Published on Mar. 31, 2026
In recognition of Women’s History Month, three MemorialCare leaders were honored in 2026 by local and state elected officials for their leadership, service and lasting impact on community health.
Stephanie Garcia, MSN, RN, TCRN, vice president of operations at MemorialCare’s Long Beach Medical Center and Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, was selected as a 2026 Woman of Distinction by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal of California’s 69th Assembly District. Garcia was recognized for her leadership in hospital operations and her commitment to improving access, quality and patient experience for families across the greater Long Beach community.
Yemi Adeyanju, vice president, deputy general counsel and corporate secretary at MemorialCare, was nominated by MemorialCare for the “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future” initiative led by Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley. Adeyanju’s nomination recognized her leadership in healthcare governance, legal strategy and advocacy, helping ensure strong, ethical and sustainable health systems for the future.
Shela Kaneshiro, MBA, RN, FACHE, chief executive officer of MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, was recognized as a Woman Who Inspires by Sen. Catherine Blakespear of California’s 38th Senate District. Kaneshiro was honored for her leadership in healthcare transformation and her commitment to advancing patient safety, clinical quality and compassionate, community-centered care across Southern Orange County.
Teresa “Resa” Evans, board chair, MemorialCare, was named a 2026 California Woman of Distinction by Sen. Tony Strickland, representing the 36th Senate District. Evans was honored for her governance leadership and dedication to strengthening MemorialCare’s mission of advancing health and well‑being throughout the communities it serves.
Healthcare is strongest when it is guided by leaders who reflect the communities they serve and who are committed to improving lives beyond hospital walls. According to the American Heart Association, women, particularly mothers, shoulder an estimated 80% of family medical decision-making, reflecting their central role in managing household health needs.
These recognitions highlight the critical role women play in shaping the future of healthcare—through clinical leadership, system governance and community‑focused advocacy.
“Stephanie, Yemi, Shela and Resa each bring a powerful combination of expertise, integrity and mission‑driven leadership to MemorialCare,” says David Kim, M.D., president, MemorialCare. “I As a father of three daughters, the importance of women in leadership is deeply personal to me. I’m reminded everyday how critical it is to support and advanced women in leadership – both for the future of healthcare and for the next generation. It is especially meaningful that their recognition aligns with Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women whose leadership strengthens institutions and improves health outcomes. These honors reflect MemorialCare’s commitment to purpose-driven leadership, accountability and community impact.”
By honoring women who lead with purpose and accountability, these programs underscore the importance of inclusive leadership in driving better health outcomes, stronger institutions and healthier communities. For MemorialCare, the recognition reflects a continued commitment to advancing care, equity and long‑term community well‑being.