JOPLIN, Mo. – Kristan Eaton has been named Senior Vice President Chief Human Resources Officer, for Freeman Health System, bringing 20-plus years of leadership and experience to Joplin’s largest employer.

She has served in human resource leadership roles across a variety of health care settings during her career, ranging from a high-volume medical group to large health systems. Most recently, she served as executive director of human resources for Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Ill.

"My HR vision is rooted in creating a culture where every team member feels valued, supported, and empowered to deliver exceptional care,” said Eaton, who starts this week. “In healthcare, people are our greatest asset, from the frontlines to behind the scenes, and my philosophy centers on fostering a workplace that prioritizes compassion, communication, and continuous growth. I’m truly excited to join Freeman, an organization known for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and community. Together, I believe we can make a meaningful impact not only on our employees, but on every life we touch."

What drew Eaton to Freeman was its strong reputation for clinical excellence, its commitment to the community, and its people-first culture.

"My top priority is to strengthen the workplace by honoring the existing strengths of our workforce and fostering a culture of collaboration, respect, and shared purpose,” she said. “I want every team member to feel a genuine sense of connection, value, and commitment to the mission of Freeman."

One key lesson she’s learned during her successful career is the importance of listening.

“Truly listening,” Eaton said, “with the intent to understand, not just to respond. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that when people feel heard and valued, they’re more engaged, collaborative, and resilient.

“In the fast-paced world of healthcare, it’s easy to focus on tasks and outcomes,” she continued, “but taking the time to listen builds trust, strengthens relationships, and often leads to better solutions. Whether it’s with a team member, a provider, or a patient, that simple act of presence and empathy has a powerful, lasting impact, and it’s something I try to practice every day.”

Since 2009, Eaton has overseen human resources at several prominent health care-related institutions, including Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames, Iowa; Green County Medical Center in Jefferson, Iowa; MercyOne Central Iowa in Des Moines, Iowa; and Advocate Aurora Health in Burlington, Wisconsin. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Kristan Eaton to the Freeman Health System leadership team as the new Chief Human Resources Officer,” said Matt Fry, President and Chief Executive Officer at Freeman Health System. “Her experience, energy, and strategic vision for workforce development will be instrumental as we continue to invest in our people and strengthen our culture. Kristan’s leadership will help us build a more connected, empowered, and purpose-driven organization, and I couldn’t be more excited about the future we’re shaping together.”

Eaton received her bachelor’s in human resource management from Judson University in Illinois and her Master of Public Administration from Drake University in Iowa.

During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and family, exploring new places and being outdoors.

“As I begin this new chapter, I want to say how grateful I am to be joining the Freeman family,” Eaton said. “I’ve always been passionate about helping people grow and thrive at work, and my career in HR has given me the unique opportunity to blend strategy with empathy, creating workplaces where people feel connected, valued, and empowered.”

To the staff, she continued, “I’m here to listen, to learn, and to support you. I’m committed to a collaborative, purpose-driven approach to leadership, one that inspires teams to work together toward our shared, meaningful mission that extends beyond our individual roles. I value transparency, active listening, and empowering others to lead from where they are. My goal is to help foster a culture where every team member feels deeply connected to our purpose and takes pride in the work we accomplish together.”

And to the community as a whole?

“Freeman’s mission of compassion and service is something I deeply respect, and I’m honored to support the incredible people who bring that mission to life every day.”