The W. Daniel Barker CEO Leadership Award recognizes an active Georgia hospital/health system CEO or administrator who has made outstanding contributions to Georgia's healthcare community. The award is presented annually at the GHA Summer Meeting. The 2026 meeting will be held July 8-10.
Nominations
Please note that the hospital CEO/administrator/president and/or board chair must authorize this nomination and its submission to GHA. You will have the opportunity to note this authorization in the nomination.
Candidate Requirements
The nominated individual has developed an innovative approach to healthcare delivery that exceeds the traditional services of community healthcare providers. This person has routinely provided meritorious service on behalf of the Georgia healthcare industry and/or GHA.
Nominations should explain how the nominee meets the following criteria for excellence:
Leadership and Commitment
Describe how and why the nominee is a recognized leader in the hospital and community. How does the nominee work collaboratively with his or her community, colleagues and state to improve the healthcare status of Georgians? (750 words or fewer)
Innovation
Describe how the nominee's leadership has bettered the hospital and its services. What innovative approaches to healthcare delivery has the nominee made that exceed the traditional services of community healthcare providers? (750 words or fewer)
Advancing Care
Describe how the nominee has brought about positive changes that have advanced healthcare services in the hospital and community. (750 words or fewer).
Nominations
Any GHA member may submit a nomination.
Past Winners
Congratulations to Kurt Stuenkel on winning the 2025 W. Daniel Barker CEO Leadership Award!
See past winners.