News Release
PHOENIX [June 05, 2023] – Phoenix Children’s, one of the nation’s fastest-growing pediatric health systems, today announced the appointment of Larry Perkins, Ph.D., as vice president of leadership development and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Perkins has more than four decades of experience in human resources, education and training. In his new role, he will focus on leadership development, performance management and engagement, and advancing Phoenix Children’s DEI strategy.
“Recruitment and retention are top priorities for Phoenix Children’s as we continue to expand our workforce and open additional sites of service. We’re committed to being the healthcare employer of choice in the Valley, and that includes not only creating opportunities for our staff to learn and grow in their careers, but also ensuring our workforce reflects our diverse patient population,” said Kety Duron, senior vice president and chief human resources officer at Phoenix Children’s. “Larry’s experience in healthcare human resources leadership and DEI make him uniquely positioned to drive this work forward.”
Most recently, Perkins served for a decade as associate vice president of talent and diversity at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. In this role, he and his team were responsible for creating the vision and operational strategy for the MD Anderson Leadership Institute, overseeing talent management and increasing employee engagement. He was instrumental in diversity strategic planning resulting in recognition on the Forbes Best Companies for Diversity list for five consecutive years.
“Developing our leaders at Phoenix Children’s is an essential component of realizing our mission to advance hope, healing and the best healthcare for children and their families. I’m equally committed to DEI, which has a place in all facets of healthcare, from talent acquisition to training and care delivery,” said Perkins. “I look forward to partnering with colleagues throughout the healthcare system to promote leadership development and inclusivity.”
Prior to leading talent and diversity efforts at MD Anderson, Perkins served as administrative director of organization development and clinical education at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. He retired from the U.S. Army in 2001 as a colonel after serving in numerous leadership positions including as director for the Center for Enhanced Performance within the United States Military Academy.
Perkins earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Kansas State University, a master’s in counseling from Boston University, and a doctorate in education from Capella University. He has served on the board of directors for the Texas Diversity Council and National Healthcare Diversity Council and regularly speaks on organizational transformation and leadership in the workplace.
Phoenix Children’s is an ideal environment for those looking to grow their career in healthcare. For more information on rewarding career opportunities at Phoenix Children’s, visit phoenixchildrens.org/careers.