed and many patients who need our help. The younger generation may look to health care today and see a field that seems under attack or possibly a career that seems too difficult to attain. Ignore the outside noise... if you feel called to help the sick and injured then pursue that dream and join those of us in that endeavor. It is a highly rewarding career with endless challenges for smart young innovative minds.
Parker Harris
Current
practice: CEO
of Baptist Memorial HospitalTipton and Administrator of the Baptist Oncology Service Line
Birthplace + Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Jackson, Tennessee. I graduated from South Side High School prior to moving to Memphis for my undergraduate degree.
Where did you attend college?
I attended the University of Memphis, earning a Bachelor of Science in accounting in 2013 and a master’s degree in health administration in 2016.
What are your parents’ names and what were their occupations?
My parents are Roger and Tamra Harris. My father has been in the car business all his life and has spent the last 15 years of his career at Robinson Toyota. I inherited my negotiating skills from him. My mother returned to the workforce when I was around 10. She worked at the Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN in a clerical capacity, which was one of my first exposures to the business of health care. She later shifted to the medical billing department for a large DME company. She just retired last month after more than 20 years!
What would you say are significant events or experiences that brought you to where you are today?
Having early mentors that challenged me to pursue uncommon paths really made significant impacts. My journey in health care began with an administrative residency at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis. A few years later, I was blessed to be selected for The Dr. Frank
Groner Administrative Fellowship Program at Baptist Memorial Health Care, which provided additional hands-on experience in hospital and clinic operations. Key milestones were advancing to serve as an administrative director for hospital and affiliate integration, where I helped lead transitions such as the shared mission agreement with Mississippi Baptist Medical Center. In January 2019, I was appointed CEO of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton, and more recently, I’ve taken on leadership of the oncology service line. These experiences in integration, operations and rural health care have shaped my focus on community-centered care and system-wide improvement. Are there any special mentors to your career you might want to mention?
Bill Appling is a health care leader in Memphis who is also a family friend. This connection helped guide me into health care. Bill led me to the University of Memphis’s MHA program and connected me with many local leaders. The University of Memphis’s program was full of excellent faculty and adjunct professors that trained us well for the real world.
I’ve also been fortunate to have served under seven different vice presidents at Baptist. Each of them has allowed me to learn different leadership and management styles. It has been such a blessing and impact to have strong mentorship within the Baptist system from senior leaders who emphasized operational excellence, patientcentered decision-making and leadership development. The supportive culture at Baptist continues to provide growth and opportunity. I’m also grateful for guidance from colleagues in local professional organizations like the American College of Healthcare Executives.
What new advancements or innovations in cancer care do you see as game changers?
We’re seeing transformative progress in precision medicine, immunotherapy and AI integration. CAR-T cell treatments and Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes are
expanding treatment options. At Baptist Cancer Center, we’re excited about bringing these to patients through expanded clinical trials and targeted therapies that are becoming standards for previously challenging cancers.
One of the most meaningful outcomes for Baptist has been the increase in incidental pulmonary nodules identified. We have partnered with a company called Eon to use computational linguistics to increase our ability to identify pulmonary nodules. In 2024, we identified 7,160 incidental findings. With the help of this recent technology, we found more than 16,000 in 2025.
You have what seems to be two full-time jobs. How do you manage your time?
Leading both the hospital in Tipton County and the oncology service line requires having a strong and exceptional team around me. I rely on delegation, structured scheduling and focusing more on strategic oversight rather than day-to-day micromanagement. Regular communication across sites and leveraging technology for efficiency are critical. The overlap in missions—providing compassionate, accessible care—makes it rewarding, and Baptist’s supportive leadership structure allows me to balance both effectively.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time? Any hobbies?
In my limited free time, I enjoy spending it with my family, including my wife Amanda and our three children. We love the outdoors and traveling, taking impromptu trips and exploring unfamiliar places.
Is there anything we didn’t ask that you’d like to pass on to your peers in the Memphis medical community or is there any advice you could offer to aspiring healthcare leaders who may read this?
To my peers in the Memphis medical community: Let’s continue collaborating to address regional needs and rural access. For aspiring leaders: Embrace early opportunities like fellowships, seek mentors relentlessly and always prioritize patient and community impact over titles. Health care leadership is about service, resilience and continuous learning; stay curious and committed to improving lives.
Wendy M. Likes, PhD, DNSc, FAANP, FAAN
Current
practice: Dean, UTHSC College of Nursing
Birthplace + Where did you grow up?
I was born in Columbus, Mississippi, but raised in the Memphis area near Shelby Forest. I am a Memphian through and through with my roots strongly connected to Memphis and the state of Tennessee. I think this connection to my state and my community fuels my passion for improving the lives of Tennesseans.
Where did you attend college and nursing school?
I started at Arkansas State University and got my associate’s degree in nursing and had the honor to begin working at St. Jude Children’s Hospital while I went back to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Memphis. I immediately pursued a Master’s in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center. While working as a nurse practitioner, I decided I wanted to obtain a doctoral degree and
What would you say were the significant events, experience or mentors who helped bring you to where you are today? I have been so fortunate in my professional life with many mentors and experiences that shaped who I am. My early experiences at St. Jude afforded me the opportunity to work a few days a month with the fabulous Dr. Pam Hinds in the nursing research department. This fueled my passion for research and better understanding and exploring the journeys our patients experience and how we as nurses can best assist them. I wouldn’t be in academic nursing if it wasn’t for the support and encouragement of Dr. Cheryl Stegbauer who encouraged me to think about teaching as a career.
went back to UT Health Science Center and got my Doctor of Nursing Science (DNSc) and was recruited to join UT Health Science Center as a faculty member in the College of Nursing. That was in 2004. After joining as a faculty member, I began my PhD in Nursing Science at UT and graduated in 2019.
What are your parents’ names and what were their occupations?
My parents are Chuck and Diane Rowe. I am truly fortunate to have very supportive parents. My father started a family business with my grandfather, Indmar Products. After many years of hard and dedicated effort, they grew the business into the largest privately owned inboard marine engine company in the world. My mother did double duty as a stay-at-home mom with four daughters while also helping grow the family business in whatever spare time she had. My parents instilled a strong and resilient work ethic in me.
In an interview we did with Dean Hocker in October, he talked about how teaching medical students has changed over the years. Can you discuss how teaching and training nurses has changed over time? Nursing education has transformed just as dramatically as medical education because the role of the nurse has expanded from task-based bedside care to complex clinical judgment, leadership, and community-focused practice. The evolution is shaped by technology, shifting healthcare needs, and a deeper understanding of what prepares nurses to thrive. Early nursing education in the U.S. was rooted in hands-on, hospital-based apprenticeship models. Nurses learned primarily by doing, often
with minimal formal instruction. Over time, nursing shifted into university-based programs that blend science, theory, and clinical practice — a transformation shaped by societal change, professionalization, and advances in healthcare. Technology has reshaped how nurses learn. Modern nursing education now incorporates simulation labs, virtual reality, online coursework, and AI-supported learning tools. Interprofessional education is essential in today’s world. Nurses today train alongside medical students, pharmacists, social workers, and other disciplines to prepare for team-based care. This reflects the reality of modern healthcare, where collaboration is central to patient outcomes. Critical thinking and clinical judgment take center stage. Where nursing education once emphasized memorization and task completion, today’s programs prioritize clinical reasoning, decision-making, and leadership. This shift reflects the increasingly complex role nurses play in acute care, chronic disease management, and community health.
Can you tell us about the work that made you an international expert in prevention, recognition and treatment of HPV-related cancers? While working in gynecologic oncology, I developed a passion for preventing what I saw so much of - pain and suffering due to the diagnosis of cancer. The one area I could make the biggest impact was preventing cancer in the first place through identification of HPVrelated pre-cancerous conditions. It started with my patients asking questions that I could not answer – the literature and science were not there. That is when I decided I would do the research to answer those questions. My patients mostly cared about how the things we were doing to treat them were going to impact their lives. They wanted to know about quality of life and sexual function while so many of their other health care providers focused on survival.
continued on page 10
Why Choose Us?
• Board-certified orthopaedic spine specialists
• Innovative treatments backed by years of research
• Ultra minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery
• Physiatry specialists that provide minor interventions, such as spinal cord stimulation and biologics
• State-of-the-art rehabilitation for fractures and trauma
• Complex and deformity spine surgery, including fusions
• Center for Bone Health and outpatient kyphoplasty
Jennie N. Robbins
Current practice: CEO, Church Health Center
Birthplace + Where did you grow up?
New Orleans, Louisiana
Where did you attend college?
Louisiana State University, University of New Orleans
What are your parents’ names and what were their occupations?
Joe Novotny, Hotelier & Restaurateur in New Orleans
Ruth Ann Martin, Executive Vice President, Hibernia Bank & Capital One
Coming from a banking career, what appealed to you about leading a healthcare organization like Church Health?
After years in banking, I found myself wanting something more work that felt deeply connected to service and purpose. The nonprofit mission of Church Health immediately spoke to me, especially being part of a community of people who truly feel called to care for others. I also thought I might be stepping into a slower pace than banking—but that assumption didn’t last long. Church Health moves quickly because the needs are real and urgent. What drew me in, and what’s kept me here, is the opportunity to use my business background in a way that directly impacts lives right here in Memphis, every single day. Who were the mentors that influenced you most in your career?
Ann Langston has had a tremendous influence on me. She modeled what thoughtful, valuesdriven leadership looks like—how to be strategic while always
keeping people at the center of decisions. I still lean on lessons I learned from her as I navigate leadership today.
How many people does Church Health serve each year, and how has that changed since moving to Crosstown?
Each year, Church Health provides tens of thousands of patient encounters, serving thousands of unique individuals across primary care, dental, behavioral health, eye care, and specialty services. Our focus has never been just on volume, but on continuity of care—walking alongside patients over time and helping them manage their health in a meaningful way. Since moving to Crosstown, our approach has continued to evolve. The space has allowed us to deepen collaboration, integrate services more intentionally, and focus on coordinated care. While demand continues to grow, our emphasis remains on delivering high-quality, relationship-based care that’s sustainable for both patients and providers.
The MEMPHIS Plan sounds like a truly good idea. Has it been successful, and how have local employers embraced it?
The MEMPHIS Plan is the program I was hired to lead when I joined Church Health back in 2007. From the beginning, it represented what this city does best—coming together to solve problems collaboratively.
The plan brings employers, hospitals, volunteers, and Church Health together to provide access to care while adding real value for small businesses. Employers appreciate the focus on prevention, access, and costeffective care, and the program has become both a strong community partnership and an important revenue source that supports our mission.
In your physician volunteer program, are there certain specialists you currently need?
What time commitment are you looking for?
We are grateful for physicians from nearly every specialty, and we truly can utilize a wide range of expertise. Right now, our greatest needs are in neurosurgery, neurology, orthopedics, and urology, particularly for more procedurebased care.
Physicians can volunteer onsite at Church Health clinic, where they’re supported by a scribe and able to focus fully on patient care. Our ideal commitment is one half day per month, but we’re very flexible. We also work with specialists who prefer to see patients in their own practices, and we can tailor referrals to match whatever capacity they’re able to offer.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I laugh a little at the phrase “free time,” but when I find it, I love being with friends and family. I’m happiest near the water— whether that’s the beach or watching the sunset at Horseshoe Lake.
Is there anything new on the horizon for Church Health you’d like to share with the Memphis medical community, or advice for aspiring healthcare leaders?
We’re continuing to sharpen our focus on strong primary care—treating immediate needs while also emphasizing prevention and long-term health, especially for the patients we serve . As specialty access becomes more limited across the healthcare landscape, we see Church Health playing an even stronger role as a bridge, helping patients access the care they need in an increasingly complex system. For those looking to lead in healthcare, my advice is to stay focused on the fundamentals: strong processes, clear purpose, and a deep understanding of the community you serve. When you keep people at the center of the work, the rest tends to follow.
Gregory Vidal, MD, PhD
Current practice: Chairman, West Cancer Center & Research Institute
Birthplace + Where did you grow up?
Portsmouth, Commonwealth of Dominica
Where did you attend college and medical school?
BS/MS: University of Mississippi
research, and business provided an alternative to traditional academic pathways and significantly broadened my professional outlook.
Also, Lee S. Schwartzberg, MD: Co-founder of West Cancer Center & Research Institute and the individual who recruited me to Memphis. He has been among the most influential mentors in my recent career. As a visionary leader of a world-class clinical and research enterprise, his impact on community oncology nationally—and my affiliation with WCCRI—has significantly elevated my professional visibility.
standard imaging scans. Identifying these changes sooner could allow doctors to adjust treatment earlier and improve the chances of longterm control or cure.
