Cara Beard, chief nursing officer at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis, received the 2026 Tennessee Hospital Association (THA) Senior Executive of Distinction Award in recognition of her leadership and service. THA presented the award during its annual meeting held Sept. 24–25 at the Omni Nashville Hotel.
THA honored Cara Beard for nursing and executive leadership that has strengthened patient care and workforce development at Baptist Memphis. Her career with Baptist Memorial began as a nurse technician and intern and progressed to chief nursing officer. She has supported nurse residency programs with a high retention rate and academic partnerships that help team members advance their careers.
Beard’s leadership has also contributed to reductions in hospital-acquired infections and expanded access to advanced cardiovascular and stroke care for patients in Memphis and the surrounding region.
Please click here to view THA’s video honoring Beard.
During its annual meeting, THA also recognized eight other individuals and a community partnership with its 2026 Awards of Excellence for accomplishments in patient care, hospital leadership, workforce development and community health.
“Every day, Tennessee’s hospitals are making a difference for patients and communities through the dedication, leadership and innovation of their people. This year’s honorees exemplify that commitment,” said Wendy Long, THA president and CEO. “From improving emergency care and patient safety to strengthening our health care workforce and building partnerships that address the needs of our communities, they are turning challenges into meaningful solutions. We are proud to recognize their accomplishments and the impact they are making across Tennessee.”
