Candice Smith, MSN, Chief Executive Officer, Hereford Regional Medical Center
Candice Smith is the Chief Executive Officer of Deaf Smith County Hospital District in Hereford, Texas. With over 23 years of experience in healthcare, she has dedicated the last 12 years to leadership roles in the industry. Candice’s career in healthcare leadership is built on a foundation of diverse nursing experience, which spans pediatrics, intensive care, trauma services, and clinical nursing instruction.
Prior to assuming her current role, Candice served as the Chief Nursing Officer at Deaf Smith County Hospital District, where she had a significant impact on patient care and operational leadership. Before joining Hereford Regional Medical Center in 2016, Candice spent 13 years at Northwest Texas Hospital, where she held several leadership roles. She also served as Chief Nursing Officer at Plum Creek Long Term Acute Care Facility for three years.
Candice holds a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from the University of Phoenix (2013) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Texas A&M University (2004). In 2023, she earned certification as a Rural Health Chief Nursing Officer from the National Rural Hospital Association. Her expertise also includes certification as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (2008) and a notable 2017 nomination as one of the Panhandle’s Top 25 Nurses.
In addition to her leadership roles, Candice is deeply committed to her community. She serves as a board member for Deaf Smith County’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for kids and is active on the Panhandle Regional Advisory Council. Candice is also a representative for Deaf Smith County on the Amarillo College Council and serves on the Hereford Day Care board. She is a Council Member of the Texas Disaster Preparedness Committee and contributes to the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force, supporting statewide disaster readiness.
Outside of work, Candice enjoys outdoor adventures with her husband Justin and their two sons, Brayden and Brock. Whether skiing, camping, hunting, or exploring the great outdoors, she cherishes family time and making lasting memories.