When considering cancer care more broadly, immunotherapy has been one of the most groundbreaking developments in recent years. However, in breast cancer, its benefits currently apply to only certain patients, particularly some with triple-negative disease. For this reason, precision medicine guided by molecular testing is still a central and powerful tool in breast cancer treatment today.
MD/PhD: Tulane University
Internal Medicine Residency: Stanford University
Oncology Fellowship: Stanford University
What are your parents’ names and what were their occupations?
Mother: Vinia Green Shop Keeper
Father: Huron Vidal Police Officer
When we interviewed you in 2020 (https://memphismedicalnews. com/article/1144/loving-what-hedoes) you mentioned a couple of mentors in your life, Dr. Steven D’Surney and Professor Frank Jones at Tulane. Is there anybody else who has become valuable counsel, and has there been any particular experience that helped shape who you are today?
Besides Dr. D’Surney and Professor Frank Jones, I can name Mark Pegram, MD a Professor at Stanford University and a global leader in breast cancer research. His seminal contributions to HER2positive breast cancer have directly translated into curative therapies for countless women. He has been a close friend, mentor, and confidant, playing a pivotal role in guiding my career trajectory, opening national and international opportunities, and serving as a trusted sounding board for complex clinical, research, and career decisions. His perspective on the intersection of oncology,
In your opinion, what are the most significant breakthroughs you have seen over the years in breast cancer research?
One of the most important advances in breast cancer care in recent years has been our ability to better understand each person’s cancer at a molecular level. By studying cancer cells taken from a biopsy—or increasingly, from a simple blood test—doctors can learn what is driving the cancer’s growth and use that information to guide treatment decisions.
Traditionally, this information came from a tissue biopsy, which involves removing a small piece of the tumor. While still very important, researchers have also discovered that cancer cells release tiny fragments of their DNA into the bloodstream. These fragments, called circulating tumor DNA, can now be detected through blood tests often referred to as “liquid biopsies.” These tests are less invasive than traditional biopsies and can provide a broader, real-time picture of cancer activity throughout the body rather than from just one sampled area.
This deeper understanding allows doctors to choose treatments that are more precisely matched to the cancer, a strategy known as precision medicine. In addition to helping select treatments, measuring circulating tumor DNA can give important clues about how much cancer is present and how well a treatment is working.
Researchers are also studying how these blood-based tests might detect signs of cancer returning or treatments stop working earlier than
What advancements or innovations in breast cancer care have created better outcomes for your patients? For instance, how have genealogy studies improved treatment?
Combining immunotherapy with chemotherapy has led to important improvements in outcomes for people with some of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer, particularly triple-negative breast cancer. In some cases, this approach has increased the chance of longterm remission and cure.
Another major advance in breast cancer treatment is the development of antibody–drug conjugates, often called ADCs. These are a newer type of cancer medicine designed to deliver chemotherapy more precisely. ADCs work by attaching a powerful cancer-killing drug to an antibody that recognizes and binds to specific markers on cancer cells. This allows the treatment to act like a “guided missile,” delivering therapy directly to cancer cells while limiting damage to healthy cells.
Traditional chemotherapy affects both cancer cells and normal cells, which is why it can cause significant side effects. ADCs help reduce this problem by concentrating the treatment where it is needed most— inside the cancer cells themselves. This targeted delivery improves effectiveness while lowering unwanted side effects.
Several ADCs are now approved for use in breast cancer, and studies have shown that they work better than standard chemotherapy in many situations. Patients are living
continued on page 10
Wendy M.
Likes,
continued from page 6
They wanted, of course, to survive, but they wanted to do so with a livable quality of life. This desire to answer those questions led to many wonderful and impactful connections throughout the years that allowed me to collaborate with national and international experts and participate with others throughout the globe who had the same desire I did for these patients.
What advice would you give to those contemplating a nursing career? What personal qualities help produce a great nurse? Stepping into a nursing career is a big, meaningful decision. It is a wonderful career of service where you give so much to others and make an impact like many other professions may not get to experience. It is rewarding and looking back as a nurse, you can certainly feel you made a difference and helped others through some of the hardest times of their lives. Not many
professionals can say they had the honor of being hand in hand with other human beings in this way. But it is not easy. Patients and families rely on you during their most vulnerable moments. Healthcare evolves constantly. Great nurses stay curious, keep updating their skills, and embrace recent technologies and practices. I feel the most important qualities for a great nurse are having empathy while knowing boundaries, ability to be calm under pressure, effective communication skills, good critical thinking, resilience and adaptability, and most importantly, having genuine compassion.
What do you like to do in your free time? Any hobbies? Now that my husband and I are empty nesters, we are going to commit to doing a bit of traveling. We have an Alaskan Cruise planned for this next spring and plan to do one nice trip a year together.
Gregory Vidal, continued from page 9
longer, experiencing better disease control, and in some cases achieving long-lasting remission. Research in this area is rapidly expanding, with many new ADCs being tested, including some that carry treatments other than traditional chemotherapy.
What have you learned from being on the national stage advocating for cancer patients?
It has reinforced for me that, despite extraordinary progress in cancer research and treatment, we still have significant work to do to ensure that cures and high-quality care reach everyone.
One of the most important lessons I have learned is that major disparities in cancer outcomes persist, even in the most technologically advanced and resource-rich settings. Too often, a patient’s experience and outcome after a cancer diagnosis are influenced by factors unrelated to the disease itself—such as income, geographic location, race, gender,
education, social support, and other social determinants of health. These realities make it clear that advancing cancer care is not solely about developing new therapies, but also about ensuring that clinicians are aware of available treatments and that patients can access them.
What do you consider the most important accomplishments in your career?
That is a challenging question, as my career is very much still evolving. At this stage, however, I believe my most meaningful accomplishment has been advancing representation in cancer care and research—an impact that may be difficult to quantify but has been profoundly important.
On both national and international stages in oncology, I have often found myself in spaces where there are few, if any, people of color present. Yet these are the very settings where critical decisions are made—decisions about clinical trial design, insurance coverage, research
Is there anything we didn’t ask that you’d like to pass on to your peers in the Memphis medical community or any nursing students who read this? Memphis healthcare is built on the backs of people who show up day after day with grit, compassion, and a kind of quiet courage that rarely gets into the spotlight. Even when it feels routine to you, it’s life-changing to someone else. Whether you’re in a trauma bay, a clinic, a classroom, or a long-term care facility, all health care providers contribute to the health and dignity of your community. For the nursing students, you belong here long before you feel ready. Confidence grows with experience, but compassion is something you already carry. Every nurse you admire once stood exactly where you are — unsure, overwhelmed, and wondering if they’d ever “get it.” Growth happens quietly, shift by shift. Stay resilient, stay curious, and stay compassionate.
priorities, and healthcare policies that directly affect cancer patients. When diverse voices are absent from these discussions, the needs and experiences of many patient populations are at risk of being overlooked, which can ultimately influence outcomes.
In my current national leadership roles, a central part of my work has been to ensure that underrepresented communities have a voice at the table.
Another key area of impact has been addressing biological factors that disproportionately affect certain populations. For example, some individuals of African descent have naturally lower white blood cell counts due to a common, benign genetic variation. Historically, rigid laboratory thresholds in clinical trials excluded these individuals despite the absence of any health risk. Advocacy to modernize these criteria has helped prevent
continued on page 42
AKaren Adams, CMPE
Director of Operations
Semmes Murphey Clinic
6325 Humphreys Boulevard Memphis, TN 38120
901-522-7700
smc-info@semmesmurphey.com
Adams serves as the Director of Operations at Semmes Murphey Clinic, overseeing the logistical operations to ensure alignment with the organization’s mission and objectives. With a tenure of over two decades at Semmes Murphey, she has spent many years in leadership, including time as Clinic Manager before assuming her current role. She holds a B.S.Ed. in Education from Abilene Christian University and is a Board-Certified Medical Practice Executive. Adams also served as the 2019 President of the MidSouth Medical Group Management Association.
Ike Anand President, Chief Executive Officer ALSAC
501 Saint Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105
866-278-5833
Stjude.org
Anand leads ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As a leader in nonprofit advancement and strategic growth, Anand oversees global fundraising, brand stewardship, and partnerships that support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude. Since joining ALSAC, Anand has spearheaded the organization’s digital transformation, enhancing technology and digital platforms, donor services, and the operational foundation critical to achieving ALSAC’s strategic goals. Under Anand’s leadership, ALSAC has set and achieved ambitious targets, delivering industry-leading revenue while maintaining low operational costs. His strategic vision ensures that donor contributions are maximized for impact.
Chris Anderson Executive Vice President/ Chief Operating Officer
Baptist Memorial Health Care
350 North Humphreys Blvd. Memphis, TN 38120
901-227-4140
Chris.Anderson@ BMHCC.org
Anderson was promoted to executive vice president/chief operating officer for Baptist Memorial Health Care on October 1, 2023. He previously served as VP of operations for Baptist Memorial’s metro market and VP of operations for Baptist Memorial’s Mississippi market, which included nine hospitals in Central and North Mississippi. Anderson joined Baptist in 2017 after Baptist Memorial and Mississippi Baptist Health Systems signed a shared mission agreement. Prior to that, Anderson served as president/CEO of Mississippi Baptist Health Systems from 2014 to 2017. In total, he has served as a health system CEO for 19 years and worked in health care for more than 35 years.
Kimberly Avery, BBA, MBA, JD Chief Executive Officer/Administrator Mid- South Pulmonary Specialists, PC 5050 Poplar Ave., Suite 800 Memphis, TN 38157
901-276-2662 mspulmonary.com
Avery graduated with a BBA in International Business, an MBA in Healthcare Economics, and a Juris Doctorate all from the University of Memphis. She was named administrator of Mid-South Pulmonary Specialists, PC, in September of 1998. Since then, she helped grow the practice from five physicians to over forty-three providers specializing in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. Success has come from working with all three hospital systems in Memphis as well as embracing change and being willing to constantly restructure the way the physicians practice to meet the
needs of the evolving healthcare market. Having such high-quality physicians who care about their patients has also been an integral part of the success of Mid-South Pulmonary Specialists, P.C.
Cara Azhar
Senior Director, Physician and Practice Engagement
Memphis Medical Society and Memphis Medical Foundation 1067 Cresthaven Road
Memphis, TN 38119 901-761-0200 mdmemphis.org
Azhar serves as Senior Director, Physician and Practice Engagement for the Memphis Medical Society. Before joining the Medical Society in 2019, she served in various roles with non-profit organizations and as the Executive Director of the Northeast Arkansas Board of REALTORS® Azhar holds positions with the MidSouth Medical Group Management Association (MS-MGMA) and the Mid-South Health Care Executives (MHCE). She earned a B.S. in Strategic Communications and Marketing from Arkansas State University.
BScott Balentine, MBA, MHA, FACHEA President MidSouth Health Care Executives/ ACHE of West Tennessee
Manager, IT Disaster Recovery Program
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare 5865 Shelby Oaks Circle Memphis, TN 38134 901-516-0132
Scott.Balentine@ mlh.org
Balentine leads the IT disaster recovery program for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, ensuring organizational resilience and continuity. Holding MBA and MHA degrees from
Western Governors University, he is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and certified in business continuity and crisis response. Scott contributes thought leadership serving on the Editorial Advisory Board for the Disaster Recovery Journal and the Healthcare Committee for the Disaster Recovery Institute. He serves locally as a Germantown Commissioner, while advancing healthcare leadership by service on the Board of the American College of Healthcare Executives of West Tennessee.
Brian M. Barbeito, MBA, MSHA, FACHE, FRBMA Chief Executive Officer
Mid-South Imaging & Therapeutics, P.A. Vascular Interventional Physicians 7600 Wolf River Blvd., Suite 200 Germantown, TN 38138 901-747-1000 msit.com
Barbeito serves as CEO or Midsouth Imaging and Therapeutics, PA a large multispecialty radiology practice serving Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas. He is a Fellow with the American College of Healthcare Executives as well as a Fellow with the Radiology Business Management Association.
