2024 40 Under 40: Nick Meinhardt

The entirety of Nick Meinhardt’s 14-year health care career has taken place at Mercy Springfield Communities, where he now serves as its director of client services.

His responsibilities cover the southwest Missouri region, including seven hospitals and over 150 clinics. Meinhardt, 38, says he’s gravitated since early in his career to leadership opportunities that let him connect the Mercy team with its mission of caring for others with dignity and respect. 

At Mercy, he helped found its Healthcare Young Professional Empowerment group, a mentorship program that promotes professional development and community volunteering.

Outside the health system, his community work includes serving as a leadership council member for The Network for Springfield’s Young Professionals and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s parish council.

Your professional aha moment? I went to the Sisters of Mercy convent in St. Louis for a two-day leadership retreat. I got to hear from Sister Roch and really felt a deep connection to Mercy’s history and mission. 

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? One of my previous leaders and friends at Mercy told me to find creative ways to say yes to those you work with. Be solution focused. 

Favorite podcast? Father Mike Schmitz!

Favorite local food/drink order? Cashew Chicken from Peking House is a family favorite.