CoxHealth expands focus on Diversity, Inclusion and Equity

Out of a commitment to the importance of equality and visibility for all, CoxHealth has added its first Diversity, Inclusion and Equity officer. Heather Hardinger, Springfield city councilperson and workforce development advocate, has been hired for the role.

Through her work, Hardinger will help further the health system’s efforts to address health disparities, reach underserved populations, and identify gaps in equality and awareness for patients and employees.

“I’m thrilled to join CoxHealth as its first leader dedicated to building on the important work of diversity, equity, and inclusion under the organization’s mission and values – to be the best for those who need us with safety, compassion, respect and integrity,” says Hardinger, who assumed her role as Chief Diversity Officer on Dec. 6. “The best way to serve our patients, employees, and communities is to ensure we can provide and maintain safe, welcoming environments for all as we serve, heal, educate, and innovate. I look forward to bringing the best of who I am to this new role to advance diversity, inclusion, and health equity as essential components to providing exceptional care to the communities we serve.”

In addition to expertise in diversity and inclusion, Hardinger comes to CoxHealth with a background in workforce development. Her experience includes five years with the Taney County Partnership, where she focused on workforce-centric and economic development projects. She also has professional experience in the non-profit sector, and years spent working with local companies to optimize talent placement, development and the role of equity. Hardinger has a bachelor’s in International/Multicultural Studies from Evangel University, and a master’s in Political Science from American Public University System.

Additionally, Hardinger has invested much time in community initiatives. As a Springfield City Councilperson, a role to which she was elected in April 2021, she also focuses on breaking down barriers to services and opportunities for all throughout the city and beyond. Her civic service work also includes four years as chairperson of the Mayor’s Commission on Human Rights and Community Relations in Springfield; as current vice chair of Bread for the World in Washington D.C.; and as a member of the 2020 U.S. Census Complete Count committee, a role to which she was appointed by Gov. Mike Parson.

“It is of critical importance that we are able to attract and retain the most talented staff possible,” says Steve Edwards, president and CEO of CoxHealth. “For us to be at our very best, we must create an environment that fosters diversity, equity and inclusion. We want to invite all people with the talent and dedication to serve our patients to find a place to prosper on our team.

“I believe Heather is a brilliant person, and I feel so grateful that she has decided to join us at CoxHealth. She will advance our culture, and also very importantly help us identify and address health disparities. In hindsight, it was a very fine day for our community when she decided to travel from thousands of miles away from her home in Alaska to attend Evangel University. It has been a further blessing that she is dedicating her career in our community and bringing her full heart, mind and talents to CoxHealth.”