Kerri Baxter, DNP Acting Medical Center Director/CEO VA Memphis Health Care 1030 Jefferson Avenue Memphis, TN 38104-2127 901-577-7201 www.memphis. va.gov
Dr. Baxter has been employed by VHA since January 1998, holding a wide variety of clinical and leadership roles. Additionally, she is a valued strategic partner with stakeholders to improve Veteran outcomes and enhance the workplace for employees across
Dr. Daniel Chatham ARLINGTON
the enterprise. In her current role as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) in VISN 9 she collaborates to improve Veteran experience, enhance clinical quality outcomes, support clinical staff through a shared governance approach and incorporates evidence-based research to resolve complex healthcare issues. She oversees nursing practice at five large, medically complex facilities and community-based outpatient clinics in Tennessee and Kentucky. Within the region Dr. Baxter oversees Whole Health, Clinical Contact Center, Telehealth/Rural Health, Veteran Experience, Nurse Resource, Social Work, Nursing Informatics, Sterile Processing, Geriatrics and Rehab, and M2VA. She received a BSN in 1997, an MBA/with a Heath Care Management emphasis in 2005 and her DNP from Old Dominion University in 2014.
David Baytos
Senior Vice President and President Methodist Olive Branch Hospital
4250 Bethel Rd. Olive Branch, MS 38654
662-932-9000 methodisthealth.org/ olivebranch
Baytos joined Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare in 1998 as president of Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital. He became president of Methodist Olive Branch Hospital in 2009 to coordinate the development of the healthcare system’s north Mississippi hospital, which opened to patients in August 2013. Additionally, he oversees Methodist Le Bonheur’s international consulting services and during his tenure with Methodist has served as either President or Interim President for Methodist’s North, South, and University Hospitals. Baytos earned a Master of Healthcare Administration from Xavier University, and volunteers for multiple civic and community organizations throughout Mississippi and Tennessee.
Peter Buckley, MD Chancellor
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Mooney Building 875 Monroe Ave., Suite 300 Memphis, TN 38163
901.448.4796
pbuckle2@uthsc.edu
The 11th chancellor of UT Health Science Center, Buckley is a psychiatrist and expert in schizophrenia. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and serves as an expert reviewer for the National Institute of Mental Health. With a background of studies in brain imaging and neurodevelopment, he has received numerous awards for his academic, clinical, and research work. Buckley previously served as dean of the School of Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and executive vice president of medical affairs for the VCU Health System. He serves on the steering committee of the Alliance of Academic Health Centers International and on the
boards of directors for the Memphis Chamber of Commerce, Memphis Tomorrow, the Memphis Medical District Collaborative. Dr. Buckley was previously honored with the 2023 Leadership Award from the American Association of Chairs of Departments of Psychiatry and with distinguished service membership by the Association of American Medical Colleges in 2022.
Robert Burns Principal/CEO
Clearly MD 8110 North Brother Blvd. Memphis, TN 38133 901-373-8949
clearlymd.com
Having managed medical practices for over 40 years, Burns currently serves as co-owner and CEO for ClearlyMD Practice Solutions and is responsible for the development and management of Memphis’ largest women’s health practice, Memphis Obstetrics and Gynecological Association, PC (MOGA). A graduate of Memphis State University, (now University of Memphis), Burns has
consulted with multiple practices throughout his career, having been instrumental in many local practice start-ups, mergers, and acquisitions. ClearlyMD offers a full range of practice services including billing, human resources, marketing, IT, and financial management. Throughout the years, he has served in various positions with MGMA, OBGA, and Mid-South MGMA.
CPaul Cade
Vice
President, Market Operations-Metro Baptist Memorial Health Care
Chief Executive Officer/Administrator
Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis 6019 Walnut Grove Road
Memphis, TN 38120 901-226-0505
Paul.Cade@ BMHCC.org
Cade is the vice president of market operations-metro and CEO/ administrator of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis. In this role, Cade oversees operations for Baptist Memphis, Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women, the Spence and Becky Wilson Baptist Children’s Hospital, Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville, Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton and Baptist Cancer Center. Cade began his health care career with Baptist in 1993 and served as CEO/ administrator of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle from 2008 to 2023. Under his leadership, the hospital was recognized for quality by numerous organizations. Cade also served in other roles at Baptist Golden Triangle, including assistant administrator from 2004 to 2008 and administrative director of clinical operations-Willowbrook Services, behavioral health for Baptist Golden Triangle, from 1999 to 2001. Cade also served as administrator and CEO of Baptist Memorial HospitalForrest City from 2002 to 2004 and assistant administrator of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union County from 2001 to 2002. Cade has a Master of Education from Mississippi State University and a master’s in
administration with a concentration in health care from Central Michigan University.
James Cagle, CPA, FHFMA
Chief Financial Officer
West Cancer Center 7945 Wolf River Blvd.
Germantown, TN 38138
901-683-0055 westcancercenter. com
Cagle brought 30+ years of financial operations experience to West Cancer Center. He served eight years prior as CFO for a large behavioral health company, Strategic Behavioral Health, LLC. Cagle rose from Audit Staff Accountant Supervisor to Audit Partner over a 23-year period at Horne CPA Group before joining Strategic Behavioral Health. He has shaped and implemented fiscal policies and procedures to maximize cash flow and manage expenses to ensure the future of outstanding cancer care. His collaborative, hands-on approach, knowledge, and commitment to excellence will benefit patients and staff for years to come.
Brad Canada, MD
Chief Medical Officer University
Clinical Health 1068 Cresthaven Rd, Suite 300 Memphis, TN 38119
901-866-8864 universityclinical health.com
Dr. Canada has served as University Clinical Health’s Chief Medical Officer since 2004. He acts as a liaison between UCH physicians and administrators and ensures UCH’s goals align with University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) goals. Additionally, he is also a practicing nephrologist. Canada earned his Master of Science and Doctor of Medicine degrees from UTHSC and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Mississippi. He holds certifications in Nephrology and Internal Medicine from the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Paul Carruth, MD Managing Partner Memphis Radiological PC 6401 Poplar Ave., Ste 220 Memphis, TN 38118 901-685-2696 memphisradiological.com
Dr. Carruth joined Memphis Radiological P.C. in 1997. He is a Tennessee native; and attended Memphis State University for 3 years prior to entering medical school. He earned his medical degree at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency in Diagnostic Radiology at the Methodist University Hospital of Memphis. He then completed his fellowship in Ultrasound at Vanderbilt University. Dr. Carruth is Board certified by the American Board of Radiology and a Fellow of the American College of Radiology. Dr. Carruth is also board certified by the American Board of Radiology. His professional memberships include the American College of Radiology, Tennessee Radiological Society, Radiological Society of North America, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, and Christian Medical Dental Society.
Zach Chandler
Executive Vice President/Chief Strategy Officer
Baptist Memorial Health Care 350 North Humphreys Blvd. Memphis, TN 38120 901-227-5137 zach.chandler@ bmhcc.org
Chandler serves as Baptist Memorial Health Care’s executive vice president and chief strategy officer. After completing his Frank Groner administrative fellowship at Baptist, Chandler held several leadership roles within the organization, including serving as CEO and administrator at four Baptist Memorial hospitals. He also served as vice president and head of metro-Memphis operations and prior to that, vice president and head of regional operations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Baylor University and a master’s degree in health
administration from Washington University. In addition to his leadership roles at Baptist, he spent two years as president of Methodist Charlton Medical Center in Dallas. The American College of Healthcare Executives has honored Chandler with its Early Career Healthcare Executive Award.
Allison Bosse Chase Chief Executive Officer and Administrator Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women and Spence and Becky Wilson Baptist Children’s Hospital
Memorial Hospital for Women in May 2022. Chase joined Baptist in 2014 and quickly advanced from a graduate assistant in 2014 to associate administrator for Baptist Women’s Hospital in 2019 and pediatric service line administrator in 2021. A former Groner Fellow, Chase has worked on financial and operational management, budget planning and strategic development. She successfully aided in the deployment of a partnership with Vanderbilt Monroe Carell Children’s Hospital for pediatric specialty service coverage in pulmonology and urology and launched several programs at Baptist Children’s Hospital, including a Certified Diabetes Educator Telemedicine Program, an Adolescent Bariatric Surgery Program and Baptist Children’s Hospital Sleep Lab. Chase completed an internship with Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas in 2012 and a Master of Health Administration from the University of Memphis in 2016.
Chirag Chauhun, MBA, AIF, CFP
Managing Partner
Bluff City Advisory Group, LLC Board Member
Methodist Healthcare Foundation
7906 Players Forest Drive
Memphis, TN 38119 901-365-3447
Bluffcityadvisory. com
Chauhun is a Rhodes College graduate. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Memphis and received his Retirement Planning Specialist designation from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. In 2024, Chauhun became a member of the Methodist Healthcare Foundation board of directors. In addition, he is a member of the Methodist Germantown Hospital Advisory Council. Chauhun stays actively involved with the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, the Medical
Celebrating 150 years!
Medicine in Memphis of
Honoring a Legacy. Advancing the Future of Healthcare.
For 150 years, the Memphis Medical Society has united physicians, advocated for the profession, and strengthened the health of our community.
In 2026, we will celebrate this milestone with special events, recognitions, and initiatives honoring the past while shaping the future.
Join us as we commemorate 150 years of ser vice, leadership, and impact. Learn more: mdmemphis org
Group Management Association and the Memphis Estate Planning Council.
Reginald Coopwood, MD
President and Chief Executive Officer
Regional One Health 877 Jefferson Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103
901-545-7100 regionalonehealth. org
Dr. Coopwood has been president and CEO of Regional One Health since March 2010. He earned his medical degree from Meharry Medical College followed by a residency in General Surgery. Prior to joining Regional One Health, Dr. Coopwood served in leadership roles including CEO and CMO in other health systems. Dr. Coopwood’s work at Regional One Health is complemented by his commitment to the health and well-being of the individuals in our community. He serves as a board member of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee and the Memphis Medical District Collaborative. He is an alum of Leadership Memphis and serves on the Tennessee Hospital Association Board of Directors. He has earned numerous honors for his work in healthcare over the years, including being a 2022 Tennessee Health Care Hall of Fame inductee, Inside Memphis Business’ CEO of the Year in 2014; and the Tennessee Hospital Association’s CEO Meritorious Service Award in 2011, the Diversity Champion Award in 2013 and the President’s Award in 2016. Dr. Coopwood is married to Erica Coopwood, and the couple has five children.
Heather Crawford
Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare 1211 Union Ave. Suite 700 Memphis, TN 38104
901-478-0565
MethodistHealth.org
Crawford is senior vice president and chief nurse executive for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare. Previously, she held leadership roles at renowned healthcare institutions such as Sutter Health, ScionHealth and UCI Health. Crawford holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Sonoma State University, a Master of Business Administration and a Doctor of Business Administration in Leadership.
Martin Croce, MD, FACS
Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer
Regional One Health
877 Jefferson Avenue Memphis, TN 38103
901-545-7100
regionalonehealth. org
Dr. Croce transitioned to the role of senior vice president and chief medical officer in August of 2018 after a lengthy and distinguished career in one of the busiest trauma centers in the United States – the Elvis Presley Trauma Center at Regional One Health. As chief medical officer, Croce oversees quality, medical research, medical staff services, regulatory readiness and infection prevention for the system. Croce earned his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC). He completed a surgical residency and internship with UTHSC, followed by a surgical critical care fellowship at the University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital in Florida before returning to Memphis. Based on his training in trauma and surgical critical care, he started his career in the Trauma Center at Regional One Health, where he served as medical director 2000 to 2018. His interest
in research to improve patient outcomes flourished at the Trauma Center, resulting in over 350 peer reviewed publications. Croce’s current work focuses heavily on quality initiatives, promotion of medical and surgical research, enhancing the physician/administration relationship and exploring new opportunities for patient care.
John R. Crockarell, Jr., M.D., M.B.A. Chief of Staff
Campbell Clinic
1900 W. Poplar Ave. Collierville TN, 38017 901-759-3100
campbellclinic.com
Dr. Crockarell joined Campbell Clinic in July of 1997 and was elected Chief of Staff of Campbell Clinic effective January 1, 2026. A specialist in total joint replacement, Dr. Crockarell is a Professor in the UT-Campbell Clinic Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and a respected leader in adult orthopaedic reconstruction, including hip and knee replacement and revision surgery. He completed his medical degree at the University of Tennessee - Memphis, residency at UT-Campbell Clinic, and a fellowship in Adult Reconstruction at Mayo Clinic.
Rebecca Cullison, FACHE
Senior Vice President and President Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital
Cullison is President of Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital and Senior Vice President of Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare. She leads a 319-bed hospital recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top regional facility with comprehensive cardiac and women’s services programs. She began her career with Methodist in 2004 and previously served as CEO of The Village at Germantown. She holds a Master of
Science in Health Administration and Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Active in the community, she serves on multiple boards including the United Way and Germantown Performing Arts Center.
