At Willis Knighton Health, culture begins with a promise — the Always Here Promise — to continuously improve care by listening with empathy, caring with compassion, and communicating with respect and clarity. This commitment shapes every interaction and every patient experience across all Willis Knighton campuses and facilities, ensuring that employees, patients, and families feel valued, safe, and supported.
As Northwest Louisiana’s largest locally owned and operated healthcare system, Willis Knighton Health employs nearly 8,000 people and remains one of the region’s most prominent employers. The organization prides itself on a workplace culture that reflects its mission to serve with excellence while investing in its people and its community.
Willis Knighton is an equal opportunity employer, recruiting and welcoming candidates of all backgrounds and proudly supporting veterans through partnerships with the Louisiana Workforce Commission and participation in local career fairs. Each year, the WK Marketing Department celebrates diversity and service by honoring veterans and showcasing the system’s inclusive culture on its employee intranet.
The organization offers a robust benefits package that sets it apart from other employers in the region. Employees are eligible for a vested retirement plan after just five years, and every employee receives free short-term disability and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Willis Knighton’s own Health Plus medical insurance plan provides affordable coverage for employees and their families, requiring only a copay at the time of service.
Professional development is another hallmark of the WK culture. Through the James K. Elrod Innovation Center, employees can obtain essential certifications such as CPR, ACLS, Stroke, CPI, NRP, and TNCC at little to no cost. Willis Knighton also reimburses 100 percent of national certification fees and offers numerous workplace perks, including cafeteria, gift shop, and fitness center discounts.
Employee recognition is central to the Willis Knighton experience. The Gold Star Program honors staff who go above and beyond in providing compassionate care, with nominees featured on community billboards across the city. An annual banquet recognizes top honorees for outstanding service. Internally, the WK Connect platform keeps employees informed and engaged, celebrating milestones, sharing achievements, and connecting staff across the system’s many campuses.
Willis Knighton’s dedication to community service is evident throughout Shreveport-Bossier. As a nonprofit, the organization donates 10 percent of its profits back into the community, supporting local nonprofits, festivals, and initiatives. WK employees volunteer at events such as the Red River Revel, participate in Paint Your Heart Out home revitalization projects, and lead teams for the American Heart Association’s Northwest Louisiana Heart Walk, where Willis Knighton again served as the top sponsor in 2025.
Health and wellness are also prioritized for staff. Employees receive discounted memberships to WK fitness centers across Shreveport-Bossier, annual wellness incentives through the Healthy Merits program, and free flu shots, health assessments, and access to the Employee Assistance Program.
Dr. David S. Drummond, DPM, said the people are what make Willis Knighton special. “What makes Willis Knighton different is the people that work here. The commitment to do things the right way, to the highest standard, is always there,” he said.
Maintenance team member Doyle Moody echoed that sentiment. “From the day I started here, everyone has been friendly. We learn from each other and grow together. I’ve always felt like I have a place here.”
For Performance Improvement Project Manager Jenna Strecker, Willis Knighton’s investment in its employees stands out. “Willis Knighton helped me earn my MBA, supported me through LEAN SIX SIGMA training, and encouraged me to grow in my career,” she said. “They see you as an asset and part of the team.”
Nurse Tony LaSuzzo, CCRN, added, “I’ve worked at some of the top hospitals in Manhattan, but Willis Knighton feels like home. The teamwork is amazing, the resources are excellent, and the outcomes are phenomenal.”
Ranked among Forbes’ America’s Best-in-State Employers and consistently recognized for excellence, Willis Knighton Health continues to lead with compassion, invest in its employees, and give back to the community it proudly calls home — proving that when care starts locally, it makes an impact that lasts statewide.