WMMC Announces Karen Caldwell as Chief Nursing Officer

Warrensburg, Missouri — Western Missouri Medical Center (WMMC) is pleased to announce the promotion of Karen Caldwell, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, to Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), effective Aug. 2, 2026.  

Caldwell has been a dedicated member of the WMMC team for more than 30 years and brings extensive clinical experience, leadership expertise, and a deep commitment to providing exceptional care for patients, families, and caregivers. 

Throughout her career at WMMC, Caldwell has served in a variety of roles, including Med/Surg nurse, Patient Care Supervisor, Acute Care Service Line Director, and Assistant Chief Nursing Officer. Her experience and dedication to nursing have played an important role in supporting WMMC’s mission and advancing the quality of care provided to the communities we serve. 

As Chief Nursing Officer, Caldwell will provide executive leadership for nursing services and clinical teams across WMMC. She will continue building on her commitment to nursing excellence, caregiver support, and high-quality patient care. 

Caldwell’s leadership has contributed to several key achievements at WMMC, including the organization’s Level II Primary Stroke Center and Level III Trauma and STEMI designations through the State of Missouri, as well as The Joint Commission certifications for Total Hip, Total Knee, and Total Shoulder replacement. 

“Karen has been a vital part of WMMC for more than 30 years. Her knowledge, experience, and steady leadership have been instrumental in strengthening the care we provide and helping our organization grow,” said Darinda Dick, President and CEO of WMMC. “She is a trusted leader whom so many across WMMC depend on, and I am confident she will continue making a meaningful impact as our Chief Nursing Officer.” 

WMMC congratulates Karen Caldwell on this well-deserved promotion and looks forward to her continued leadership in supporting caregivers and advancing exceptional patient care throughout the organization. 

Acerca del Centro Médico del Oeste de Missouri 

Western Missouri Medical Center (WMMC) is a fully accredited, county-owned healthcare system based in Warrensburg, Missouri, proudly serving Johnson County and surrounding communities. As an independent, not-for-profit medical center, WMMC is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care. 

WMMC provides a broad range of inpatient and outpatient services, including emergency and time-critical care, obstetrics, surgical services, primary and specialty care, rehabilitation, and diagnostic imaging. With a strong focus on patient experience, clinical excellence, and community health, WMMC continues to invest in advanced technology, dedicated providers, and innovative services to meet the evolving needs of the region. Learn more at wmmc.com and follow Western Missouri Medical Center on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.