The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals has named Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, president and CEO of Navicent Health, as its 2014 CEO of the Year.
The Alliance recognizes a CEO annually that it believes has helped push their institution to be successful, while also continuing efforts to provide world class care and community benefit, according to a news release.
"Hospital leaders are facing more challenges than ever before and we see some of the greatest innovation and leadership each year when we select our CEO to honor," Alliance President Monty Veazey stated in the news release. "Dr. Saunders has taken a strong hospital and made its future even more compelling. She exemplifies dedication and excellence and that is why the Alliance is proud to recognize her as our 2014 CEO of the Year."
Saunders, CEO of Navicent Health, previously named Central Georgia Health System, is alsoco-founder of Stratus Healthcare, a collaborative partnership of 29 hospitals in central and south Georgia, including 18 rural hospitals.
The Alliance said she demonstrates unwavering passion while serving the unique needs of rural communities.
Saunders was also named one of Georgia's "Most Powerful and Influential Women" in 2013.
The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals works with not-for-profit hospitals and Georgia's health care consumers. It was founded in 1983 and says it's dedicated to helping hospitals fulfill their primary mission of serving their communities.
