The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus announces selection of Kendra Meza as chief operating officer

The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus has named Kendra Meza, MBA, BSN, RN, chief operating officer, effective Feb. 1, 2026. In this role, Meza will serve as a strategic operational leader and a key member of the senior leadership team. Her areas of operational oversight include all ancillary departments, surgical services at the hospital and ambulatory surgical center, and the cancer center.

Meza currently serves as administrative director of surgical services, a position she has held for the past two years. She provides leadership across perioperative and procedural areas and works closely with physicians and clinical teams to support strong operating room utilization, coordinated daily case flow and consistent best practices. Her initiatives have led to honors as a top surgical services leader.

Before joining the health system’s St. Francis Campus in 2023, Meza served as vice president of surgical services at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. She also served as director of procedural services at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Missouri.

“We are excited to welcome Kendra into this new leadership role,” said Scott Campbell, chief executive officer of St. Francis Campus. “Her strong operational background and proven ability to lead collaborative, high-performing teams make her well suited for chief operating officer. Kendra’s focus on efficiency, quality and patient-centered care will help us continue delivering high-quality healthcare to our community.”

Meza holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Saint Luke’s Nursing College through the Rockhurst University partnership. She is an active member of the Kansas State Board of Nursing Advisory Board, the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses and the American College of Healthcare Executives.