Jyric Sims
Jyric Sims is an alumnus of LSU, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology.
He also holds a Master of Science in healthcare administration from the University
of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in public policy and
administration from Southern University in Baton Rouge, and a certificate in healthcare
leadership from Harvard University.
Sims currently serves as the president of HCA Healthcare West Florida Division. The
health system’s West Florida Division includes 16 acute care hospitals — including
HCA Fawcett Hospital in Port Charlotte, and HCA Englewood Hospital in Englewood —
providing a full range of services in the western portion of the state. Previously,
Sims served as president and CEO of Medical City Plano and Frisco, a health system
also within the HCA Healthcare umbrella. Additionally, he previously served as president
and CEO of Medical City Fort Worth, COO of Tulane Health System in New Orleans, La.,
COO of St. Lucie Medical Center in Port St. Lucie, Fla. and in executive roles in
Houston, Texas and Little Rock, Ark. Prior to HCA, he worked as an administrative
fellow and director of operations at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
He currently serves on the American Hospital Association Regional Policy Board of
Directors and Collin County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Sims has received
numerous accolades, including 2022 Becker’s top African American to know in healthcare,
2018 Young Healthcare Executive of the Year by the DFW Hospital Council, 2017 National
Healthcare Executive of the Year by the National Association of Healthcare Executives,
2017 Alumnus of the Year by University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and 2016
Modern Healthcare Up and Comer. He was also appointed to serve on a national delegation
to Israel. Sims is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Sigma Pi Phi
Fraternity (Boule), Young Presidents Organization (YPO), and Bunch Social Club in
New Orleans just to name a few. He also served as an adjunct faculty member at Tulane
University School of Public Health.
Jyric is married to his college sweetheart, Maisha, and they are the proud parents
of Sabriya (daughter) and Noah (son).
My LSU Giving Story
What is your favorite memory involving LSU?
My favorite memory of LSU is the lifelong friendships that I developed during my time
as a student and student leader. I met so many wonderful people who are still my friends
today, including my fraternity brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.
What makes LSU unique?
LSU is unique due to several factors, including its location within Louisiana, the
diverse student population consisting of both in- and out-of-state students, and the
rich history and tradition in athletics.
Why did you choose to attend LSU?
I was born and raised in Baton Rouge, so LSU is in my blood and has been a part of
my family for generations. LSU offered me the unique opportunity to be a student
leader, participate in student government, and travel internationally for the first
time. The reputation of LSU academics and athletics is known worldwide.
Why do you support LSU?
I support LSU because I truly believe in the university and its ability to transform
students into leaders. Aside from being an alumnus, I have several family members
who are alumni, including my sister, whose daughter and son are both students at LSU.
I support LSU because it’s our duty to give back to the university that has given
so much to us.
If someone asked you why he/she should make a gift to LSU, what would you say?
I would tell them to simply visit LSU and see the transformative impact being made
on students. An investment in LSU is an investment in creating the next world leaders
who will be equipped with the knowledge and intellectual curiosity to make a difference.
LSU is ranked one of the top universities in terms of value delivered versus cost
of tuition.
What is your vision for LSU, and how do you think philanthropy can drive that vision?
My vision for LSU is to see the university at the top of the SEC in every category
including academics, research, and athletics. We want to have the top professors and
top students and to grow and invest in a diverse population. In my opinion, this vision
is attainable, and we are well on our way.
What motivated you to accept our invitation to be an inaugural member of the LSU Foundation
National Board?
I believe in LSU from the bottom of my heart. I am a product of LSU, which has provided
me with tremendous opportunities throughout my life and career. I am in a unique position
to be able to influence giving to the university due to my extensive network contacts
and inspired vision of what LSU will become.