At the Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation (JBRF), we celebrate leaders whose innovative approaches and dedication drive positive change in workforce development. One such leader is Anita Hammond, whose work exemplifies the power of strategic planning, collaboration, and a holistic approach to supporting healthcare workers.
As the Director of Workforce Development at Johns Hopkins Health System, Hammond brings over a decade of experience and a proven track record of implementing impactful workforce development programs. Her leadership has been instrumental in enhancing opportunities for frontline healthcare workers, ensuring they have access to training, professional growth, and holistic support. Now, as the leader of workforce initiatives at one of the nation’s most prestigious healthcare systems, she translates her lived experience and professional insights into actionable solutions that benefit healthcare workers at every level.
Hammond is a strong advocate for peer-learning, emphasizing the importance of sharing successes, challenges, and lessons with other organizations to create sustainable practices and advance industry-wide goals. “The sharing of information allows us all to be a part of an industry-wide approach to supporting the growth and development of our frontline staff,” Hammond explains. This philosophy ensures that healthcare organizations can build on proven strategies, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits workers and organizations alike.
Under her leadership, workforce development initiatives have evolved from small beginnings to comprehensive, strategically planned programs. Hammond recognizes the importance of a clear vision and long-term goals, which she prioritizes in her current role. Her focus on strategic planning ensures that initiatives not only address immediate workforce needs but also contribute to sustainable growth for both workers and the organization.
A hallmark of Hammond’s approach is her commitment to addressing the holistic needs of workers. She understands that investing in frontline staff goes beyond technical training—it requires acknowledging and supporting their personal and professional development. “This kind of thinking shows employees that their growth and development matter, both personally and professionally,” she notes.
Hammond’s leadership also highlights the importance of executive support in sustaining workforce development efforts. By fostering a culture that values frontline workers and prioritizes their advancement, she ensures that healthcare organizations remain committed to building equitable and inclusive workplaces.
Representation in leadership roles like Hammond’s is critically important, particularly for people of color and women. Diverse leaders bring perspectives shaped by lived experiences that allow them to identify and address systemic barriers more effectively. For underrepresented groups, having leaders who champion inclusive practices ensures that their challenges are not overlooked but are instead met with intentional, strategic solutions that lead to meaningful change.
At JBRF, we are proud to highlight Hammond’s achievements and her innovative leadership in workforce development. Her work aligns with our mission of addressing economic disparities and fostering opportunities for underserved communities. Through her visionary approach, leaders like Anita Hammond show us that true progress in workforce development comes from empowering individuals, creating lasting partnerships, and advancing solutions that are both inclusive and transformative for communities.