Emerging leaders 1991. Six who have arrived

"I would quibble with the idea that Cheryl is an 'emerging leader,"' observes a colleague of one of this year's honorees. "I believe she has arrived." In truth, each of the six extraordinary people cited as 1991's Emerging Leaders have had a major impact on their organizations and, by example and design, on the nature and quality of healthcare in their communities. But then, the annual call for nominations demands nothing less. Sponsors Korn/Ferry International and The Healthcare Forum are "looking for...talented people with the proven ability to nurture the growth of the industry. They are dynamic, decisive young leaders who have already made a mark." Five men and one woman, all age 40 or younger, were selected as this year's Emerging Leaders in two separate categories. Three represent large healthcare organizations, three smaller urban or rural institutions--generally hospitals with fewer than 200 beds. Interestingly, nearly all were influenced to pursue careers in healthcare at an early age. Two had physician parents, two were sons of healthcare administrators, two worked in hospitals as teenagers. All, of course, have shown their mettle in difficult times and complex, uncomfortable situations. All have been pivotal in turning around failing--or at least beleaguered--organizations. Yet, while each has labored diligently to further the interests of his or her own organization and constituency, each has also sought to shape a more cooperative system. As honoree Larry Sanders observes, "Competition without conscience will deny our claim to a true community leadership role." Marveling at the accomplishments of honoree Kevin Fickenscher, an awed peer declared: "One of these days we'll all be working for him!"(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)