Propelled with purpose: Kay Barnett’s journey to CEO and the power of mentorship

MINNEOLA, Fla -- For Kay Barnett, leadership goes beyond a job title. It’s about presence, perseverance and empowering others along the way. As the newly appointed chief executive officer of AdventHealth Minneola hospital, her journey is one of growth, resilience and the impact of mentorship in shaping her path.

"I became really inspired by seeing people in health care make a difference." -- Kay Barnett

When the four-story, 80-bed hospital opens in January 2026, it will mark a new chapter in Barnett’s career, one she never imagined when she first stepped into the health care world. “Growing up with a stay-at-home mother, I never really expected or envisioned myself to be a woman who had a demanding career,” Barnett said. “But over time, I became really inspired by seeing people in health care make a difference.” This inspiration is how she became fascinated by the impact she could have on people’s lives.

Shortly after graduating from Union College in Lincoln, Neb., Barnett went to work at AdventHealth. She began her career with the organization in internal communications. From writing team member communications to helping plan town hall meetings at AdventHealth Altamonte Springs, she found herself drawn to the organization’s mission and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

She quickly advanced into business development, strategy, and eventually, executive leadership roles that positioned her to take on her most significant challenge yet leading AdventHealth Minneola. But she didn’t walk this path alone. Barnett credits the mentorship she received throughout her career as a defining force in her success.

“My mentors have been invaluable,” she said. “Getting to hear their journeys and how they’ve navigated different dynamics has been so impactful. They’ve pushed me to think deeply about how I can grow, how I can act differently and better, and not allowed me to take the easy way out.”

Two mentors stand out: AdventHealth Celebration CEO Amanda Maggard, her first leader at AdventHealth and a continuing source of inspiration, and longtime AdventHealth executive Terry Owen, who has invested time in helping her develop as a leader.

“Both have inspired me and have become great friends. Both are not afraid to have tough conversations and provide the feedback you need, exactly when you need it. Honesty and guidance are qualities I truly appreciate,” she added.

Barnett also mentors others. She has not only aimed to provide valuable support but has also experienced her own continuing development. The process has shaped her as a leader and a lifelong learner, reinforcing the impact of mentorship on both sides.

Now, as she prepares to open a hospital from the ground up, Barnett is focused on not just operational excellence, but also fostering a culture that will define AdventHealth Minneola for years to come.

“I want people who come to AdventHealth Minneola 20 years from now to really think, ‘Wow, look at the team and the culture that has been built here and how this is a team that knows what it's like to extend empathetic care and make this community feel whole,’” she added.

As a mother of two young boys, she understands the importance of balance. She credits her husband, Ryan, as a trusted partner in both parenting and life, reinforcing the idea that leadership is about teamwork whether at home or in the workplace.

For Women’s History Month, Barnett’s story serves as an example of what’s possible when women step into their power, support one another and embrace mentorship as a guiding force.

“You have more power than you can even imagine,” she said. “Focus on where you are today and doing your absolute best. That’s what carries you forward into greater opportunities to extend your talents into new and different places.”