Motherhood and Leadership: Heather N. McKenzie's Journey of Understanding
“Strive to be present, taking one day at a time and giving the gift of grace to all you encounter.” That is the advice Heather N. McKenzie, MBA, BSN, RN, BCC, Executive Healthcare Leader for AbsoluteCare Medical Center & Pharmacy would offer to younger colleagues.
“No two people share the same life experience, therefore always check your assumptions, question the norms, and explore expectations to meet people where they are and grow together. I look back at my younger self, I was very impatient living in a world of black and white but we really live in a world of gray.”
“As an executive nurse leader in healthcare, I lead teams to provide for the most vulnerable, at-risk, and socially disadvantaged, in our urban communities. Our members have been through a lot in their lifetime resulting in conditions that really need support. Walking through their healthcare journeys has given me compassion and insight into the uniqueness of each life.”
“To me, leadership means seeing each person or team member as an individual. Meet them where they are and learn how you can best support them for their unique needs. It isn’t always easy but it should be the standard in the business of people – that is equity in the workplace.”
“During a CHIEF meeting, we did a career-mapping exercise. What struck me was how deeply motherhood has impacted my life both as a mom and a leader. Newborns are so fragile. We have an immense responsibility to keep them safe and nurture them guiding them to become contributing members of society.
“Becoming a mother was very pivotal for me. I often reflect on who I am as a person and how I’m showing up for this little person who is looking to me for guidance. Many times, I’ve taken those life lessons back into the business world to help support and create success for my team.”
“Being a mother can enhance our work, not diminish it! With the right support, we can be high-achieving performers and still be excellent moms.”
“I found Alissa through CHIEF and followed her on LinkedIn. I was immediately drawn to her headshots, every single person she photographed looked confident, powerful yet approachable. I never saw a bad image.
“So, I took the plunge and decided it was time. I needed a new image to represent how I was approaching another decade.
“I am beyond thrilled with the entire headshot experience. Alissa's attention to detail from posture to hair placement and selection of clothing immediately put me at ease, I was clearly in good hands.
From the test shots to the final images, Alissa helped me project confidence and comfort in front of the camera, something I had always previously struggled with. With her expertise, we got ‘the shot’. I truly felt like a rock star for the day!”