In 2002, she saved the lives of her brother-in-law and a small child in two separate choking
incidents. As community education coordinator and training center coordinator at CoxHealth, she shows others how they can do the same through basic life support training.
"I want to be sure that my family and your family are safe if you receive life support care from any instructor or student of our training center," Keith says.
Furthering her role as an educator, Keith is also the community education coordinator for CoxHealth. During her eight-year tenure, she's influenced health issues relating to smoking, breast cancer, stroke, child obesity, heart health and many other relevant health concerns.
"I believe leadership is empowering others to be leaders themselves," she says, noting that life experience has proven her philosophy and approach.
In addition to teaching life-saving skills to individuals, Keith also works with businesses to put basic life support instructors in workplaces.
"This is positive for the company's schedule, productivity and safety (and) creates ... a sense of caring among employees," she says.
Through her involvement in breast cancer education and Springfield's "Breathe Easy" campaign for a workplace smoking ordinance, she's been approached and personally thanked by individuals who have witnessed healthy changes in family members. For Keith, this is what her job is all about.
"Every screening that finds an unknown health condition, every program that influences someone to make a life change, or even that life saved because someone had the knowledge I provided are the accomplishments in which I am most proud," Keith says.
She received her bachelor's degree in health sciences from Truman State University and her master's in health promotion and wellness management from Missouri State University. Positions in health and fitness promotion prepared her for her roles at CoxHealth.
"I truly enjoy leading a cause and working with citizens to improve the health, wellness and safety of our community," Keith says. Through the years, she has provided leadership for numerous health issue committees and initiatives within the community. As the spokesperson for the "Breathe Easy" campaign 2003-2008, she learned that health issues sometimes spark controversy.
"I was appointed to the mayor's task force regarding the tobacco smoke ordinance. As spokesperson, I spoke at City Council meetings and granted interviews with the media. Although a passionate subject, I stood my ground when the opposition spoke loud and clear."
This installment of Springfield Business Journal’s Architects & Engineers Project Report showcases 26 endeavors by area design and engineering professionals.