Clint F. Cummins, MHA
Chief Executive Officer
Memphis Medical Society, MedTemps and Memphis Medical Foundation 1067 Cresthaven Road Memphis, TN 38119-3833 901-761-0200 mdmemphis.org
Cummins has more than 21 years of executive leadership and advocacy experience in healthcare and nonprofit organizations. He serves nationally as Secretary-Treasurer of the American Association of Medical Society Executives (AAMSE). He serves locally as a volunteer leader for Mid-South Medical Group Management Association (MSMGMA), Vitalant Community Leadership Council, Woodland Presbyterian School, and as Chair of the Distribution Committee for the Dorothy Snider Foundation. At the state level he was recently appointed as Treasurer for Tennessee Charitable Care Network and has joined the Steering Committee for the Tennessee Rural Health Care Center of Excellence. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee-Martin and a Master of Healthcare Administration from the University of Memphis.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105 901-595-3300
stjude.org
Dr. Downing is president and chief executive officer of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As the architect of a six-year strategic plan that will result in more than $12.9 billion in new construction on the St. Jude campus, he is leading the expansion of St. Jude clinical care and research programs around the globe. Downing is renowned. leader in pediatric cancer research. His work is focused on understanding the genetic basis of cancer and using that information to improve treatments. He was instrumental. in launching the Pediatric Cancer Genome Project, an ambitious sequencing effort to discover why childhood cancer arises, spreads and resists treatment. Beyond research, Dr. Downing has been a driving force to take St. Jude to the world. Under his tenure, the hospital has developed a program focused on raising pediatric cancer survival rates internationally.
Archie Drake
Senior Vice President and President
Methodist University Hospital 1265 Union Ave. Memphis, TN 38104 901-516-7000
MethodistHealth. org/university
Drake joined Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare in 2025 as president of Methodist University Hospital. Archie most recently served as CEO of Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. Archie spent the first decade of his career as a bedside nurse, which prepared him to lead improvements in patient experience and outcomes while also enhancing the work environment for caregivers. He earned his BSN from the University of Texas at Arlington and his MBA in strategic leadership from Amberton University.
Greg Duckett
Executive Vice President/Chief Legal Officer
Baptist Memorial Health Care
350 N. Humphreys Blvd. Memphis, TN 38120
901-227-5233
greg.duckett@ bmhcc.org
Duckett joined Baptist Memorial Health Care in 1992. He directs all legal services associated with Baptist Memorial Health Care and has coordinated several mergers and acquisitions on behalf of the corporation, the largest of which was the acquisition of Mississippi Baptist Health Systems in Jackson, Mississippi. As the chief legal officer for Baptist, Duckett has overseen several complex transactions that have led to new initiatives in health care. He was instrumental in some of the early physician practice acquisitions in the Memphis area. Additionally, he is responsible for risk management, corporate compliance, privacy and security, and the legal
and regulatory department. He is also a fellow of the Memphis Bar Foundation and the American Health Lawyers. Duckett was acknowledged in the April 2018 edition of the Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the “50 African American Leaders in Healthcare to Know” and was honored in 2020 as a Memphis Living Legend..
EDebbie Eddlestone Chief Executive Officer
Stern Cardiovascular 8060 Wolf River Blvd.
Germantown, TN 38138
901-271-1000 Sterncardio.com
Eddlestone, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Stern Cardiovascular, one of the nation’s leading cardiology clinics. With over 25 years’ experience in healthcare leadership, she has transformed
LONG, STRONG & WELL
G.
McDonald
Stern into a model of innovation, patient care, and operational excellence. Under Eddlestone’s leadership, Stern has expanded its footprint, introducing state-of-the art technologies and advanced cardiac care programs that have set new standards in the field. In addition to overseeing clinic operations, she is dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and compassionate care, ensuring that Stern Cardiovascular remains at the forefront of cardiovascular medicine.
In his role as chief operating officer, Edgerson oversees operations in the Pharmacy, Lab, Radiology, Rehabilitation Services, Nutrition, Spiritual Care, Child Life, Social
We provide physician-led, advanced, personalized, science-backed therapies, and a full 360° approach to help you feel energized, balanced, and strong.
From peptide therapy and hormone optimization to comprehensive wellness and aesthetics - your plan is designed around you. CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR FACE, MIND, & BODY Official BTL Training Center
PROUDLY SERVING THE MID-SOUTH FOR OVER 25 YEARS.
Work, Volunteer Services and Respiratory Care. He joined the Le Bonheur family in 2006 and served as director of Pharmacy before moving into his current position. In addition to his work at Le Bonheur, he has held the offices of President and Secretary/Treasurer for TSHP and been involved in various professional organizations such as TPA, Children’s Hospital Association, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, and the UTHSC Pharmacy Alumni Board. Edgerson earned his PharmD from Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, completed his residency training at The Ohio State University Medical Center and earned his master’s from The Ohio State University.
Baylee
Less-Eiseman Director of Development Memphis Jewish Home
36 Bazeberry Road Cordova, TN 38018
901-756-3273 Bless@ memphisjewishhome.org
As the Director of Development for Memphis Jewish Home & Rehab, Less-Eiseman is responsible for overseeing all fundraising, marketing, and community relations for the organization. A native Memphian, she returned home after four years at the University of Maryland where she received a double degree in English and Jewish Studies. Prior to her role at MJHR, she worked at Youth Villages, Temple Israel, and the Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation. She also serves on the board of directors for Music Export Memphis, a local nonprofit that supports working musicians, and is pursuing her MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Memphis.
James W. Eubanks, MD, FACS President Le Bonheur
Children’s Hospital
848 Adams Ave. Memphis, TN 38103
901-287-5437
LeBonheur.org
Dr. Eubanks is president of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. He is a pediatric surgeon and has served Le Bonheur for more than 20 years. Eubanks holds a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of Mississippi, and he attended medical school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Eubanks completed a general surgery residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center followed by a pediatric surgery fellowship at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Eubanks has served in several leadership roles at Le Bonheur, including Trauma Medical Director from 2004-2018. Among his many accomplishments, Eubanks was instrumental in Le Bonheur earning the American College of Surgeons Level I Pediatric Trauma designation. He held the role of surgeon-in-chief from 2015 to 2025 and previously served as chief of the medical staff for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare. A native Mississippian, Dr. Eubanks is the father of five and grandfather to three.
Hella Ewing, MSM, RN
Chief Nursing Officer
Le Bonheur
Children’s Hospital
848 Adams Ave. Memphis, TN 38103
901-287-5437
LeBonheur.org
Ewing is chief nursing officer at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. She has significant leadership experience at major children’s hospitals and is a well-respected nursing leader. She most recently served as CNO at Lucille Packard / Stanford Children’s Hospital in California and prior to that was CNO at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital in Knoxville, Tenn. Ewing earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Florida
State University, and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration Management from Troy State University.
FThomas C. Ferguson MD, FACHE
Chief of Staff/Chief Medical Officer
VA Memphis Health Care
1030 Jefferson Ave.
Memphis, TN 38104-2127
901-577-7202
memphis.va.gov
Ferguson serves as Chief of Staff for the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Memphis. In this capacity, he has overall responsibility for the medical support operations of a level 1A tertiary care facility delivering medical care, treatment, and services within a 220-bed inpatient facility and nine Community Based Outpatient Clinics covering 53 counties in West Tennessee, Eastern Arkansas and Northern Mississippi. Dr. Ferguson is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He has previously served as Chief of Primary Care, Associate Chief of Staff for Ambulatory Care, Acting Deputy Chief of Staff, and the Interim Executive Director at the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers, Jr. VAMC. Before joining the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2008, Dr. Ferguson was a partner in a private practice affiliated with Methodist/Le Bonheur Healthcare.
Eric Gibson Principal/Chief Financial Officer
Clearly MD 8110 North Brother Blvd. Bartlett, TN 38133
901-373-2459
clearlymd.com
For over 25 years, Gibson has worked exclusively in healthcare and physician practice management and consulting and is currently co-owner and CFO for Clearly MD, LLC, a medical practice management services company. His experience includes financial and operational management, information technology solutions, and benefits and human resources administration. He is a graduate of Union University and serves as Treasurer on the boards of Tennessee MGMA and Mid-South MGMA.
Teresa
Golden,
RN, BSOL Practice Manager
Mid- South Pulmonary Specialists, PC 5050 Poplar Ave., Suite 800 Memphis, TN 38157
901-276-2662 mspulmonary.com
Golden has been with Mid-South Pulmonary Specialists for over 25 years. She has an Associate of Science in Nursing from Southwest Community College. She also has a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Healthcare Management from Union University. She attributes the success of Mid-South Pulmonary Specialists, P.C. to working with highly skilled physicians who practice within the scope of their knowledge base yet remain flexible and easily adaptable to changes in the healthcare market.
Michael Granieri, MD President
Conrad Pearson Clinic
1325 Wolf Park Drive, Suite 102
Germantown, TN 38138
901-252-3400
www.conradpearson. com
Dr. Granieri is the current president of the Conrad Pearson Clinic. He completed both his undergraduate and medical education at Northwestern University, graduating with distinction, before completing a surgical internship and urology residency at Duke University. He then pursued advanced subspecialty training with a one-year fellowship in Male Reproductive Health and Reconstructive Surgery at NYU Langone Medical Center, during which he also received advanced training and certification in Male Infertility Microsurgery at the Cornell University Institute for Reproductive Medicine. Dr. Granieri is a boardcertified urologist specializing in male infertility, reconstructive and prosthetic urology, brachytherapy treatment for prostate cancer, and restorative treatments that improve quality of life, including care for erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. He is the only fellowship-trained specialist in Male Infertility and Reconstructive/ Prosthetic Surgery in the greater Memphis area.
Mitch Graves Chief Executive Officer
West Cancer Center
7945 Wolf River Blvd.
Germantown, TN 38138
901-683-0055
westcancercenter. org
Graves has over 35 years of leadership experience in healthcare. As CEO of West Cancer Center since 2019, he is creating a culture that focuses on clinical excellence, research, education, patient centric care, recruitment and retention of top talent, and growth of patient
access to care throughout the Mid-south. Prior to joining West Cancer Center, he served as CEO of HealthChoice, LLC and prior to that was a senior executive for 25 years at Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare. Graves serves on the Church Health Center’s finance committee and is board chairman for Memphis Light Gas and Water.
Nicole Gust Assistant Medical Center Director VA Memphis Health Care
1030 Jefferson Ave. Memphis, TN 38104-2127 901-577-7201 www.memphis. va.gov
Gust began her government career with the Department of Defense in 2002 and was selected as the Assistant Medical Center Director at the Memphis VA Medical Center in October 2024. She is responsible for providing executive leadership in the areas of Chaplain Services, Center for Development and Civic Engagement (formally known as Volunteer services), Police Services, Environmental Management Services, Food and Nutrition, Prosthetics, Emergency Management, and the Veteran Experience Office. Ms. Gust’s previous positions within the VA and Department of Defense include Assistant Uniform Business Office Manager at the Tripler Army Medical Center (Honolulu, HI); Assistant Uniform Business Office Manager at the Europe Regional Medical Command (Sembach, Germany); Uniform Business Office Manager at the Europe Regional Medical Command; Health System Specialist to the Chief of Staff at the Northern Indiana Health Care System (Fort Wayne, IN) and as the Executive Assistant to the Medical Center Director at the Memphis VA Medical Center. Gust graduated from Central Michigan University with a Master of Healthcare Administration.
Early Care Can Prevent a Bigger Problem. Early Care Can Prevent a Bigger Problem.
Don’t ignore symptoms like chest pain, muscle aches, and weakness or heaviness in your limbs – they can be a sign of vascular disease, and prompt care is essential to improve your health and prevent an emergency. At Regional One Health, our vascular surgeons offer lifelong care and minimally invasive procedures that get you back in action quickly, often with no hospital stay.
HParker Harris Chief
Executive Officer
and Administrator
Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton
Administrator Baptist Memorial Health Care Oncology Service Line
1995 Highway 51 South Covington, TN 38019
901-475-5500
Parker.Harris@ bmhcc.org
Harris has been the CEO and administrator of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton since 2019 and began serving as administrator for Baptist’s oncology service line in 2025. Harris is a graduate of the University of Memphis with a Bachelor of Science in accounting (2013) and a master’s degree in health administration (2016). He completed the Dr. Frank Groner Administrative Fellowship Program at Baptist, is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is past president of Mid-South Health Care Executives.
