story and photo by
Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer
Amber McKinzie currently serves as Chief of Hospital Services and Chief Nursing Executive at Bethany Children’s Health Center. She began the journey with the organization in 2011 as a staff registered nurse. Over the years, she steadily advanced through leadership roles, becoming Patient Care Coordinator and then manager of Patient Care Services from 2012 to 2015. Her dedication and expertise led her to the role of Director of Outpatient Services in 2016, and by 2020, she was promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer. Amber holds both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center.
An Oklahoma native, Amber devoted nearly 15 years to the nursing profession, with 14 of those years spent faithfully serving at Bethany Children’s Health Center. Her journey began when she came to the hospital for clinical rotations during nursing school. The children pulled at her heartstrings from the very first day. She picked up an application that same day and never looked back.
Over the years, Amber has embraced a range of responsibilities, including environmental services, infection prevention, dietary services, nursing education, case management and outpatient care, just to name a few. Her passion for helping others has guided her through various roles, allowing her to grow alongside the hospital. Amber is deeply committed to ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that the children receive the best possible care. “I believe that my path has been shaped by God’s guidance and I am grateful for where I am today.” Amber said. “As the hospital embarks on its next chapter, I am excited to see the continued growth and the development of new spaces to serve more children,” she added. Amber states that her biggest reward has been working with the children. “They’re truly the heart of what I do. I also have a passion for teaching which I get to fulfill by working as an instructor at Southwestern University, helping future nurses discover their potential, understand their purpose, and strive for excellence.”
Founded as an Oklahoma orphanage in 1898, Bethany Children’s Health Center has evolved into a nationally recognized leader in pediatric rehabilitation and 24-hour complex care. Today, the demand for specialized medical services continues to grow steadily, reflecting the critical role Bethany Children’s Health Center plays in pediatric healthcare.
Living in Oklahoma offers a unique blend of rich history and modern innovation, something clearly reflected in the growth of Bethany Children’s Health Center, located along the iconic Route 66. If you’ve driven past the center recently you’ve probably noticed the major construction underway. This expansion represents a significant milestone in the hospital’s growth, entering the next phase of outpatient services, marking an exciting new chapter in the hospital’s development, focusing on the next phase of outpatient services. The project aims to reduce wait lists, broaden access to specialized care and enhance collaboration among multiple healthcare teams. With cutting edge technology and advanced medical equipment, the new facility will not only serve as the core for the pediatric care but also a center for education. innovation, and expert collaboration and will have a place as a landmark on historic Route 66.
Guided by the creative visions of Storyland Studios and the architectural expertise of Rees Architects, the design concept for a 200,000-square-foot tower at Bethany Children’s Health Center is both imaginative and meaningful. Strategically positioned along historic Route 66, the tower is set to become a striking landmark, one that reflects the heart of the hospital’s mission. At the center of the design will be a bold and vibrant four-story caterpillar, symbolizing the powerful transformation children undergo through specialized care. Just as a caterpillar evolves into a butterfly, the children treated at Bethany Children’s Health Center are nurtured, strengthened and prepared to soar into the next chapter of their lives. The whimsical yet deeply symbolic structure will not only capture attention but also represents hope, healing and forward movement, a fitting tribute to the journey of every young patient who passes through its doors. Completion set for 2027.
As Bethany Children’s Health Center continues to grow, it remains grounded in its mission to provide compassion, specialized care to children across Oklahoma and beyond. Amber and the others have shown their leadership, experience and unwavering dedication in helping to guide the center through every phase of its journey, pledging the very spirit of the hospital, a place where healing, hope and transformation take center stage.
For more information about Bethany Children’s Health Center visit https://www.bethanychildrens.org or call 405-789-6711
