Micheal F. Stephens, MBA, CCRP, FACHE is a healthcare research leader with more than 25 years of experience advancing clinical research programs in community-based health systems. She currently serves as Associate Vice President for Research for Baptist Health in Kentucky and Indiana, where she provides executive leadership for multi-site research operations, regulatory compliance, strategic growth, and innovation initiatives.
Ms. Stephens has held progressive leadership roles within Baptist Health Research, including Executive Director and Program Administrator for the Baptist Health Cancer Research Network, as well as Director of the Clinical Research Center. Her career reflects deep expertise in research across multiple service areas, federally funded and industry-sponsored clinical trials, workforce development, and operational excellence across complex healthcare environments.
She is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) and a Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP), with long-standing involvement in national research organizations including the Society of Clinical Research Professionals. In addition to her professional certifications, she has completed the American College of Healthcare Executives Fellowship and holds degrees from the University of Kentucky and Midway University.
Ms. Stephens is an active contributor to governance and advisory bodies, serving on committees focused on AI oversight, IT governance, compliance, and research strategy. She is also a frequent national speaker and educator, presenting topics such as multi-site research management, change leadership, study coordinator workload, health literacy, and the evolution of community-based clinical research programs.
Through her leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, Ms. Stephens remains committed to expanding access to high-quality clinical research and strengthening research infrastructure within community healthcare systems.