Lee’s Summit Medical Center, part of HCA Midwest Health System-Kansas City’s largest healthcare network-announced that Lee’s Summit Medical Center CEO Jackie DeSouza has been named to Modern Healthcare’s list of Top 25 Minority Executives in Healthcare. The list was published Apr. 7 on Modern Healthcare’s web site and in its April 9 print edition of Modern Healthcare magazine.

Those selected to the Top 25 Minority Executives in Healthcare are chosen by a panel of judges from applications submitted to Modern Healthcare. Candidates selected must have successfully served as a leader in a healthcare organization, shown the ability or power to effect change in the healthcare industry, demonstrated a willingness to share expertise with others in the field, served as a role model or mentor to other minority healthcare executives, and assumed a leadership position in the industry outside their organization.

“We are thrilled, but not surprised, that Modern Healthcare has selected Jackie for this honor,” says Mel Lagarde, president of HCA Midwest Health System. “She has the impressive ability to build and lead a highly effective and dedicated team and gladly shares her skills and knowledge with others. Her involvement with several community organizations reinforces her commitment to serving the community beyond the walls of the hospital.”

DeSouza, who has been with HCA Midwest Health System since 2000, was named CEO of Lee’s Summit Medical Center in 2011. Prior to her current appointment, DeSouza served for six years as the COO at Research Medical Center and six years as COO of Overland Park Regional Medical Center, both part of HCA Midwest Health System.

“I’m so pleased to be named among a distinguished list of minority healthcare leaders,” DeSouza said. “The diversity of this country is one of its greatest strengths and as a first generation American, I am proud to work hard at making a difference for patients and healthcare professionals of all backgrounds.”

DeSouza and the other honorees will each be presented an award at a reception in July.