Michael Hocker, MD
Executive Dean of the College of Medicine
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center 910 Madison Ave., Suite 1031 Memphis, TN 38163 901.448.5529
mhocker1@uthsc.edu
Dr. Hocker joined UT Health Science Center as executive dean of the College of Medicine in July 2025. He was previously the dean and chief academic officer for the University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) School of Medicine and senior vice president for the UT Health RGV clinical practice. Prior to that, he served as the senior associate dean and designated institutional official for Graduate Medical Education at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, overseeing 51 residency programs. Hocker
received his medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine and a Master of Health Science in Clinical Leadership from Duke University School of Medicine. He spent 14 years at Duke, helping to found and lead its top-tier emergency training program. Hocker’s career in health care and passion for emergency medicine began when he obtained his emergency medical technician license in high school. He also served in the U.S. Navy as a flight surgeon.
Kathy Hunt
Executive Director
Hunt & Associates
8719 Citrus Bend Dr. Cordova, TN 38018
901-828-4539
kathyhunt1231@ gmail.com
Hunt & Associates provides services to hospitals, healthcare systems, MSO’s, physicians, and ambulatory care organizations. She provides extensive experience leading and/ or supporting executive strategies, operations, partnerships and competitive focused growth, assists leaders to bridge gaps, advance core plans and business goals. Hunt also works with other non-profit, faith-based and media organizations in strategy, program development, and philanthropy. Prior to, Hunt served as Regional Director, Business Development/Physician Services, West Cancer Center; Administrative Director, Baptist Minor Medical Centers, Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation; Administrative Director, Integrated Delivery Systems/Business Development, Columbia Lakeside Hospital; and Administrative Director, Physician Services, East Jefferson General Hospital. Contributor to publications, advisory boards and councils.
JChris Jenkins Chief Operating Officer
Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis 5959 Park Ave. Memphis, TN 38119 901-765-1000
saintfrancishosp.com
As Chief Operating Officer, Jenkins oversees day-to-day operations at Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis. Prior to assuming the COO role at Saint Francis Memphis, he served as COO of Saint Francis Bartlett from 2018 to Nov. 2024. Before joining the team at Saint Francis Bartlett, Jenkins held the role of Executive Director of University of Tennessee Methodist Physicians at Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare. He served in several different leadership roles during his time at Methodist, including Administrator of Clinical Operations at Methodist University Hospital and Director of the Cancer Center, Brain and Spine Institute and Orthopedic Center, among other positions. Jenkins earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the University of Montana and a Master of Healthcare Administration from the University of Memphis.
Jenkins has served as the CEO of OrthoSouth since 2017, leading the comprehensive orthopedic group with a focus on optimizing the patient experience through the delivery of exceptional customer service. OrthoSouth currently serves as the Official Sports Medicine Partner for the Memphis Grizzlies and recently announced the launch of its Spine Institute, the only program in the Mid-South where a multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, physiatrists, and specially trained physical therapists works together to provide collaborative, patient-focused care for back
and neck conditions. Prior to his role at OrthoSouth, Jenkins served as CEO of MRI Interventions, Inc., a publicly traded medical device company.
Florence Jones, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE
Senior Vice President and President Methodist North Hospital 3960 New Covington Pike Memphis, TN 38128 901-516-5200 methodisthealth. org/north
Under the leadership of Jones, Methodist North Hospital received Magnet Designation and is one of only a dozen Magnet-designated hospitals in Tennessee. Jones joined Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare in 2008 as chief nursing officer for Methodist South Hospital, later serving a dual role for Methodist North. In 2017, she was selected to become president at Methodist North. Jones earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Murray State University,
a Master of Nursing Administration from the University of Evansville and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Union University.
KMatthew Kangas, MD
Medical DirectorSouthaven, MS Mays & Schnapp Neurospine and Pain 55 Humphreys Center Drive, Suite 200
Memphis, TN 38120 901-747-0040 maysandschnapp. com
Originally from the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan, Dr. Matthew Kangas began his medical training at Michigan State University. He then continued his medical training at the University of Michigan with a residency in anesthesiology before completing an Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship with the University of Michigan in 2016. He
maintains professional memberships with the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Dr. Matthew Kangas serves as the Medical Director of Mays & Schnapp Neurospine and Pain’s Southaven, Mississippi, clinic.
Andrew Kerwin, MD Chief of Trauma and Trauma Medical Director
Regional One Health Elvis Presley Trauma Center 877 Jefferson Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103 901-545-7100
regionalonehealth. org
Dr. Kerwin serves as the Chief of Trauma and Trauma Medical Director at Regional One Health Elvis Presley Trauma Center. He leads a multidisciplinary team that provides lifesaving care for patients at one of the nation’s busiest Level 1 Trauma Centers. As a Level 1 Trauma Center, the Elvis Presley Trauma Center is the designated trauma center for the most critically injured patients within a 150-mile radius. The facility provides 24/7 care for patients from Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Missouri. Dr. Kerwin is board-certified in General Surgery and Surgical Critical Care. He earned his medical degree at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield and completed his internship at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood. He then completed his residency at Medical University of Toledo. Following his residency, he completed a fellowship in trauma and critical care at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and the Regional One Health Elvis Presley Trauma Center. As an academic surgeon, Dr. Kerwin is currently Division Chief of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care in the Department of Surgery at UTHSC as well as a Professor in the Department of Surgery.
Raaj Kurapati, AIFA
Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
62 S. Dunlap St. Memphis, TN 38163
901-448-9685
rkurapat@uthsc.edu
Kurapati is responsible for coordinating the day-to-day administrative operations and management of the UT Health Science Center’s central administration. Additionally, he oversees revenue and expenditures through the university’s Office of Finance. Previously, he served as the executive vice president and chief operating and financial officer for the University of Memphis. Kurapati has held several executive roles in public higher education, including as the vice president and chief financial officer for Texas A&M University in Kingsville, associate vice chancellor and executive officer at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and chief financial and administrative officer for Northern Marianas College. Prior to transitioning to public higher education, he held leadership roles in business and private industry..
LJohn A. Lewis Administrator and Chief Executive Officer
Semmes Murphey Clinic, PC 6325 Humphreys Boulevard Memphis, TN 38120
901-522-7700
smc-info@ semmes-murphey. com
Lewis is Administrator and CEO at Semmes Murphey Clinic, PC, where he engages in all phases of leading the operation and setting strategic direction. Bringing decades of leadership experience across multiple industries, including manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare, he has dedicated the last 23 years to Semmes Murphey Clinic, PC. He completed his Master of Business Administration at Christian
Roth or Regular?
Taking Advantage of a Roth Contribution Option Can Give You Some Flexibility in Retirement
According to Vanguard’s “How America Saves 2024,” 82% of employers offer a Roth 401(k) option in addition to a traditional, or regular, 401(k) option. However, just 17% of employees contribute to a Roth. If you have access to a Roth 401(k) option through your employer, it can add some diversity and flexibility to your retirement income and tax strategy. Roth or regular? Here’s what to consider:
Contributions
Contributions to a Roth 401(k) are made with after-tax dollars, unlike a traditional 401(k) where contributions are made with pre-tax dollars.
This means you pay taxes on the money before it goes into your Roth 401(k), but you don’t pay taxes on the money (including any earnings) when you withdraw it in retirement. With a traditional 401(k), you pay taxes on the money (including any earnings) when you withdraw it in retirement.
Both accounts share the same contribution limit. In 2025, you can contribute up to $23,500 ($31,000 if you’re 50 or older, $34,750 for those age 60-63-if your plan permits). You can contribute to both accounts in the same year, as long as you keep your total contributions under that cap. Please note that starting in 2026, if you make $145,000+ in wages, any catch-up contribution you wish to make must be designated as a Roth catch-up contribution. This mandate is part of the SECURE Act 2.0 provisions.
Withdrawals
Withdrawals of any contributions and earnings from a Roth 401(k) are tax-free,
which can be beneficial if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement. However, certain criteria must be met:
• The Roth 401(k) account must have been held for at least five years.
• The withdrawal must have occurred when you reach at least age 59½
• Tax-free withdrawals can also be taken due to disability, or by a beneficiary upon your death.
With a traditional 401(k), Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) must begin at age 73. However, starting in 2024, a Roth 401(k) does not require RMDs during the account holder’s lifetime. Each year you have the freedom to withdraw whatever amount you want from your Roth 401(k) and let the rest continue to potentially grow on a tax-deferred basis.
Employer Matching
If offered, an employer match is typically available to you whether you save through a Roth 401(k) or traditional 401(k). For details on how your plan handles employer-matching contributions, check with your plan administrator.
Diversifying Your Contributions
No one knows what the tax brackets will be in the future, so you could decide to diversify your contributions evenly between the traditional and Roth option. Depending on your circumstances, you can always decide to contribute more toward one or the other in the future. In any event, a Roth option gives you the flexibility to further customize your plan based on your unique needs.
Chirag Chauhan, MBA, AIF®, CFP® is the managing partner of Bluff City Advisory Group in Memphis, Tennessee. For more info, please visit bluffcityadvisory.com.
Chirag Chauhan, AIF®, CFP®
Brothers University and is a Certified Public Accountant, a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives and is certified in IT Project Management.
Wendy M. Likes, PhD, DNSc, APRN-Bc, FAANP, FAAN
Dean of the College of Nursing
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center 874 Union Avenue Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6144 wlikes@uthsc.edu
Dr. Likes has served as dean of the UT Health Science Center College of Nursing since 2015. Under her leadership, the college has been ranked in the top 20 BSN programs and top 15 DNP programs among public universities nationwide. She is responsible for managing more than one hundred faculty and staff members and educating and serving more than 400 students annually. In 2025, she was appointed executive director and special advisor on rural health for the university. As the principal investigator on a $12 million grant from the Tennessee Department of Health designating UT Health Science Center as the Tennessee Rural Health Care Center of Excellence, Dr. Likes is leading a four-year initiative to help close the gaps driving differences in health outcomes for rural Tennesseans. Dr. Likes is a three-time graduate of UT Health Science Center and a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
Jason Little President/Chief Executive Officer
Baptist Memorial Health Care
350 North Humphreys Blvd. Memphis, TN 38120 901-227-5134
Jason.Little@ BMHCC.org
Little is Baptist Memorial Health Care’s president and CEO. He is the fifth president in Baptist’s more
than 100-year history, and under his leadership Baptist has grown from a 14-hospital system to a 24-hospital, $4.9-billion integrated health care system in three states with more than 23,000 employees and 7,000+ affiliated physicians. Little came to Baptist in 2002 after serving as an operations administrator at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona. Prior to his role as president and CEO, Little served as system COO and CEO of three different Baptist Memorial hospitals. Little received his bachelor’s degree in health administration from the University of Tennessee, where he received the prestigious Whittle Scholarship and was elected student body president. He earned master’s degrees in business administration and health care administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He serves on the boards of the Greater Memphis Chamber, Memphis Tomorrow, the New Memphis Institute, the Tennessee Hospital Association, the Mississippi Hospital Association, the Healthcare Institute and the American Hospital Association’s Health Systems.
Patrick “Pat” N. Lloyd
Senior Regional Director Tenet Physician Resources
Saint Francis Memphis 5959 Park Ave Memphis, TN 38119 901-765-1000
Saintfrancishosp. com
In his role as Senior Regional Director of Tenet Physician Resources, Lloyd promotes and facilitates physician alignment with Tenet in-market hospitals (Saint Francis hospitals), has operations oversight of TPRaffiliated medical practices and the development of strategies to support growth. His responsibilities include identifying physician growth opportunities and securing employment of qualified candidates. He is also responsible for market financial performance of medical practices that include operational and capital budget management. He also helps facilitate quality and the patient care experience and works in concert with
Saint Francis Healthcare’s Leadership team in the development of annual market business plans. Lloyd also provides support for other TPR markets on an as needed basis.
MJohn Mallia
Interim Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare 1211 Union Ave. Suite 700
Memphis, TN 38104
901-478-0525
MethodistHealth.org
Mallia joined Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare in 2025 as interim Chief Financial Officer. He is an expert in capital planning, cost containment and investment strategy, enhancing performance and supporting improvements in patient care. Mallia has previously led financial operations through the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath for one of the largest and hardest-hit hospitals in New York City as well as leading the Epic implementation and system integration of a health system in upstate New York. John earned his MBA in Organizational Development from Franklin University and his BSBA in Accounting and Finance from The Ohio State University.
