Newsweek ranks Sentara among Greatest Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community

Newsweek has ranked Sentara Health on their 2026 list of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community. More than fifty Virginia companies were listed, five of which were healthcare organizations. 

The ranking draws on an extensive survey of more than 179,000 employees, 2.7 million company reviews, and over 120 key performance indicators, from leadership, integrity, and compensation to work‑life balance and community impact. 

“At Sentara, culture, belonging, and community are not side initiatives. They’re part of who we are. When our people feel respected, supported, and connected, they can do their best work for one another and for the patients and communities we serve,” said Becky Sawyer, executive vice president and chief people officer at Sentara.

Sawyer’s decades long journey with Sentara reflects what’s possible here. She began her career in an administrative support role, went to school, took on new opportunities and went on to become the first woman to lead human resources for Sentara’s workforce of more than 34,000.

“My story is one of many across Sentara,” said Sawyer. “We have team members who have been here for 20, 30, and in some cases more than 50 years. There’s a reason for that. In an integrated system like ours, you can build a career with real range, supported by strong relationships and meaningful opportunities to grow. If you’re willing to learn and stretch, there’s room to build a meaningful career here.”

Ensuring team members can bring their whole selves to work

Through inclusive leadership development programs, deeply rooted Employee Resource Groups, and trust‑based conversations, Sentara works to ensure every team member feels seen, heard, and valued. 

Newsweek’s study highlights that employees who feel they belong are “3.5 times more likely to contribute to their fullest potential.” 

At Sentara, that sense of belonging is reinforced through everyday practices and supports. From accessible mental‑health resources and flexible scheduling options to recognition platforms that celebrate milestones big and small, Sentara’s focus is on creating an environment where people can bring their whole selves to work. 

Sentara’s commitment to inclusion is also reflected in continued efforts to close representation gaps across leadership and frontline roles. Through targeted mentorship and sponsorship initiatives, Sentara is building clearer pathways for advancement and strengthening inclusive leadership at every level. 

Beyond the organization, Sentara’s impact shows up in community-based initiatives. Mobile health clinics, vaccination drives, and partnerships with other nonprofits advance Sentara’s mission to improve health every day by reducing barriers to care and strengthening support in underserved communities.  

“When we align our culture with how we show up in the community, our values don’t stop at the door,” said Sawyer. “They extend into the neighborhoods we serve, especially where support is needed most.”

Sentara is more than a health system. It’s a place where lives, teams, and futures are cared for and celebrated through a simple, yet far-reaching mission to improve health every day.