Lake Charles Memorial Health System CEO Presented as ‘Grassroots Champion of Louisiana’ by American Hospital Association

The American Hospital Association (AHA), in partnership with the Louisiana Hospital Association (LHA), named Devon Hyde, President and CEO of Lake Charles Memorial Health System, as the 2024 “Grassroots Champion” for the state of Louisiana.

The AHA’s Grassroots Champion award was created to recognize those hospital leaders who effectively educate elected officials on a hospital’s vital role in the community, who have done an exemplary job in broadening the base of community support for the hospital, and who serve as a tireless advocate for their hospital, staff, and patients.

The Grassroots Champion award is presented annually to one individual from each state, with winners being chosen by the state hospital association. LHA President & CEO Paul Salles states, “The LHA congratulates Devon Hyde on earning the AHA’s Grassroots Champion award. We commend his advocacy for patients and healthcare professionals, as well as his dedication to educating lawmakers on critical state and federal issues.”

“I’m truly humbled by this recognition,” shares Hyde. The privilege of representing Lake Charles Memorial Health System while engaging elected officials across the state and nation about issues that directly impact the healthcare landscape in the Lake Charles community and throughout Region 5, has certainly been a highlight and a priority during my three years as CEO at LCMHS. It is an honor to serve the southwest Louisiana community in this capacity.”

Along with his advocacy work, Hyde is a member of the board of directors for the Louisiana Hospital Association. He also is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Institute of Healthcare Executives and Suppliers.

Hyde’s advocacy has proven to contribute and supports the overall economic impact of the healthcare industry in southwest Louisiana. The healthcare industry leads the way as the largest employer base in the region, contributing over 15,000 jobs to area residents. The economic benefit from ongoing hospital operations in SWLA generated almost $2.4 billion in business sales and led to the collection of $114 million in state and local taxes in 2023.