Susan Barrett/Health Care Rainmaker

In the biggest landslide of our Rogers Rainmaker picks, Mercy Health System of Northwest Arkansas President and CEO Susan Barrett was named by her peers the Rogers Health Care Rainmaker.

rBarrett took over the reigns for Mercy Health System of Northwest Arkansas Inc. — which includes St. Mary’s Hospital of Rogers — in February of 1999 after leading Mercy Health System of Kansas. During her time in Arkansas, Barrett has made many tough decisions. And the results have earned her tremendous respect from many longtime Rogers business leaders.

r”There’s no question Susan Barrett is No. 1 at one of [Rogers’] largest employers,” said one of our contacts. “We’re talking about a major hospital system going through some dramatic changes. She has stepped right up to the plate and hasn’t batted an eye. She’s a true leader in the health care profession, the likes I haven’t seen in a long, long time. She can be controversial at times. But what health care leader isn’t?”

rAnother leader in the community said, “I think we’re very fortunate to have Mercy and Susan Barrett here. It’s a solid, faith-based health care organization. We’ve got the best of both worlds — outstanding service and a very community minded leader. Susan takes the long look at things and see the big picture. She is very sharp and she is quietly making things happen behind the scenes.”