Webster Springs, W.Va. — Webster County Memorial Hospital (WCMH) Practice Manager Jennifer Shoemaker recently graduated from the nine-month West Virginia Hospital Association (WVHA) Leadership Academy.

The Academy offers participants the opportunity to gain the experiences, insights, networking competencies, and skill enhancements necessary to effectively lead terms in the workplace and in their community.

Shoemaker believes the skills she learned will help her in her day-to-day activities as a manager and open up networking opportunities.

“I’ve gained a better understanding of what it takes to develop myself as a leader.” Shoemaker said. “From learning about all of the different leadership roles within the healthcare system and learning effective leadership strategies and skills, I am better prepared to help engage and inspire hospital employees.”

Shoemaker, who has worked at WCMH for six years, is the second employee to complete the Leadership Academy.

According to the WVHA website, completion of the Academy provides hospital professionals insight on the healthcare environment and business leadership strategies. Additionally, they exchange ideas and network with their colleagues from across the state.

Additional information about the WVHA Leadership Academy is available online at www.wvha.org.