NAMES IN THE NEWS

Norris McJunkins Receives Nurse Leader Honor

MARCH 10, 2025

Tamala Norris McJunkins, RN

Nurse One Stop recognized Tamala Norris McJunkins, RN, member of ASCA’s Public Affairs Committee and senior vice president and enterprise chief clinical officer of Surgery Partners, headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee, as one of the top five nurse leaders driving change in public healthcare companies, according to a release.

“In recent years, the role of the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) or Chief Nurse Executive (CNE) has gained increasing prominence in publicly traded companies, particularly within the healthcare sector,” according to the release. “As the healthcare landscape evolves, CNOs are playing a crucial role in shaping organizational strategies, improving patient outcomes and driving innovation in nursing practices.”

“Nursing is a rewarding and challenging profession, and I am proud to serve as a nurse leader who supports the essential clinical services provided by the nursing community,” Norris McJunkins says. “Nurses often serve as the first point of contact for our patients and their families during their greatest time of need, providing compassion and healing. I am inspired by the millions of nurses who continuously go above and beyond to make a difference.”

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.

“Through our varying nursing roles, we have a positive impact on the lives of others and bring vast knowledge and expertise to the healthcare setting to help ensure everyone has access to high-quality, safe care,” Norris McJunkins says. “By practicing with integrity and supporting our team members, we help drive innovation in nursing, achieve high patient satisfaction and positive clinical outcomes.”