
Alumni Spotlight: Heather Crawford (’23)
Thursday, January 2, 2025 | 2:14 PM
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Heather Crawford, who earned her Doctorate in Business Administration with an emphasis in Leadership in 2023, stands as a beacon of success and inspiration. After earning her doctorate, Dr. Crawford joined Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, a leading healthcare organization, as the Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive. In this pivotal role, she oversees nursing care across six hospitals, more than 80 clinics, and manages over 4,200 nurses across the Mid-South. Her leadership and dedication ensure that the highest standards of care and compassion are upheld.
Reflecting on her time at Liberty, Dr. Crawford emphasizes the unique aspect of the university’s curriculum that requires a Christian worldview application in academic work. “Liberty’s requirement of a Christian world-view application in our papers helped me to deepen and better connect with my faith and belief in God,” she shares. This integration of faith and education not only enriched her spiritual life but also strengthened her resolve and purpose in her professional journey.
Balancing the rigors of academia and a demanding career, Dr. Crawford demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination. At the same time as she was pursuing her doctorate, she also served as the Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations and Chief Nursing Officer. This dual commitment showcased her remarkable ability to manage and excel in multiple high-responsibility roles simultaneously.
“Liberty taught me the resiliency and management skills to accomplish my goals,” Dr. Crawford reflects. “You’ll experience challenges as you work through your degree, but keep your focus, and you can accomplish all your goals with dedication and perseverance.” Her journey is a testament to the power of faith, education, and unwavering determination.
Dr. Crawford’s story is not only an inspiration to her peers but also a shining example to current and future students of Liberty University. Her achievements underscore the university’s mission to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to make a profound impact in their communities and beyond. In celebrating Dr. Heather Crawford, Liberty University honors her outstanding contributions to the field of healthcare and her exemplary embodiment of the university’s core principles. Her success story serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through faith, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence.