AdventHealth executive recognized as a local “Top 40 Under Forty”

Khelsea Bauer, chief operating officer at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach, was recognized by the Daytona Beach News-Journal as part of their Top 40 Under Forty designation.

During the March 14 celebration at the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art in Daytona Beach, Bauer also received the Rising Star Award.

“I’m so proud of Khelsea! She’s always been a star to us, and we are thrilled her contributions to the community are being recognized and celebrated among her peers,” said Dr. Dennis Hernandez, CEO of AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach. “Khelsea has a proven track record of impactful, positive leadership and we are fortunate to have her on our team.”

Bauer has served as the chief operating officer for AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach since 2021. During her tenure, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership in overseeing a diverse team of more than 350 professionals across clinical and non-clinical departments.

In the past year, she has been the driving force behind numerous key initiatives at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach, including more than $3 million in campus improvements, new imaging and surgical equipment, renovations to the employee deck and more.

With 10 years of leadership experience, Bauer’s professional journey reflects a commitment to continuous leadership development, mentorship, and a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“I come from a multicultural background of both Peruvian and Korean descent, and my experiences as a first-generation American have helped fuel my determination to break stereotypes, overcome cultural barriers and make meaningful contributions to our community,” she said.

As a New Smyrna Beach resident, Bauer actively contributes to community development. In partnership with the City of New Smyrna Beach, Mayor Fred Cleveland and the local police department, she serves on a task force focused on addressing homelessness. She is also a board member on the Edgewater Economic Development Board and the Southeast Volusia Chamber of Commerce.

Additionally, she leads AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach’s Caring for the Caregiver committee, which focuses on community service and team recognition activities, and serves on the AdventHealth Diversity Forum, mentoring emerging female leaders.