Phelps Health Director Honored With National Respiratory Care Award

ROLLA, Mo. – Phelps Health is proud to announce that Cheryl Hoerr, director of Respiratory and Sleep Services, has received a Life Membership award from the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC). This national honor recognizes her many years of leadership, service and contributions to the field of respiratory care.

Cheryl has been part of the Phelps Health team since 2009. She has spent more than 45 years advancing respiratory care through education, advocacy and mentoring others at both the state and national levels.

“I’m here, on this stage, receiving this award, because I said ‘yes,’” Cheryl said in her acceptance speech. “There are so many opportunities out there, and I encourage you to say ‘yes.’”

The AARC Life Membership award is given to people who show outstanding commitment to the profession and the association
“Life Membership is not just about time in the profession; it’s about leadership, service and making a real difference,” said AARC President Dana Evans at the AARC International Congress held in December 2025. “Cheryl has held many leadership roles, including President of the Missouri Society for Respiratory Care and AARC Vice President of Internal Affairs. She has given more than 100 presentations across the U.S. and internationally, written multiple publications, and taken part in research. As a respiratory therapy manager and director, she has guided high-quality, patient-centered care and mentored future professionals. Cheryl’s work is an inspiration to the field.”

Cheryl stays involved in both state and national organizations to keep up with changes in respiratory care and bring back knowledge and resources to support local respiratory therapists at Phelps Health.

“Cheryl’s Life Membership award from the AARC reflects her amazing commitment to respiratory care, education and leadership,” said Shawn Hodges, executive director of ancillary services at Phelps Health. “Her work has influenced the profession far beyond our health system. She has guided practice standards, mentored countless professionals and served the field for decades. We are so proud to see her honored on a national level.” Cheryl encourages others to take opportunities to get involved in their profession.

“I’ve been working full-time in respiratory care for 45 years, and I’ve had so many chances because I said ‘yes’ whenever asked to help on a project, serve on a committee or develop a program,” she said. “Saying ‘yes’ helps you grow in your career, stay connected to your profession and work with smart, dedicated people. You won’t regret it.”

About Phelps Health
Phelps Health serves over 200,000 residents in south-central Missouri. Phelps Health is county-owned, non-tax supported and overseen by a five-member elected board. Phelps Health employs around 2,000 people, including 100-plus providers. Phelps Health, which includes a hospital licensed for 240 patient beds, serves a six-county area, with its main campus and several clinics in Rolla, Missouri. Phelps Health also has clinics in Salem, St. James, Vienna and Waynesville, Missouri. For more information, visit phelpshealth.org