Kerry L. Heinrich, Adventist Health president and CEO, spoke to students in the introduction to healthcare administration class at Walla Walla University in May 2025. That evening, Heinrich also spoke to students, faculty and community members for a colloquium lecture series sponsored by WWU School of Business.
“Heinrich's observations about the complexities of leading a healthcare organization in a tough and rapidly changing business environment were inspiring,” said Brendan Collins, Adventist Health Office of Mission program manager and class instructor. “Heinrich seems more energetic than ever to attack the challenges head-on and is deeply committed to the mission of Adventist Health to live God’s love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.”
Heinrich shared his journey from graduating as a history major at WWU, completing law school at University of Oregon, becoming general counsel at Loma Linda University Health, serving as CEO for six hospitals and now leading Adventist Health. He challenged listeners to open their horizons and not limit themselves in their personal lives and career journeys. He discussed how God always has a plan for our lives and challenged listeners to “stay open to His greater purpose for our journey.”
Heinrich reminded students that the mission of Adventist healthcare is carried forward not just through clinical roles, but through meaningful work in business, marketing, communications, operations, IT, innovation, chaplaincy and many other ways.
Collins said the WWU class provides opportunities to create connections between Adventist Health and WWU. “Getting to know students and encouraging them to discover where God is calling them is very rewarding — whether in healthcare at Adventist Health or elsewhere. Heinrich’s time engaging with students and inspiring them as they consider their own journeys was extremely well received at WWU," said Collins.
