Austin, Calder honored as Becker's 'Black healthcare leaders to know'

Two BJC executives have been named to the Becker's Hospital Review 2023 list of "149 Black healthcare leaders to know."

Tommye Austin, PhD, MSN, BJC senior vice president and chief nurse executive, and Gina Calder, president of Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital and Progress West Hospital, both earned the honor.

Austin was recognized for her efforts to strengthen staffing and preparation for emergencies by recruiting nurses, as well as her leadership during COVID-19 (prior to her role at BJC). According to Becker's, Austin's leadership "was exemplary as she created a plan to shift nurses to the patient care areas where they were most needed."

Calder was recognized for leading the revitalization of clinical service lines and building a diverse team of leaders. "Under Ms. Calder’s guidance, both hospitals have grown net patient revenue 25% from 2020 performance and have been recognized multiple times for patient quality, safety and experience," Becker's noted, adding that Calder also was named a "Champion for Diversity and Inclusion" by the St. Louis Business Journal and received the 2022 PRC Healthcare Leadership Impact award.

Both leaders are repeat honorees, having also been named to the Becker's list of "75 Black healthcare leaders to know" in 2022.

Becker's emphasized that diversity in health care, especially at the executive level, provides organizations with insight into the lived experiences of patients and employees — leading to more informed, personalized care and improved care outcomes.

According to Becker's, "The individuals highlighted on this list are fostering positive patient experiences, paving the way for the next generation of leaders and promoting health equity."

Read the Becker's article.