Ilda is a native Texan, raised in Eastland, Texas, and the youngest of four children. Healthcare has always been close to her heart, inspired early on by her mother and sister, both nurses, along with numerous family members serving in healthcare professions. With more than 34 years in nursing, Ilda began her career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). Driven by a passion for lifelong learning, she simultaneously attended Amarillo College and Clovis Community College to earn her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. She later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Mental Health and Wellness. Committed to advancing excellence in patient care and leadership, Ilda holds two national certifications through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Medical-Surgical Nursing and Nurse Executive (2015). She is also Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certified and has had research abstracts accepted at the national level for her work on workplace violence prevention and community collaboration in healthcare. Ilda is a TCU Fellow, serves as a mentor for the American Nurses Association, and is a lifelong learner in FEMA disaster management. Over the course of her career, she has progressed from staff nurse to supervisor, manager, and served 19 years as a Director of Nursing. She has led and co-led numerous system-level initiatives, contributed to hospital design projects, and has represented healthcare organizations through media appearances including commercials, billboards, and magazine features. A few recognitions and service include: • “Great 100 Nurses in Texas” honoree (2005) • Chair, Stephenville Chamber of Commerce (2017) • Nursing Advisory Board Member, Weatherford College • Mentor, American Nurses Association After relocating to College Station, Ilda served as Director of Acute Care Services for Baylor Scott & White and successfully led through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She later returned to the Dallas–Fort Worth area to be closer to family and now serves as Hospital Administrator for Baylor Scott & White Emergency Hospital – Keller and Baylor Scott & White Emergency Hospital – Colleyville. She considers it a true blessing to work in a profession where skill and compassion unite to serve others. Ilda is the proud mother of two grown sons who work in renewable wind energy for GE and Siemens Gamesa. Before the age of 18, they traveled to 30 states with her, creating lifelong memories rooted in adventure and exploration. Ilda is also a proud “Grammy” of 2 brilliant grandsons. She enjoys traveling domestically and internationally, spending time with her church family, music, volunteering, leading community initiatives, and cherishing moments with family and friends. An adventurous spirit at heart, Ilda has shark fished, bungee jumped, and met numerous celebrities, government officials, and a couple of U.S. Presidents. Yet at the end of the day, she finds equal joy in slowing down—relaxing on the patio with good music, great food, and meaningful conversation. A natural connector and community advocate, Ilda is passionate about sharing the mission and services of Baylor Scott & White Emergency Hospitals throughout the DFW area. She remains dedicated to growing strong teams and serving her community with compassion, integrity, and excellence. ________________________________________