By Samuel G. Knox | UniteNews Staff Writer
Balancing a career in public service, healthcare, and community leadership is no small feat. With a rich educational background and a career rooted in advocacy, Heather Hardinger is making waves in Springfield as both the Director of the Office of Consumer Experience at CoxHealth and a Springfield City Councilwoman.
Heather’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in International/Multicultural Studies from Evangel University, followed by a Master of Arts in Political Science with a focus on Public Policy. This academic foundation shaped her perspective on leadership and community engagement. From economic development to workforce strategy and healthcare inclusion efforts, each role deepened her understanding of how systems impact people’s lives. Along the way, she found inspiration in mentors who led with vision and integrity, as well as the vresilience of the communities she served.
Transforming Healthcare and Policy
In her current role at CoxHealth, she leads initiatives to enhance patient experiences, improve language access, and foster cultural competence. Her days are a mix of strategic planning, advocating for equitable healthcare practices, and collaborating with teams to refine systems. Beyond healthcare, her work as a Springfield City Councilwoman focuses on policies that promote responsible growth, small business investment, and community well-being. Whether it’s in the hospital or city hall, her goal remains the same: creating systems that serve everyone equitably.
A Commitment to Community Impact
Her drive to serve goes beyond professional responsibilities. Inspired by the belief that everyone deserves access to opportunity regardless of their background, she has championed initiatives addressing economic development, housing access, and inclusivity. From small conversations with strangers to large-scale presentations, she finds motivation in every interaction. For Heather, success isn’t just about policy wins—it’s also about promoting connections and cultural shifts that leave people feeling seen and supported.
Navigating systems resistant to change has been one of her biggest challenges. Whether in healthcare or government, she’s learned that persistence, relationship-building, and strategic advocacy are essential tools for overcoming barriers. Among her proudest achievements are spearheading nationally recognized workforce development projects in Branson that emphasized cultural competence and inclusion. As a councilwoman, she has championed housing revitalization and infrastructure investment while ensuring neighborhoods have a voice in development.
On a personal level, balancing professional commitments with staying connected to the community is an achievement she holds dear. Her ability to bridge these worlds reflects her dedication to serving people at every level.
Looking Ahead: Building a Legacy
As she looks to the future, her goals are ambitious yet grounded: shaping Springfield into a city where businesses thrive, families have access to quality housing and childcare, and neighborhoods flourish. She hopes her legacy will be one of equity, progress, and intentional leadership that puts people first.
For those looking to make an impact but unsure where to start, her advice is: “Start where you are with what you have.” Whether it’s attending city council meetings or supporting local businesses, change begins when people show up consistently.
Navigating professional spaces that lack diversity hasn’t always been easy. However, she remains grounded by reminding herself that she belongs in every room she steps into. By creating space for diverse voices and staying true to her values, she continues to lead authentically while inspiring others to do the same.
Up Close & Personal
What is your favorite book and/or movie?
I really enjoy ‘80s and ‘90s nostalgia films—there’s something about their storytelling, humor, and charm that sticks with you. Some of my favorites include “Labyrinth”, “How to Make an American Quilt,” “Death Becomes Her,” and “Uncle Buck.” They each bring a mix of fantasy, heart, wit, and unforgettable characters, which I love.
What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing that has happened to you in your professional journey?
I have several interesting stories from my professional travels to and from Puerto Rico during my recruitment days. One of the most unexpected moments was landing at a rural airport with no taxis in sight. After realizing we had no way to get to our lodging, the pilot who flew our plane ended up giving us a ride. It was definitely an experience that highlighted the resourcefulness and hospitality of the people we met along the way!
What’s your go-to “power outfit” or accessory that makes you feel unstoppable?
A structured blazer with bold earrings—it’s the perfect mix of confidence and command. I love working with interesting prints and color.
What’s your “boss lady” theme song—the one that plays in your head when you walk into a meeting or big event?
“Run the World (Girls)” by Beyoncé is always a go-to for confidence and energy, but I also love Lissie’s cover of “Games People Play”—it has this raw, determined energy that resonates with me.
