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Karla Enderle is named as one of the most influential women of the year

women standing infront of building she works in

By April Eilers, Public Affairs Officer

Influential Women names VHSO’s High Reliability Program Specialist, Karla Enderleas one of the most influential women of the year.InfluentialWomen.com is dedicated to creating a dynamic platform where women from diverse backgrounds can come together, connect, and share their unique perspectives.

The mission of InfluentialWomen.com is to foster a community that empowers women through storytelling, thought leadership, and creative expression. By amplifying voices that inspire change, the platform aims to uplift and support women in realizing their full potential and contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society. Through this collaborative space, InfluentialWomen.com encourages women to create content that not only empowers themselves but also inspires and motivates others.

"It is an incredible honor to be recognized among such a powerful group of women who are driving change and shaping the future. Being featured in Most Influential Women is not just a personal milestone—it's a reflection of the collective progress we’re making in our fields and communities,” said Karla. “I’m deeply grateful for this recognition and inspired to continue lifting others as we lead forward."

Karla R. Enderle’s journey with the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO) epitomizes how VA supports and values professional development, fostering growth for both the individual and the community they serve. Karla's career, rooted in a diverse background of respiratory care, healthcare administration, and high-reliability organizational leadership, has been a testament to the enriching opportunities offered by the VA.

Her journey began on the frontlines in 2012, where Karla found her calling in serving Veterans. This profound sense of duty was crystallized during the COVID-19 pandemic, as she led a respiratory care team through the first year of an unprecedented crisis, demonstrating not only clinical acumen but also resilience, unwavering determination, and a steadfast commitment to patient care. Her remarkable service during this period was recognized with several accolades, notably the 2023 Respiratory Therapy Practitioner of the Year and the Military Challenge Coin from the 11th VA Secretary.

Karla now collaborates with executive and clinical leaders to drive systemic transformation. This role involves strengthening operational systems, promoting frontline voices, and cultivating a culture of psychological safety and high reliability, all of which exemplify the VA’s investment in creating supportive and empowering work environments.

Karla holds a Master of Health Administration from LSU Shreveport and Graduate Certification in Healthcare Informatics from Johns Hopkins University. She regularly collaborates with professional organizations and philanthropic initiatives across the country. She actively serves as State Captain for the COPD Foundation and Vice-Chair for the Arkansas State Respiratory Care Society, illustrating her broad influence and dedication to respiratory care.

VHSO congratulates Karla Enderle for this well-deserved recognition. Karla has set a shining example of continuous learning and growth, inspiring countless others through her leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

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