Our latest Excellence in Leadership Cohort recently graduated, bringing together a dynamic group of leaders from across Ballad Health. This cohort included a diverse mix of professions – many stepping into leadership for the first time, alongside others who were newer leaders within our organization.
That blend created a great environment for learning and connection. Participants not only built leadership skills, but also formed meaningful relationships and expanded their professional networks across departments.
Throughout the program, the cohort explored key leadership topics, including the “6 Critical Practices for Leading a Team,” building and sustaining trust, navigating difficult conversations, and leading in alignment with Ballad Health’s values. These discussions, paired with real-world application, helped participants grow their confidence and effectiveness as leaders.
One of the biggest takeaways? The connections. New friendships and ongoing support networks formed that will continue to strengthen collaboration across our system.
“I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to participate in the Excellence in Leadership program,” said Jordan DeJong, a program graduate. “Sarah, and all of the guest speakers, were wonderfully informative, open and encouraging. I took away a great deal of not only day-to-day essential practices, but also big-picture mindset shifts that I think will be of great benefit to my team and department. I would highly recommend this course for anyone with the privilege of leading a team!”
Congratulations to this incredible group of leaders – we’re excited to see the impact they’ll continue to make!
May 2026 ELP cohort members
- Kellie Carter – Emergency department, Lonesome Pine Hospital
- Johnny Casey – Service line development, diagnostic imaging
- Paige Coleman – Patient experience, Johnson City Medical Center
- Shelly Dean – Marketing and communications
- Jordan De Jong – Clinical research, trauma, Johnson City Medical Center
- Jordan Evans – Reimbursement
- Karen Fisher – Quality
- Sherri Foster – Central fill
- Megan Hale – Med Surg, Norton Community Hospital
- Koby Kilbourne – Outpatient behavioral health
- Kelci King – Radiation oncology, Greeneville Community Hospital
- Keith Lanham – Digital care
- Kaitlyn McNulty-Jewell – Surgery, Johnston Memorial Hospital
- Katherine Simpson – Marketing and communications
- Misty Smith – Outpatient behavioral health
- Cara Tinch – Behavioral health
- Kim Villarreal – Central supply, Hawkins County Hospital
- Katy Wright – Corporate pharmacy