Meadows joined Memphis Jewish Home & Rehab in 2013 after 13 years in the nursing home industry, eleven of those as an executive director. He attended Marshall University and then the University of Alabama where he earned a business degree in healthcare management. He began his work in nursing homes as a CNA and worked his way up to being a licensed nursing home administrator. Meadows currently
serves as the President of the Tennessee Healthcare Association (THCA) and is on the Executive Board for the Association of Jewish Aging Services (AJAS). He was named 2016 National Young Executive Leader by AJAS, was highlighted as a Healthcare Leader in the October 2014 issue of Memphis Medical News and was named Tara Cares 2011 Administrator of the Year.
Edie Miller
Chief Operating Officer Pediatrics East 7465 Poplar Avenue, Suite 201 Germantown, TN 38138 901-260-4937 emiller@pedseast. com pedseast.com
Miller joined Pediatrics East in June of 2021. As Chief Operating Officer, she is responsible for day-to-day clinic operations. Prior to joining Pediatrics East, Miller managed pediatric emergency medicine and sub-specialty practices at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Miller graduated from The University of Tennessee at Knoxville with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She then received a Master of Science in Health Administration and a Master of Business Administration from The University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Marigay Miller
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Physician Enterprise Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare 1211 Union Ave., Suite 700 Memphis, TN 38104 901-478-0888 MethodistHealth.org
Miller is vice president and chief operating officer of Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare’s Physician Enterprise. Marigay has served the organization and its physician partners including physician services, property management, real estate
Leading With Care and Commitment
Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital is honored to recognize the continued commitment of President Trey Eubanks, MD. For more than 20 years, Dr. Eubanks has been instrumental in helping Le Bonheur earn national recognition, including 15 consecutive years as a U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospital.” His leadership keeps quality at the heart of everything we do.
and physician recruiting. When Methodist began partnering with physician practices through employment in 2010, Miller’s duties grew to including practice onboarding and leadership. Today, she has corporate ownership of the specialty and primary care operations at Methodist, as well as physician recruitment and retention.
David Morris, LSW, MBA
Chief Executive Officer
Lakeside Behavioral Health System
2911 Brunswick Road Memphis, TN 38133
901-377-4700
lakesidebhs.com
Morris joined Lakeside Behavioral as Chief Executive Officer in midDecember 2024. He is a seasoned executive with more than 30 years’ experience in the behavioral health sector including holding CEO roles at facilities and operations across eight states. Most recently, Morris served as CEO for six years at Mind Care Solutions, a national provider of telepsychiatry serving healthcare and hospital environments. Morris holds a BA in Psychology from Louisiana Tech University, an MSW from the University of Arkansas and an MBA from Colorado State University.
G. Scott Morris, MD, MDiv Founder Church Health
1350 Concourse Ave. Memphis, TN 38104
901-272-7170 morriss@ churchhealth.org
Dr. Morris has an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia, a Master of Divinity degree from Yale University, and MD from Emory University. He is a boardcertified family practice physician and an ordained United Methodist minister. Since its founding by Morris in 1987, Church Health has provided quality, affordable health care for working, uninsured people and their families. It has grown to become the largest faith-based clinic of its type in the country.
Susan G. Murrmann, MD FACOG Chief Medical Officer/ Medical Director
McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health
McDonald Murrmann Center for Skin and Laser
7205 Wolf River Blvd. Suite 150 Germantown, TN 38138
901-752-4000
mmcwh360.com
Dr. Murrmann is the Chief Medical Officer of McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health and the Medical Director of McDonald Murrmann Center for Aesthetics and Laser. In 1996, she co-founded the all-female McDonald Murrmann Women’s Clinic with Dr. Mary McDonald believing that no one else could better understand or help deal with women’s issues better than women. In 2018 Dr. Murrmann spearheaded a change in the direction of the clinic and rebranded the clinic to better fit the needs of the patients and their overall health. The clinic and the other providers are focusing on preventative, integrative, and restorative medicine along with many added services. McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health also includes McDonald Murrmann Center for Aesthetics and Laser to cover 360º of women’s health. Dr Murrmann, graduated from the University of Tennessee in OB/ GYN, specializes in minimally invasive surgery, bio-identical hormones, and has recently completed her fellowship in Anti-aging and Functional Medicine through the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.
NRyan Nelson Market Chief Financial Officer
Saint Francis
Hospital-Memphis
Saint Francis
Hospital-Bartlett
Saint Francis
Hospital-Memphis 5959 Park Avenue Memphis, TN 38119
901-765-1000
saintfrancishosp.com
Nelson was named Market Chief Financial Officer by Saint Francis Healthcare in July 2022. In this role, he is responsible for guiding financial operations for Saint FrancisMemphis and Saint Francis-Bartlett. Before joining Saint Francis, Nelson served as Chief Financial Officer at Woodland Heights Medical Center, a part of Community Health Systems, in Lufkin, Texas. Prior to that, he held a variety of roles at Baptist Memorial Health Care including Controller/ Director of Finance and Accounting, Senior Finance Manager, and Assistant Controller. Nelson earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from The University of Illinois and received a Master of Business Administration from Baylor University. Additionally, Nelson is a graduate of Leadership Memphis, the Baptist Executive Leadership Institute through Baptist Memorial Health Care and is a member of the Health Care Financial Management Association.
Ellis Neufeld
MD, PhD
Executive vice president, Clinical director and Physician in chief St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105 901-595-3300
stjude.org
Neufeld is an internationally respected leader in pediatric hematology, a field that studies and treats blood disorders and disease in children. With more than 30 years in the field, he has built expertise while caring for patients in clinics and leading research in labs that track the
Our
everyday level of
care
may seem rare. But for us, it is a daily operational reality.
Here’s how we can care for your spine patients.
SAME-DAY CARE
If your patient needs to be seen by a spine doctor today, then we will see them today.
MONTHLY CASE CONFERENCES
Specialists meet and review cases. This serves as both an educational forum and a decision-making hub.
PATIENT NAVIGATOR
Patients are assisted by our Patient Navigator, who tracks their movement through the system. The Navigator knows exactly which doctor a patient is to see next and what test needs to be scheduled.
5 STAR CUSTOMER CARE
85k+ 5-star Verified Google reviews. Even the Memphis Grizzlies chose OrthoSouth for their customer care reputation.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
long-term impact of blood diseases on children, including hemophilia, ITP, and rare inherited red blood cell disorders. Neufeld, who holds the John and Lorine Thrasher Chair in Pediatric Medicine at St. Jude joined the organization in 2017 after 26 years serving on the faculty of Harvard Medical School, and as associate chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology at the Dana Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center.
Michael A. Nichols, MS
Associate Medical Center Director/Chief Operating Officer
VA Memphis Health Care
1030 Jefferson Avenue Memphis, TN 38104-2127
901-577-7201
memphis.va.gov
Nichols was appointed Associate Medical Center Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center in Memphis, Tennessee, on November 10, 2019. He came to us from the Fayetteville VA Health Care Center in North Carolina, where he served as the Administrator, with operational oversight responsibilities for a 49,000-patient facility with over seven hundred staff. Prior to Fayetteville, Mr. Nichols served as a Health System Specialist to the Associate Chief of Staff for Ambulatory Care at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas, where he comanaged operations for nine (9) multi-specialty outpatient clinics. A native of Little Rock, he began his career with VHA in 2001 with the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. Mr. Nichols holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a master’s degree in counseling psychology from the University of Central Arkansas. He holds a certification in psychiatric vocational rehabilitation from Boston University. Mr. Nichols is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is a 2018 graduate of Leadership VA.
ORola A. Obaji Chief Executive Officer
McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health
7205 Wolf River Blvd. Suite 150 Germantown, TN 38138
901-752-4000 mmcwh360.com
With over 25 years of experience in medical services and administration, Obaji has helped medical providers grow their services and abilities to treat the patients that need them the most. As the CEO of McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health 360°, she is passionate about providing comprehensive medical and aesthetic care for women in Memphis. Obaji strives to ensure patients receive the best care possible and that doctors can practice medicine in an environment that yields the greatest results. She has incorporated more offerings that benefit women’s overall wellness and supported the growth of McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health as it has expanded to the Center for Laser & Aesthetics along with the Center for Body Contouring.
PDonna Pendergrass
MD CPPM CPCO CDEO 2026 President Mid-South MGMA Communications Director MetroCare Physicians 1661 International Drive #202 Memphis, TN 38120 www.metrocare physicians.com
A graduate of UTHSC College of Medicine, Dr. Pendergrass has served MetroCare Physicians and their practices for the past 10 years, responsible for building practice relationships, practice education development, and writing communications to assist in conducting the
business of medicine. Previously she served as a practice administrator at Pediatric Consultants. Pendergrass will serve a second term as the President of the Midsouth Medical Group Management Association for 2026.
Anton Dias Perera, MD, FACS
Co-Founder/ President/Chief Executive Officer
Vascular & Vein Institute of the South 1375 West Brierbrook Rd. Germantown, TN 38138
901-390-2930 vascularand veininstitute.com
Dr. Perera is Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vascular & Vein Institute of the South, which has fifteen locations across Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Dr. Perera is board certified in vascular surgery and general surgery by the American Board of Surgery and offers a full spectrum of treatment options utilizing both endovascular and open surgical techniques for the management of vascular disease. He’s been named to Castle Connolly’s list of Top Doctors since 2023 and was recently recognized among Newsweek’s 2025 list of America’s Leading Doctors in Vascular Surgery (No. 20 in the nation, and No. 1 in Tennessee).
Jenny Bartlett-Prescott Chief Operating Officer
Church Health 1350 Concourse Ave. Memphis, TN 38104
901-272-7170
prescottj@ churchhealth.org
Bartlett-Prescott is the COO at Church Health, where she has served in a variety of leadership positions since 1997. She leads all clinical service lines and health promotion programs. She has a master’s degree in epidemiology and is the leader driving quality improvement throughout the organization.
James Proctor Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Regional One Health 877 Jefferson Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103
901-545-7100
regionalonehealth. org
Proctor is senior vice president and chief financial officer at Regional One Health, leading all areas of finance for the health care system including revenue cycle, accounting, strategic financial planning, internal audit, facilities operations and materials management. Proctor has more than 25 years of professional experience in health care finance. He joined Regional One Health in 2009 and served in various finance positions before being named CFO in 2021. Prior to joining Regional One Health, Proctor spent 13 years with a managed care organization. He earned his Master of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Memphis. He is a Six Sigma green belt and has worked on numerous process improvement items. Proctor serves on the THA Center for Innovative Solutions (TCIS) board and is chairman of THA’s Audit Committee.
RStephanie A. Reese, LMSW
Chief Executive Officer
Delta Specialty Hospital
3000 Getwell Road
Memphis, TN 38118
901-687-1594
Stephanie.Reese@ deltaspecialty hospital.com
Reese was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Delta Specialty Hospital in February 2023. She has been part of the Acadia Healthcare family since 2017, serving in progressive roles including intern, patient advocate/involuntary coordinator, Director of Quality and Risk Management, and Chief Operating Officer at both Crestwyn Behavioral Health and Delta Specialty Hospital.
Originally from the East Coast, Stephanie earned her bachelor’s degree from Elizabethtown College in 2011 and later completed her master’s degree at Widener University in 2022. Between her undergraduate and graduate studies, she proudly supported her family as a military spouse.
Justin Rhodes Chief Executive Officer
Baptist Medical Group
Vice President, Baptist Connected Care
Baptist Memorial Health Care
350 N. Humphreys Blvd.
Memphis, TN 38120
901-227-4054
Rhodes serves as chief executive officer of Baptist Medical Group and vice president of Baptist Connected Care. In this role, Rhodes provides strategic direction and operational leadership for Baptist’s multispecialty medical group consisting of more than 1,500 providers in 200+ practice sites across the Mid-South. As VP of Baptist Connected Care, Rhodes is responsible for developing, implementing and supporting a connected health platform. Most recently, Rhodes served as CEO of Baptist Medical Group in Central Mississippi. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas, and an MBA from Mississippi College in Clinton, Mississippi.
Sylvia Richey, MD
Chief Medical Officer
West Cancer Center
7945 Wolf River Blvd.
Germantown, TN 38138
901-683-0055 westcancercenter. org
Dr. Richey joined West Cancer Center as a Hematology Oncology specialist in January 2005 and is currently the Chief Medical Officer. With a passion for her patients and commitment to provide the best cancer care available to every patient
she treats, it comes as no surprise that she is beloved by patients and staff. In 2017 She has successfully led and built West Cancer Centers Integrative Oncology program and leads our Clinical Practice Quality initiatives.
