Celebrating the women who strengthen our region

DENVER, Colo. — March 8^th is International Women’s Day - a time to reflect, celebrate, and honor the women whose leadership and compassion shape our communities every day.

Women represent 77% of AdventHealth’s workforce; and we proudly recognize the professionals, mentors, and leaders who shape our culture and care. Across our region, women serve in clinical, operational, and leadership roles – each contributing in powerful and unique ways. This year, we spotlight just a few of the many women who make our mission possible.

Melissa Ohman

Director of Critical Care Services – AdventHealth Littleton

For Melissa Ohman, International Women’s Day is both a reflection and a reminder.

“It brings appreciation to the women who have championed gender equality and liberation,” she shares. “Without the passion and perseverance of the women’s rights movement, I would not be in the position I am in today.”

Melissa credits her late mother as her greatest influence. “She taught me perseverance, resiliency, and how to creatively solve problems. She could piece together something out of nothing. That taught me to not give up on a challenge, but to look at it differently and dig in.”

Her path into health care began while caring for her grandmother, who had an extensive cardiac history. Inspired by the confidence and knowledge of the nurses she observed, Melissa pursued nursing and eventually leadership.

“The most rewarding part of health care is seeing growth in those you serve. Watching a nurse succeed and knowing you were part of that journey – and that it will impact countless more patients – is an amazing responsibility.”

Dr. Rebecca Kornas, MD, FACEP, FAAEM

Medical Director, Emergency Department – AdventHealth Avista

For Dr. Kornas, International Women’s Day is a call to action.

“Advancing women’s health rights, closing the gender pay gap and ensuring equitable opportunity are not historical victories, they are ongoing responsibilities,” she says. “Today is both a celebration of progress and a commitment to continue the work.”

She was deeply influenced by her medical school mentor, Dr. Diane Levine, whose compassion and commitment to lifelong learning shaped her career trajectory.

Dr. Kornas was originally inspired to pursue medicine after watching her young cousin manage Type I diabetes. Though she initially aimed for pharmaceutical research, she soon realized her calling was direct patient care.

“The most rewarding parts of health care are the connections – with my team, with patients, and with families who come to us seeking answers.”

Haylie Ferrell

Safety Manager – AdventHealth Parker

For Haylie Ferrell, International Women’s Day honors the perseverance and leadership of women who have advanced equality while celebrating continued strength.

Her inspiration comes from many places – her parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, husband and coworkers – each shaping the person and leader she is today.

Haylie’s path into health care evolved over time. With a background in safety and occupational health, she became passionate about protecting those who care for others. “Who is looking out for those who take care of patients?” she asked. That question led her to hospital safety and emergency preparedness.

“The most rewarding part of health care is witnessing how people come together in moments of need. Whether responding to internal challenges or large-scale disasters, our teams unite with a shared purpose to keep patients and one another safe.”

Rachael Clark

Food & Nutrition Services Business Support – AdventHealth Porter

For Rachael Clark, International Women’s Day is about equality, strength, and knowing every woman’s voice matters. As a mother of a teenage daughter, she hopes the next generation grows up confident, and certain they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

Rachael draws inspiration from her father, who raised his children with equal expectations and encouragement. That foundation shaped her belief that women are capable of anything, a value she now passes on to her own children.

Rachael began her journey at Porter at just 16 years old, working on the tray line. Thirty years later, she still finds purpose in small acts of kindness, delivering a warm meal, offering a smile, or helping someone during a difficult day.

“The most rewarding part of health care is helping people in their most vulnerable moments,” she says. “No matter our role, we all make a difference.”

Ellery Reed

Chief Nursing Officer – AdventHealth Castle Rock

For Ellery Reed, International Women’s Day is a moment for reflection and responsibility. It highlights the resilience of women who have pushed for progress while also shining a light on those around the world who still face significant barriers. For Ellery, the day prompts an important question: “What impact can I have in supporting and advancing women’s rights?”

Ellery says her greatest inspiration is her daughter. Becoming a mother deepened her commitment to modeling strength. Today, she shares that watching her daughter confidently navigate the world is one of her proudest accomplishments.

Her path into health care began in an unexpected way. As a child facing bullying, Ellery found refuge in a long-term care facility on her walk home from school. There, small interactions revealed her natural caregiver spirit and desire to make a difference in someone else’s life.

For Ellery, the most rewarding part of health care is knowing that the work we do today impacts lives now and for years to come. She also finds joy in seeing others grow; advancing their education, earning certifications, and stepping into new opportunities that strengthen care for our patients and communities.

Heather Swiech

Practice Manager – AdventHealth Medical Group Family Medicine at Castle Pines

For Heather Swiech, International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the accomplishments of women around the world while honoring the obstacles they have overcome.

Heather draws inspiration from her mom and her daughters. Their wisdom and perspectives continually challenge her to grow and lead with intention.

Her path into health care was driven by a desire to help others, particularly by supporting the frontline teams who care for patients every day. “The providers, MAs, PSRs, and RNs are the true heroes,” she shares. “I’m blessed to lead and support them as they serve our community.”

For Heather, the most rewarding part of health care is seeing the positive impact on patients’ lives and working alongside strong, collaborative leaders – many of them women – who encourage one another to be their best.

Cynthia Stark

Mission Integration & Physician/APP Wellbeing Regional Director – Regional Office

For Cynthia Stark, International Women’s Day is deeply personal.

“It’s a moment for me to pause and give thanks for the women who have shaped my life, beginning with my mother,” she shares. “As a single parent raising two daughters, she modeled strength, perseverance, and unconditional love. She showed me what it looks like to work hard with courage and grace, even when the road isn’t easy.”

Now a mother of four – three of them daughters – Cynthia hopes to model that same strength and faith for her children. She wants them to grow up confident in their gifts, courageous in pursuing what feels hard, and trusting that their lives are guided with purpose.

Cynthia’s path into health care was a leap of faith. After working in a different industry and feeling unfulfilled, she spent a year in prayer and discernment, longing for her work to align with her personal beliefs. When an opportunity in health care presented itself, she stepped forward.

“Thirteen years later, I continue to feel deeply fulfilled,” she says. “I truly believe God has continually shaped my life and guided my steps, allowing me to bring my gifts to an industry where I can thrive while serving others with purpose.”

For Cynthia, the most rewarding parts of health care are “the people and the mission. I truly love what I do. I am incredibly thankful I get to work here.”