Stewart named chief nursing officer for Baptist Health in Fort Smith, Van Buren

Baptist Health has named Brandi Stewart the chief nursing officer for Baptist Health hospitals in Fort Smith and Van Buren as well as the system’s clinics in Fort Smith metro.

Stewart has 25 years of nursing experience and most recently was vice president and chief nursing officer of INTEGRIS Health Canadian Valley Hospital in Yukon, Okla. During her time there, Stewart spearheaded numerous initiatives to improve patient experience and quality outcomes.

“I’m passionate about working closely with all members of a patient’s care team to improve safety, communication and the overall experience for both the patient and their families,” Stewart said in a statement.

Stewart has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Bacone College in Muskogee, Okla., and a master’s degree in business administration in healthcare administration from American Sentinel University in Aurora, Colo.

“Brandi brings a rare blend of leadership in nonprofit and for-profit sectors and a deep understanding of faith-based health care,” said Jeff Carrier, Baptist Health region president. “Her experience in advancing healthcare missions make her an exceptional addition to Baptist Health.”

Stewart is a native of Oklahoma. She is married with three adult children and three grandchildren.

Baptist Health Fort Smith has 492 licensed beds at its Fort Smith hospital and 103 licensed beds at its Van Buren hospital. Little Rock-based Baptist Health acquired the Fort Smith and Van Buren facilities in November 2018.

The system statewide has around 11,000 employees and includes 12 hospitals, more than 100 primary and specialty care clinics and is the largest private not-for-profit health care organization based in Arkansas.