Jennie N. Robbins Chief Executive Officer
Church Health
1350 Concourse Ave. Memphis, TN 38104
901-701-2121
robbinsj@ churchhealth.org
Robbins serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Church Health. Prior to joining the organization in 2007, Robbins worked in the corporate banking world in Memphis. She is a Past-President of MidSouth Medical Group Management Association and is involved in many community projects and organizations including the Board of Advisors of Memphis Bio-works Foundation’s New Market Tax Credit Program, Tennessee Charitable Care Network Association, and the Junior League of Memphis.
SDaniel Shumate, MBA, MHA Chief Executive Officer
Campbell Clinic 1400 South Germantown Road
Germantown, TN 38138
901-759-3100 campbellclinic.com
Shumate leads Campbell Clinic, an orthopaedic surgery group founded in Memphis in 1909. Prior to being named CEO in 2021, Shumate was the clinic’s CFO and had held that role since 2010. The organization employs 90+ providers and over 1,200 employees at 10 locations across the Mid-South along with two outpatient surgery centers.
Randy Sites, MBA Chief Executive Officer
UT Regional One Physicians
877 Jefferson Ave. Memphis, TN 38103 901-545-7100 regionalonehealth. org
Sites began serving as Chief Executive Officer for UT Regional One Physicians (UTROP) in 2014. UTROP is a faculty practice group that is a partnership between Regional One Health and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Sites is a highly experienced healthcare leader from 28 years working with prominent health systems and medical practice groups. He earned a Bachelor of Science in commerce and business administration from the University of Alabama, followed by a Master of Business Administration.
Scott Smith Market Chief Executive Officer
Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett Chief Executive Officer
Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis 5959 Park Ave. Memphis, TN 38119 901-765-1000 saintfrancishosp.com
Smith assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer for Tenet Healthcare’s Memphis market and as CEO of Saint Francis HospitalMemphis in July 2023. Tenet’s Memphis market includes Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis and Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett. As Market CEO of Saint Francis, Smith is responsible for overseeing all strategic growth and development, hospital operations and finances, and executive planning. He previously served as the market CEO for Tennessee-based LifePoint Health in Arkansas at National Park Medical Center and Saline Memorial Hospital. During his time there, he implemented multiple new service lines, brought new technology, and increased employee retention. Smith
earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from Mississippi State University and his Master of Science in Business Administration and Management from Belhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi.
Jessica Snowden, MD, MS, FAAP, MHPTT
Vice Chancellor for Research/Interim Dean of the College of Graduate Health Sciences
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center 910 Madison, Suite 608 Memphis, TN 38163
901-448-7125 research@uthsc.edu
Dr. Snowden is a nationally recognized pediatric infectious disease specialist and researcher. She leads the Office of Research, supporting the research being done across all six colleges at UT Health Science Center, which recently received the prestigious R1 research designation among top-tier academic institutions. Snowden is known as a dedicated mentor and a leader in integrating clinical, research, and academic efforts to advance the understanding of health and disease. She has substantive leadership in multisite and multistate interdisciplinary research, including a groundbreaking opioid study and a major long-COVID study into the effects of the virus on children and families, particularly in underserved areas. She recently organized the first Tennessee Statewide Cancer Collaborative Scientific Meeting, bringing together researchers, clinicians, and institutional partners from across the state to chart a unified course in the fight against cancer.
Bradley Somer, MD Chairman-Board of Directors
West Cancer Center
7945 Wolf River Blvd.
Germantown, TN 38138
901-683-0055
westcancercenter. org
Dr. Somer is a nationally recognized expert in cancer care. His passion is his patients and their families. As Chair of the Board of Directors at West Cancer Center, Dr. Somer has led projects such as sub-specialization and a new hospital rounding initiatives, while also serving as a leader in major projects, growth, and expansion. A top award graduate from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr. Somer joined the West team in 2002 after completing his fellowship training at the University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center. Somer also completed his internship and residency at the Hospital University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Along with Board Chair, Dr. Somer, also a Board-Certified Medical Oncologist and senior partner. Dr. Somer is actively involved in clinical research, often participating as principal investigator in research trials at West. “Our clinical trial offerings exceed many top academic programs across the country where people travel long distances to seek medical care. It is a crown jewel for the Memphis cancer community for patients to have access to potential treatments long before they reach the general community.”
Ocpivia Stafford, PharmD, MBA, FACHE
Senior Vice President and President
Methodist South Hospital
1300 Wesley Dr. Memphis, TN 38116
901-516-3700
methodisthealth. org/south
Before becoming hospital president, Stafford served in many pharmacy leadership roles within the healthcare system including vice president of Support and Professional Services where she oversaw strategic
operations for Environmental Services, Food Services, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Radiology, Rehabilitation, Respiratory, Security and Comprehensive Wound Healing Services. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana, a master’s degree from The University of Memphis and a doctorate from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University in Tallahassee. Stafford is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a Tennessee Center for Performance Excellence Master Examiner.
Lindsay Stencel Chief Executive Officer and Administrator
Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville Administrator for Orthopedic Services
Baptist Memorial Health Care
Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville 1500 West Poplar Ave.
Collierville, TN 38017 901-861-9411
Lindsay.Stencel@ BMHCC.org
Stencel was promoted to chief executive officer of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville in 2020. She held the title of chief administrative officer for the hospital from 2016 to 2020. Stencel served as an assistant administrator from 2011 to 2016 at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis, where she supervised a number of departments, including rehabilitation, food and nutrition, safety and security, pharmacy, oncology services, transportation, teleservices, facility
services and construction. A trained occupational therapist, she began her career at Baptist in 2002 as the director of rehabilitation services. Stencel earned a Bachelor of Science degree in occupational therapy from the University of LouisianaMonroe and a Master of Business Administration from Union University.
Sherwin L. Stewart, DSL Chief Executive Officer
Saint Francis Hospital-Bartlett
2986 Kate Bond Rd. Bartlett, TN 38133 901-820-7000
Saintfrancisbartlett. com
Stewart joined Saint Francis Healthcare as CEO of Saint FrancisBartlett in January 2024. Stewart has 30 years of healthcare experience that includes advancing in healthcare leadership roles throughout the Southeastern United States. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Operations for Sentara Health’s CarePlex Hospital and Port Warwick
Delivering Care for Women
MOGA Wolfchase
MOGA DeSoto
MOGA Memphis (Formerly Opera Memphis)
divisions in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area. Stewart earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree and his Master of Sciences in Management degree from Belhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi. He received his Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Stewart serves on the Bartlett Chamber of Commerce Board. He is a mentor with The University of Memphis MILE (Memphis Institute for Leadership Education) program.
Mary Ellen Sumrall
Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive
Baptist Memorial Health Care
350 N. Humphreys Blvd.
Memphis, TN 38120 901-226-0505
Maryellen.Sumrall@ BMHCC.org
Sumrall is the chief nursing executive for Baptist Memorial Health Care. She served in a dual role as chief nursing officer for the health care system’s flagship hospital, Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis, from January 2022 until fall of 2023. Sumrall joined Baptist in 1993 as an emergency department charge nurse at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle in Columbus, Mississippi, where she would eventually become director of emergency services and chief nursing officer. Sumrall was instrumental in a number of successful initiatives and accomplishments at Baptist Golden Triangle, including establishment of the hospital’s first nurse residency program, numerous Hospital of the Year awards and consecutive Leapfrog Patient Safety “A” ratings for Baptist Golden Triangle since 2012. Sumrall earned her nursing degree from the University of Mississippi and a master’s degree in nursing administration from Union University. She is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Executives.
TShannon Tacker Chief Executive Officer
University Clinical Health
1068 Cresthaven Road, Suite 300 Memphis, TN 38119
901-866-8864 universityclinichealth.com
Tacker has been serving as CEO of University Clinical Health (UCH) since May 2020 and is responsible for formulating and executing UCH’s business strategy and operational plans. She also oversees the partnership between UCH and the University of Tennessee and provides oversight of UCH’s 23 locations. Prior to joining UCH, Tacker was Vice President and Executive Director of UT Le Bonheur Pediatric Specialists and served as Chief Financial Officer for Baptist Medical Group. Notably, Tacker had a 15-year tenure with UT Medical Group, where she rose from staff accountant to Vice President. Tacker is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Medical Group Management Association.
Kurt Tauer, MD, FACP Co-Founder West Cancer Center 7945 Wolf River Blvd. Germantown, TN 38138
901-683-0055 westcancercenter. org
Along with Drs. William H. West and Lee Schwartzberg, Dr. Kurt Tauer was one of the original founding partners of West Clinic – joining the small oncology practice in 1985 following the completion of his Fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. His commitment to serving the entire community has been the foundation of West Cancer Center’s growing Community Outreach Program – a program that seeks to encourage education, prevention, and early detection among the most underserved in the Memphis area. A renowned expert
in the study and treatment of lung, breast, prostate, colon and melanoma cancers, Dr. Tauer has served on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Panel for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.
Manoucheka Thermitus, MBA
Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Regional One Health 877 Jefferson Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103
901-545-7100
regionalonehealth. org
Thermitus is senior vice president and chief operating officer at Regional One Health, leading clinical and non-clinical operational areas including trauma, burn, wound care, HBO, pharmacy, surgical services, laboratory, imaging, respiratory, physical therapy, food and nutrition services, environmental services, security, emergency management, and patient experience. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and a Master of Business Administration from George Washington University. She has extensive experience in hospital administration, strategic planning, physician relations and patient experience. Thermitus is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and serves on the Tennessee Hospital Association Council on Inclusion and Health Equity, Mid-South American Heart Association Board of Directors and Leadership Memphis Board.
Kevin Todd, MBA
Chief Financial Officer
Le Bonheur
Children’s Hospital 848 Adams Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103
901-287-5437
LeBonheur.org
Todd joined Le Bonheur as vice president, chief financial officer in June 2013 but has been part of the Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare family since 1996. He previously served as CFO at Methodist North Hospital (2008-2013) and Methodist
South Hospital (2005-2008). He also worked as director of Finance at Le Bonheur from 2002-2005. Todd received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Union University in 1993 and has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Memphis. Todd currently serves as treasurer for the Le Bonheur Foundation and as treasurer for UT Le Bonheur Pediatric Specialists. He also serves on the board for Le Bonheur Community Health & Well-Being and is an advisor for Le Bonheur Pediatrics.
Tish Towns, FACHE
Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer
Regional One Health 877 Jefferson Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103 901-545-7100
regionalonehealth. org
Towns is executive vice president and chief administrative officer at Regional One Health. She has responsibility for ambulatory
services, including primary care practices and multi-specialty locations; academic oncology; post-acute care services including rehabilitation, and long-term acute care; marketing and communications; market development; community engagement; pastoral care; volunteers and guest services. Beginning her career in state government with the Tennessee Departments of Human Services and Health, Towns went on to serve in senior executive roles in community not-for-profit, rural and urban academic delivery settings in Illinois, Georgia and South Carolina before joining Regional One Health in 2009. Towns is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). She is a member of the Board of Directors for both THA and TSU, a member of the Regional Policy Board for AHA, and Past Chair of the THA Council on Inclusion and Health Equity. Towns was honored with the 2017 Meritorious Service Award for a Senior Executive and the 2018 Diversity Champion Award by the Tennessee Hospital Association. She was honored with the ACHE Tennessee Regent’s Senior Executive Award in 2024.
Arthur M. Townsend IV, MD, MBA, FACOG, LSSC, CPHQ
President and CEO HealthChoice, LLC 1661 International Place Dr., Suite 130 Memphis, TN 38120 901-821-6708
Arthur.Townsend@ myhealthchoice.com
Dr. Townsend is Chief Executive Officer of HealthChoice, LLC, a Physician Hospital Organization advancing value-based care in the Mid-South. After serving as interim CEO since 2020, he will assume the role full-time on January 1, 2026. A board-certified OB/GYN, Dr. Townsend co-founded the OB/GYN hospitalist program at Methodist Germantown Hospital in 2009 and served as program director until 2025. His strategic vision for HealthChoice focuses on physician alignment, innovative care models, and sustainable growth through clinical integration and population health initiatives.
