The award recognizes South Texas Health System’s impact and commitment to delivering exceptional workplace culture, fostering belonging and building strong communities.
A thriving workplace culture is a powerful driver of organizational success. When employees feel supported, respected and connected, retention strengthens, productivity rises and organizations are better positioned to grow.
By intentionally fostering an environment grounded in strong leadership, integrity, collaboration and mutual respect, organizations create spaces where employees feel valued, empowered and genuinely included.
This sense of belonging encourages engagement, trust and long-term commitment.
“When belonging is woven into an organization’s culture, it extends beyond internal operations,” says Carolyn Petties, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, System Director of Human Resource Operations, South Texas Health System (STHS). “It shapes policies, programs and communityfocused initiatives, creating a ripple effect that strengthens relationships, enhances reputation and amplifies impact both inside and outside the workplace.”
Nearly half of U.S. job seekers say company culture is a deciding factor when choosing where to work, according to Gallup. And once hired, employees who feel supported by a positive culture are nearly four times more likely to remain, highlighting the powerful link between culture and retention.
“Strong workplace cultures don’t happen by chance—they’re built by ensuring employees feel respected, supported and motivated to do their best work,” says Petties. “When people understand their value and see opportunities to gain experience, engagement and longterm success naturally follow.”
Through its commitment to people and culture, South Texas Health System has earned national recognition as a workplace of choice in the Rio Grande Valley.
The largest integrated network of care in the four-county region, STHS was named one of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community 2026 by Newsweek and PlantA Insights Group. The designation highlights organizations that prioritize inclusivity, support and connection in the workplace.
“This honor speaks to the everyday actions of our team members and leaders who consistently create a welcoming, collaborative environment,” Petties adds. “When employees feel encouraged and appreciated, they’re able to deliver the level of care and service our communities deserve.”
To identify the nation’s top 500 midsize workplaces, Newsweek and PlantA Insights Group analyzed large-scale employee survey data across 120 key performance indicators, including workplace happiness, work-life balance and inclusivity.
The evaluation also incorporated national survey results, independent research and third-party data, focusing on companies with more than 1,000 employees.
“The modern workplace has evolved beyond just a place to earn a paycheck,” says Jennifer H. Cunningham, Editor-in-Chief, Newsweek. “Today’s employees seek environments where they feel valued, heard and connected—workplaces that prioritize culture, foster genuine belonging and build strong communities. Companies that embrace these principles don’t just attract top talent; they create spaces where people from all walks of life can collaborate, innovate and thrive.”
We hope this ranking helps job seekers and professionals identify workplaces that combine personal connection with professional growth.”
For more on STHS’ commitment to excellence in healthcare, visit southtexashealthsystem.com. To learn more about the employment opportunities at STHS, visit the STHS Careers page.
About South Texas Health System
South Texas Health System is a multi-facility healthcare system serving patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The system includes four acute care facility campuses with specialties in pediatrics, heart and vascular services, maternity and women’s health and trauma services. Inpatient and outpatient treatment for behavioral health needs and addictive disorders is also provided through the system’s South Texas Health System Behavioral facility. South Texas Health System is affiliated with the South Texas Clinical Partners ACO, Prominence Health Plan and Cornerstone Regional Hospital. The system operates an advanced Level I Trauma Center at South Texas Health System McAllen, the first dedicated children’s facility and pediatric ER at South Texas Health System Children’s, the region’s only freestanding heart hospital and specialized cardiac ER at South Texas Health System Heart and seven freestanding emergency rooms located in and around Weslaco, Mission, Edinburg, McAllen, Pharr and Alamo. For more information about the system and its comprehensive services, please visit www.southtexashealthsystem.com.
Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of South Texas Health System. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.
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