Paula Baker
Chief Clinical Officer
Paula Baker joined Ozark Center 1981 as an administrative assistant and was promoted from Chief Operating Officer to Chief Executive Officer in 2003. Through her dedication to continuous quality improvement, Ozark Center has grown to become the largest and most comprehensive behavioral healthcare provider in the four-state area. Ms. Baker currently serves as Chief Clinical Officer and continues her role as Ozark Center CEO. She holds a bachelor's in education and master's clinical psychology from Pittsburg State University.
Honors include the Missouri Hospital Association 2008 Visionary Leadership Award, the Joplin Tri-State Business inaugural class of 10 Most Influential Women, and appointment to the Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders in 2008.
Professional affiliations include service on the Missouri Coalition of Community Mental Health Centers Executive Committee and the Ascent and Talkington Foundation Boards of Directors.
Ms. Baker plays a guiding role in civic organizations such as Rotary International and Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States, where she serves on the board of directors. Additionally, she serves on the Pittsburg State University Foundation Board of Trustees.
Ms. Baker loves her work so much that she rarely takes a vacation and often works on weekends. She is generous with compliments and kind words and makes those around her feel good about themselves and their work. She leads by example and inspires leadership in others.