Celebrating Women’s History Month 2026

During Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating the power of connection, mentorship and the everyday moments that shape who we become. The stories shared by women across Beacon remind us that leadership isn’t defined only by titles or accomplishments — it’s reflected in the relationships that support us, the women who guide us and the communities we build together. Their reflections highlight the strength, compassion and shared wisdom that continue to move our mission forward.

A heartfelt thank you to all our Beacon leaders who shared their stories and contributed their voices to this year’s Women’s History Month celebration.

Jessica Albar, MSN, RN, CEN, CLSSBB, Regional Director of Nursing for Beacon Allegan, Dowagiac and Plainwell

Who is a woman who has inspired your journey, and what impact has she had on your life?
“The woman who has inspired my journey most is my daughter, Taylor. She motivates me every day to be the best version of myself. I strive to live in a way that shows her that women can accomplish anything they set their minds to. Through hard work, dedication, patience and resilience, I want her to see that challenges can be overcome and goals can be achieved.

My personal and professional decisions are guided by the example I hope to set for her — one of perseverance, confidence and belief in her own abilities. She has shaped my approach to leadership, reminding me to lead with purpose, integrity and determination.”

What do you appreciate most about the women you work alongside, and how do they influence your leadership?
“What I appreciate most about the women I work alongside is their unwavering support and genuine eagerness to help one another succeed. There is a strong sense of teamwork and trust, where everyone feels valued and encouraged to grow.

Working with strong women in leadership is especially impactful. They lead with compassion, confidence and collaboration, setting the tone for a supportive culture. Their example reinforces the importance of lifting others up, working together and continuously strengthening our teams and the care we provide.”

Melissa Clark, MSN, BSN, RN, Executive Director of Nursing and Surgical Services, Elkhart General Hospital
In her role as the Executive Director of Nursing and Surgical Services at Elkhart General, Melissa brings a deep commitment to supporting the nurses and clinical teams who care for the community each day. She says that no two days look the same for her, but her focus never shifts: empowering nursing leaders, ensuring patient safety and driving high‑quality outcomes. Melissa oversees the essential operations that keep care moving like workforce planning, budget stewardship and removing barriers so clinical staff can work confidently and effectively at the top of their license.

Melissa’s work extends beyond her immediate teams, too. She partners closely with physicians, operations, finance, HR and the executive team to align goals with strategic priorities and create the conditions where people can thrive. Her visible, accessible leadership style strengthens culture and fosters connection, ensuring nurses feel supported and equipped to provide exceptional care. At the heart of Melissa’s leadership is her commitment to building an environment where teams can succeed and where the community receives the highest standard of care.

What keeps you inspired and motivated on the challenging days?
“I am motivated by the clinical staff and leaders who work alongside me. Seeing a new leader grow into their confidence, watching a team grow and overcome challenges together, rally after a difficult event, hearing that a change in process or product made a shift easier for the team or safer for the patient is what matters. It reminds me daily that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about impact and that motivates me.”

“On a personal level as a wife and mom, it keeps me centered and reminded that the work we do in health care affects real families like mine. On tough days, I lean into small wins, honest conversations and moments of gratitude as progress in health care is built on one decision, one person at a time. Even when it’s hard, I stay inspired by the belief that how we lead today shapes the care patients receive tomorrow.”

Tammy Haeb, BSN, RN, Manager of Surgical Services at Community Hospital of Bremen
“In the surgery department, every day depends on teamwork, preparation and trust. My role is to make sure our surgeons have what they need, our staff members are supported, our reps are coordinated and every instrument and supply is ready, so patients receive the best care possible.”

What do you appreciate most about the women you work alongside, and how do they influence your approach to leadership or care?
“What I appreciate the most about the women that I work with is the quiet resilience that shows up every single day. Everyone is carrying something — family responsibilities, health challenges, emotional weight, the endless balancing act of life — and yet they still bring intention, compassion and excellence to the work.

“Being surrounded by women who show up with that level of courage and commitment reshapes how I think about leadership. It reminds me that leadership isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence. When people show up despite their struggles, it teaches me to lead with empathy rather than expectation.”

Kari Snyder, RN, MSN, Vice President of Nursing at Beacon Kalamazoo
Kari has served as Executive Director of Nursing at Elkhart General Hospital since 2024 and previously served as Executive Director of the Beacon Franciscan Hospital Joint Venture in La Porte. In her new role at Beacon Kalamazoo, she leads nursing strategy, supports clinical excellence and helps foster an environment where care teams feel supported, connected and empowered.

What keeps you inspired and motivated on challenging days?
“Patient stories are at the heart of why I do what I do, and they continually remind me of the incredible impact compassionate care can have. Hearing their journeys and how our staff made a difference inspires me to lead with purpose every day.

“Equally inspiring is watching our staff grow and develop, both professionally and personally. Seeing team members gain confidence, strengthen their skills and discover their passion for caregiving fills me with pride and reinforces my commitment to supporting them.”