Children’s of Alabama is here today because, more than a century ago, a group of dedicated women saw the growing need for quality health care for children. In those early days at Children’s, an all-female group of volunteers did whatever was needed to operate the charity hospital, from scrubbing floors to sitting with sick children. The hospital’s first trustees were all women.
Today, women are involved throughout our hospital – from the board room to bedside. The women featured here all have very different roles at Children’s, but all are key to fulfilling the promise of the hospital’s original founders.
The Women of the Children’s of alabama Executive team
At Children’s of Alabama, 86 percent of our workforce is female. And you’ll see that reflected in hospital leadership as well.
This group of women has nearly 200 combined years of service at Children’s. Their leadership stretches from patient care, nursing and operations to finance, risk management and development.
Pictured left to right: Chandler Bibb, Chief Development Officer; Heather Hargis, Vice President, Operations; Dawn Walton, Chief Financial Officer; Sandy Thurmond, Vice President, Primary Care Services; Vickie Atkins, Vice President, Risk Management; Jamie Dabal, Vice President, Operations; Heather Baty, Vice President, Ambulatory Operations; Delicia Mason, Vice President, Nursing Operations and Chief Nursing Officer.
Laura Thompson, Recruitment Manager, 18 Years of Service
What led you to a career in healthcare?
I had the opportunity to join Children’s of Alabama as a Summer Intern, and I was immediately hooked. Healthcare had not been on my radar before then. Seeing this large organization work together to achieve our mission left an indelible mark on me early on and continues to be a driving factor for why I chose Children’s every day. There is no other organization I would rather recruit for.
Who are some women who have impacted your life?
Women from various walks of life have influenced and impacted my journey in numerous ways. My peers have had the most significant impact on my life. Their resilience, wisdom, and determination have collectively shaped my perspective and contributed to my growth. I am continually inspired to strive for excellence and embrace the diversity of every experience.
What message do you have for women trying to make their mark on the world?
To women striving to make their mark on the world, I say: Embrace your uniqueness, trust in your abilities and never underestimate the power of your voice. That doesn’t mean you have to be the loudest voice in the room. It means to make your voice clear, impactful and knowledgeable.
Alemma Raphaela James, Registered Nurse PICU, 6 months of service
What led you to a career in healthcare?
At age 11, my younger brother, who was 6 at the time, went into diabetic ketoacidosis and was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes here at Children’s of Alabama. My mother had sickle cell and suffered from sickle cell crises all throughout my childhood, so I grew up in healthcare. It’s become my passion to serve and care for others.
Who are some women who have impacted your life?
My mom, Bridget Jenkins has impacted my life. She was a single parent to three kids in poverty, and through every adversity, she would still say God is good. She was a kind-hearted, selfless woman and taught her kids how to persevere.
What message do you have for women trying to make their mark on the world?
Keep the faith, and don’t lose hope. There is power in being a woman.
Erica Reynolds, Director of Social Services, 21.5 years of service
What led you to a career in healthcare?
Healthcare found me. I was a young social worker at DHR trying to save the world and looking for my passion. I had a child on my caseload at Children’s that was in the PICU due to a non-accidental trauma. I had never been to Children’s as a child or DHR worker, so I didn’t know what to expect. From the moment I walked in the door and stepped into this magical place, my heart and mind were forever changed. This was where I was supposed to be. The care, concern, attention, passion and teamwork that was shown was something that I had not experienced at a job before, and I wanted to be part of that. The rest is history.
Who are some women who have impacted your life?
My “Granny” was the #1 woman that impacted my life. She was my real life role model that not only taught and instilled in me honorable values and qualities, but she demonstrated them daily.
What message do you have for women trying to make their mark on the world?
To make a mark on the world, you must first know who you are. Be curious about yourself and how others see you. Be open to new ideas, and know that your view or perception of the world is not the same for everyone. Be intentional about choosing happiness every day. Be willing to step outside of your comfort zone, believe in yourself, and do something bigger than you could imagine. You might just surprise yourself!
Daniela Martinez-Rodriguez, Nurse at Pediatrics east Deerfoot, 2 years of Service
What led you to a career in healthcare?
I always liked helping people. Growing up, I noticed many people in my community struggled with healthcare due to the language barriers. I speak, read and write fluently in Spanish, and I felt I could really help my community overcome this barrier. People feel better when they know their needs are understood. I am grateful God put me in a position to help others.
Who are some women who have impacted your life?
My mom has had the biggest impact on my life. She is hardworking, kind, and an amazing mom. She managed to have a full-time job while always being present for her children. She taught me to always be kind and help wherever and whoever I can.
What message do you have for women trying to make their mark on the world?
Follow your dreams! It may be difficult, but it’s definitely worth it.