UMichael Ugwueke, DHA, MPH, FACHE President and Chief Executive Officer Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare 1211 Union Ave., Suite 700 Memphis, TN 38104 901-478-0520
methodisthealth.org
Ugwueke is president and CEO of Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, a $2 billion six-hospital integrated system. He joined the healthcare system in 2007 as CEO of Methodist South Hospital, later serving a dual role for Methodist North Hospital before advancing to system chief operating officer. Ugwueke has received numerous awards including 2020 and 2021 Modern Healthcare Top 25 Minority Executive in the country, 2021 CEO of Distinction by the Tennessee Hospital Association, and 2021 Baldrige Foundation Harry S. Hertz Leadership Award. Ugwueke serves on several boards, including American Hospital Association and
the St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank Board of Trustees. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Shaw University, a master’s degree from Emory University and a doctorate from the Medical University of South Carolina. Ugwueke is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
VGregory Vidal, MD, PhD Oncologist West Cancer Center 7945 Wolf River Blvd. Germantown, TN 38138 901-683-0055 westcancercenter. com
Dr. Vidal is a medical oncologist at West Cancer Center & Research Institute, specializing in breast cancer and precision oncology. Born in Portsmouth, Commonwealth of Dominica, he was raised with a strong appreciation for service, shaped by his mother, Vinia - a shopkeeper, and his father, Huron - a police officer. Dr. Vidal earned his BS/MS from the University of Mississippi and completed his MD/ PhD at Tulane University, followed by internal medicine residency and oncology fellowship training at Stanford University. Throughout his career, he has been guided by influential mentors, including Drs. Steven D’Surney, Frank Jones, Mark Pegram, and Lee S. Schwartzberg. Nationally recognized for his advocacy and research leadership, Dr. Vidal is passionate about advancing equitable access to innovative cancer therapies and ensuring that breakthroughs in breast cancer care benefit all patients.
WElisabeth Wade, DNP Chief Nurse/ Nurse Executive
VA Memphis Health Care
1030 Jefferson Ave. Memphis, TN 38104-2127
901-577-7201 memphis.va.gov
Dr. Wade is the Associate Director for Patient Care Services/Nurse Executive, bringing nearly two decades of dedicated nursing expertise. She began her nursing career at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, specializing in critical care in the Cardiopulmonary Transplant Intensive Care Unit. In 2014, Dr. Wade joined the Department of Veterans Affairs at the Memphis VA Medical Center. Over the years, she has held several key leadership positions, including Chief Nurse for Acute Care, Critical Care, Education and Operations. Her leadership and commitment to excellence led to her selection as Deputy Associate Director for Patient Care Services in 2022. From August to December 2023, she served as the Acting Associate Director for Patient Care Services for the Tennessee Valley Health System in Nashville, TN. In April 2025, she was selected as the Associate Director for Patient Care Services at the Memphis VA Medical Center. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Alabama in Huntsville, a Master of Health Informatics from Walden University, a Master of Nursing from the University of South Alabama, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from FreedHardeman University.
Lisa Wallace
Chief Nursing Officer
Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis 5959 Park Avenue Memphis, TN 38119 901-765-1000
saintfrancishosp.com
Wallace has served as Chief Nursing Officer of Saint Francis Hospital-Memphis since
June 2025. Wallace came to Saint Francis from National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Wallace served as CNO there for five years. Prior to that she served as a corporate interim CNO for Lifepoint. Before Lifepoint, she was a nurse leader for HCA and served as CNO for two of their facilities in Texas and Georgia. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Central Florida and her Master of Nursing at the Research College of Nursing in Kansas City, Missouri. She also holds a Doctor of Nursing practice degree from the University of Central Florida. Wallace is credentialed as a Certified Professional in Patient Safety (CPPS) and is Nurse Executive-Board Certified (NE-BC). She is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Nurses Association, the National Patient Safety Organization/ IHI and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, in which she has been a long-term member and held several state board positions.
B. Rush Waller, MD
Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital 848 Adams Ave. Memphis, TN 38103 901-287-5437 LeBonheur.org
Dr. Waller is the Chief Medical Officer of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. He also serves as the medical director of Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) within the Heart Institute at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and is dual certified by the American Board of Pediatrics with a cardiology subspecialty and an ACHD specialty. He is a professor of Pediatrics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Monica Wharton, FACHE
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare
1211 Union Ave., Suite 700
Memphis, TN 38104
901-478-0538
MethodistHealth.org
Wharton is executive vice president and chief operating officer for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, leading key operational areas for the system, including human resources, information technology, corporate risk, compliance and legal services as well as overseeing operations at the organization’s community hospitals. She joined MLH in 2017 as chief legal officer, advanced to EVP and chief administrative officer in 2020 before becoming EVP/COO in 2023. Previously, she was chief legal officer and general counsel for Regional One Health. Wharton is active on many charitable and professional boards. Wharton earned her Juris Doctorate degree from the William and Mary School of Law and received a bachelor’s degree from Hampton University. She is board certified in healthcare management and a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Whobrey serves a dual role at Saint Francis HospitalBartlett as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer. She was named as COO in March 2025, after serving as CNO since 2020. As COO, Whobrey oversees dayto-day operations at the hospital. Her responsibilities as CNO include planning, organizing and directing the hospital’s nursing services. Prior to coming to Saint Francis, Whobrey served as Vice President of Patient Services and Chief Nursing Executive
at Community Health Network in Kokomo, Indiana. Whobrey is a graduate of Indiana University with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a Master of Healthcare Administration and Leadership. She holds an advanced certification as a nurse executive, is a certified medical surgical registered nurse, and a member of several professional organizations, including the American College of Healthcare Executives, the American Nurses Association, Tennessee Organization of Nursing Leadership, and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership.
Candace Wilder Chief Operating Officer
West Cancer Center
7945 Wolf River Blvd.
Germantown, TN 38138
901-683-0055
westcancercenter. org
Before being appointed Chief Operating Officer, Wilder was Vice President of Operations for West Cancer Center. Candace joined West Cancer Center as Director of West Clinic’s Comprehensive Breast Center in 2012 where she managed staffing and operations for the two breast center locations. Prior to joining West, she served in leadership roles at the Memphis Heart Clinic (MHC) and aided in the transition as MHC merged with the West Clinic in 2011. Wilder graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a Bachelor of Science in communications. She has been actively involved in the Memphis community, working with the Healthy Memphis Common Table, the American Heart Association and Conservation through Art, a partnership between Arts Memphis and Ducks Unlimited.
Williford joined Memphis Jewish Home & Rehab in 2015 and accepted the position of Assistant Executive Director in 2024. In this role, Williford assists with the daily operations of the Home and oversees the Outpatient Therapy and Adult Day Center programs. Previously, she served as Memphis Jewish Home & Rehab’s Director of Admissions for seven years and spent one year as the RN supervisor. Prior to moving to the Memphis area, she earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Southeast Missouri State University and spent 9 years working in various nursing roles at National Health Care Corporation. She is a Registered Nurse (RN) and a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA). She also volunteers as a mentor for Youth Villages and is participating in the 2026 THCA/TNCAL Future Leaders Program, a year-long cohort for emerging leaders in the field of long-term care.
Catherine Womack, M.D. 2026 President
Memphis Medical Society
Associate Dean Student Affairs and Admissions
University of Tennessee Health Science Center 1067 Cresthaven Road
Memphis, TN 38119
901-761-0200
mdmemphis.org
Dr. Womack is a board-certified internal medicine physician and proud life-long Memphian who has loved taking care of patients and teaching medical students and residents. She is deeply committed to the training of the next generation of physicians. She has enjoyed her various roles at UTHSC over the
years and is most proud to work with the outstanding students as they matriculate their residency programs. A graduate of the UTHSC College of Medicine, she is recognized for her excellence in patient care, education, and service, including receiving the American College of Physicians Laureate Award in 2017 and soon being inducted as a Master in the ACP in April 2026. She currently serves as the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions and as an Associate Professor at UTHSC. She is active in the Memphis Medical Society, Tennessee Medical Association, and American College of Physicians.
YKimberly Young Executive Vice President/ Chief Financial Officer
Baptist Memorial Health Care 350 N Humphreys Blvd. Memphis, TN 38120 901-227-4080
Kimberly.Young@ BMHCC.org
Young became executive vice president/chief financial officer for Baptist Memorial Health Care on November 1, 2023. She has served in a financial role for Baptist Memorial Health Care for more than 33 years, including as CFO of Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton, Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto, Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville, Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women and Baptist Medical Group, before being promoted to vice president of finance operations for Baptist in December 2019. Young has served on boards of the LG&W Federal Credit Union and the American Red Cross. She is an avid runner and CrossFit participant, and she routinely participates in marathons and CrossFit competitions, helping raise money for nonprofit organizations. Young earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Memphis.
InCharge
ALSAC 11
Baptist Memorial Health Care 5, 11, 14, 15, 19, 24, 28, 33, 35, 37, 41
Bluff City Advisory Group 15, 27
Campbell Clinic 7, 17, 33
Greg Campbell Photojournalist 20
Church Health 2, 8, 30, 32, 33
Clearly MD 13, 22
Coble Caperton 26
Conrad Pearson Clinic 22
Delta Specialty Hospital 13, 33
Health Choice 38
Hunt & Associates 24 L
Lakeside Behavioral Health System 30
Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital 4, 19, 21, 37, 29, 39 M
Mays & Schnapp Pain Neurospine Center 26
McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health 19, 30, 32
Memphis Jewish Home and Rehab 21, 28, 40, 41
Memphis Medical Society 11, 15, 18, 40
Memphis Obstetrics & Gynecological Association 36
Memphis Radiological, PC 14
Methodist Le Bonheur
Healthcare 13, 17, 18, 26, 28, 29, 34, 38, 40
HEALTHCARE 2026 COMPANY INDEX
MetroCare Physicians 32
MidSouth Healthcare Executives 11
Midsouth Imaging & East
Memphis Imaging 12, 16
Midsouth MGMA 32
Midsouth Pulmonary Specialists, PC 11, 22, 35 O
OrthoSouth 24, 31 P
Pediatrics East 12, 29 R
Regional One Health 17, 23, 26, 33, 37, 38 S
Saint Francis Bartlett 35, 40
Saint Francis Memphis 24, 28, 30, 34, 39
Gregory Vidal,
Semmes Murphey, PC 11, 27, 43
Stern Cardiovascular 19
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 18, 30 U
University Clinical Health 14, 37
University of Tennessee Health Science Center 4, 10, 13, 24, 27, 28, 34
UT Regional One Physicians 34
Vascular & Vein Institute of the South 32
VA Memphis Health Care 12, 21, 22, 32, 39
West Cancer Center 9, 10, 14, 18, 22, 25, 33, 34, 39, 40
continued from page 10
the exclusion of otherwise healthy patients and improved our understanding of how new treatments perform across diverse populations.
Ultimately, my most important accomplishment has been working to ensure that innovation in cancer care is paired with inclusion and fairness. Representation matters— not only to expand access to innovative therapies, but also to ensure that the evidence guiding cancer treatment truly reflects the diversity of the patients we serve. What is your favorite thing to do in your free time? Any hobbies?
Going to the gym, biking, traveling, spending time with family and friends.
Is there anything we didn’t ask that you’d like to pass on to your peers in the Memphis medical community or is there any advice you could offer to aspiring physicians and medical students who may read this?
Medicine is not only a science, but a responsibility. Your training will teach you how to diagnose and treat disease, but your impact will be defined by how you choose to serve people—especially those whose voices are not always heard. As you move forward, remain curious, compassionate, and courageous. Seek excellence in science, but never lose sight of equity, access, and humanity in care. You will practice medicine in an era of extraordinary innovation, where precision therapies and new technologies are rapidly changing what is possible. Yet progress only matters if it reaches everyone. Be willing to sit at tables where difficult decisions are made, ask hard questions, and advocate for patients who may not be represented in those rooms. Your presence, your perspective, and your integrity matter more than you may realize—and they have the power to shape a more just and effective future for medicine.
Father-daughter dance made possible by Whole Spine Care™
Spine problems can be big or small, complicated or simple. They often stop you from doing the things that make your life happy and complete—like dancing with your daughter at her wedding.
At Semmes Murphey, Whole Spine Care is our patientcentered approach for pain-free living. It starts with an environment where you are heard, supported, and empowered—and then continues with a wide range of treatments, from conservative care to the most advanced surgical techniques. Each step along your journey will be thoughtful, personalized, and rooted in more than a century of experience.
From initial consultation to recovery and aftercare, Whole Spine Care informs the way we design your entire experience. And it guides our methodical approach to the treatment options that are exactly right for you.
We have been focused on spine care since our founding in 1912, constantly developing treatments that are faster and better, and deliver complete, lasting outcomes.
