Ron Peterson, President & CEO of Baxter Health, Receives A. Allen Weintraub Memorial Award at the 2025 Arkansas Hospital Association Annual Meeting

At the 2025 Arkansas Hospital Association (AHA) Annual Meeting, Ron Peterson, President and CEO of Baxter Health, was presented with the A. Allen Weintraub Memorial Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the healthcare industry and his unwavering commitment to both his community and the well-being of patients and staff at Baxter Health.

The A. Allen Weintraub Memorial Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Arkansas Hospital Association. Named in honor of Allen Weintraub, a beloved longtime administrator at St. Vincent Infirmary Medical Center in Little Rock, the award celebrates the qualities that made Weintraub such a revered figure in both the healthcare industry and the community. Weintraub’s dedication to the hospital and healthcare system, as well as his devotion to the community, earned him the admiration of his peers and colleagues.

The A. Allen Weintraub Memorial Award is given to hospital administrators who demonstrate similar qualities of excellence, compassion, and leadership. Awardees are recognized not only for their exceptional contributions to the health and welfare of their communities but also for their strong civic commitment, their passion for quality care, and their visionary influence on healthcare.

Ron Peterson’s recognition comes in acknowledgement of his exceptional leadership at Baxter Health, where he has served as President and CEO for more than 18 years. Under his stewardship, Baxter Health has continued to grow and provide high-quality healthcare to the residents of north central Arkansas and south central Missouri. Peterson’s commitment to both the hospital and the community mirrors the values held by the late Allen Weintraub, particularly his dedication to the improvement of healthcare for Arkansans, his compassionate care for employees, and his consistent focus on advancing healthcare services in the region.

"Ron Peterson’s leadership stands out for its clarity, vision, and genuine commitment to both people and progress,” said Paul Wade, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “Under his guidance, Baxter Health has thrived, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare. His ability to lead with integrity, foster a culture of excellence, and drive meaningful change is what makes him so deserving of this award. It’s a true reflection of the impact he’s had on the industry and the lives of those we serve."

The Arkansas Hospital Association praised Peterson for his leadership, which has not only been marked by operational success, but also by a genuine concern for the well-being of those served by Baxter Health. His ability to inspire and lead with integrity, and his focus on quality patient care, has helped elevate Baxter Health as a leading provider of healthcare services in the state.