Norris-McJunkins Named One of 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives

NAMES IN THE NEWS

Norris-McJunkins Named One of 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives

JUNE 13, 2025

Tamala Norris McJunkins, RN

Tamala Norris-McJunkins, RN

Modern Healthcare named Tamala Norris-McJunkins, RN, member of ASCA’s Public Affairs Committee and senior vice president and enterprise chief clinical officer of Surgery Partners, as one of its 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives for 2025, according to a release. This recognition honors licensed clinicians in executive leadership roles who are shaping the future of healthcare through innovation, leadership and measurable impact. Honorees are selected by Modern Healthcare’s senior editors for their ability to drive transformation, improve outcomes, and influence their organizations and the broader healthcare industry.

“Dr. Norris-McJunkins is a mission-driven leader who brings an unmatched level of clinical expertise, compassion and strategic foresight to her role,” said Eric Evans, chief executive officer of Surgery Partners, in the release. “Her recognition by Modern Healthcare is a reflection of her extraordinary leadership and her deep commitment to delivering high-value, patient-centered care. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate this achievement with her.”

Since joining Surgery Partners, Norris-McJunkins has led enterprise-wide initiatives that have dramatically improved patient safety and clinical performance. In the past year alone, her leadership has contributed to a 57 percent reduction in surgical site infections and a 43 percent decrease in sentinel events, according to the release. She also has introduced education and workforce development programs that are equipping the company’s clinicians with tools for long-term success and growth.

“I am deeply grateful and privileged to receive this incredible honor,” Norris-McJunkins said in the release. “Receiving this award is not only humbling but serves as a reminder that clinical excellence is valued in our industry and the work we do to provide quality, safe care does not go unrecognized. This award is not only a celebration of my work but of the work our entire clinical team contributes to achieve the best outcomes for our patients and support our facilities. I could not achieve any of my accomplishments without the support of my leadership and my amazing team.”

Norris-McJunkins received her bachelor of science in nursing from South University and her master’s and doctorate of healthcare administration from Walden University. Before Surgery Partners, she worked as the vice president of clinical operations and chief nursing officer at United Surgical Partners International and as corporate director of regulatory operations at Texas Health Resources, among other positions.