By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
When Andrea Gwyn walks into a room, it’s not just her presence that commands attention—it’s her legacy in the making. As president of Mercy Health St. Anne Hospital and Sylvania Medical Center, Gwyn has already achieved milestones many spend a lifetime pursuing.
She has elevated healthcare standards, championed mentorship and left an indelible mark on the Toledo community. With her recent recognition as one of this year’s 20 Under 40 honorees, Gwyn embodies a vision of leadership and service that inspires not just her peers, but future generations as well.
For Andrea Gwyn, success is not just about accolades. It’s about relationships, community and purpose. “Building solid relationships is key,” she shared during our conversation. “I was new to Toledo when I took the role at Mercy Health Perrysburg, so I didn’t know anyone. I had to be comfortable being the new person.” That adaptability stems from her upbringing in a military family, which taught her early on how to connect with people in unfamiliar environments.
But Gwyn isn’t just about fitting in—she’s about lifting others up. From spearheading Wood County’s first cardiac catheterization lab to achieving a 27 percent growth in ER volume, her career has been defined by bold decisions and measurable impact. Under her leadership at Mercy Health St. Anne Hospital, surgical volumes have increased by 22 percent, and patient satisfaction has soared, earning consecutive Press Ganey Human Experience Guardian of Excellence Awards.
Yet, Gwyn’s story is not just a personal triumph—it’s a collective one. She reminds us that when one person rises, they carry an entire community with them.
Leading with Integrity
When asked how she approaches challenges, Gwyn’s answer is both humble and insightful: “Energetically, people will always meet you at the exact time you need them and they need you.” Her faith in relationships and timing reflects her commitment to collaboration. Gwyn’s leadership philosophy is rooted in Mercy Health’s mission: Extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus by improving the health and well-being of our communities.
As the first president of Mercy Health Perrysburg Hospital, Gwyn successfully navigated increased patient volumes following a competitor’s closure. Her ability to lead under pressure has made her a trusted figure in Toledo’s healthcare system. “My word is my bond. I operate in integrity, serving people first,” she says.
For Gwyn, leadership isn’t about the title—it’s about action. And her actions speak volumes. Whether it’s advocating for her staff’s safety or introducing administrative technologies to enhance patient care, Gwyn’s focus is always on people. “People are at the heart of what we do,” she emphasizes. “My heart loves serving our healthcare professionals so they can best care for our patients.”
Mentorship: Building a Legacy
Beyond her professional achievements, Gwyn is committed to shaping the next generation of leaders. She mentors three young women and collaborates with organizations like Jack and Jill to host programs that inspire youth. “Paying it forward is very important to me,” she explains. “I’m standing on the shoulders of giants.”
Her approach to mentorship is as much about listening as it is about guiding. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of someone’s journey and to give the lessons on things you wish you would have known at that stage,” she says. “It’s a mutual exchange because mentor and mentee always learn from one another.”
This philosophy reflects her deep understanding of community. Gwyn knows that every young person she inspires has the potential to become a leader who uplifts others.
The Future of Healthcare
In a post-pandemic world, the challenges in healthcare are vast, from workforce shortages to evolving patient needs. But Gwyn sees opportunity in these challenges. “It’s an exciting and interesting time for healthcare, especially after an election. We keep an eye on changes in policies, but at the end of the day, people take care of people,” she notes.
Under Gwyn’s leadership, Mercy Health has embraced technology to support its staff and improve patient care. “Hospitals are open 24/7, so options that allow staff more focus on the patients’ needs are critical,” she explains. Initiatives like job shadowing programs and partnerships with Mercy College are helping to build a pipeline of future medical professionals.
Gwyn’s vision is clear: healthcare is not just about treating illnesses—it’s about creating systems that serve both patients and providers.
A Humble Trailblazer
From being selected for the prestigious HCA Executive Development Program to earning the Corris Boyd Scholarship, Gwyn’s achievements are a testament to her hard work and dedication. But for her, these accolades are stepping stones, not endpoints. “Life is a continuous learning process,” she says. “Some programs will land you a role and some will not, but it will pay off.”
Her advice to young professionals is simple yet profound: “Go for continuous learning opportunities.” Gwyn’s own journey, which includes her participation in the Leadership Toledo Signature Program, is proof that investing in personal growth can open doors and build confidence.
A Win for the Community
As a young Black woman leading in healthcare, Gwyn’s accomplishments resonate far beyond her immediate sphere. Her success is a beacon of hope for other women of color aspiring to leadership roles in industries where they are often underrepresented.
When Andrea Gwyn rises, she takes her community with her. She challenges us to ask ourselves: How can we lift as we climb? How can we build relationships that create a ripple effect of positivity and progress?
Her story is a reminder that every step forward—whether it’s mentoring a young professional, improving patient care, or breaking barriers in leadership—is a step toward a brighter future for us all.
So, the next time you hear about a young leader making waves in Toledo, remember Andrea Gwyn. Her journey is not just her own; it’s a win for the entire community.
For more on Andrea Gwyn and other 20 Under 40 honorees, visit 20under40toledo.com.