Children’s Harbor is proud to announce that our CEO, Cat Outzen, has been selected as a finalist for the Birmingham Business Journal (BBJ) CEO Awards. This recognition highlights her leadership, vision, and dedication to serving the families of seriously ill children throughout Alabama.
The BBJ CEO Awards celebrate outstanding executives in Birmingham who have demonstrated excellence in leadership and have made a significant impact within their organizations and the broader community. Cat Outzen’s nomination as a finalist reflects her extraordinary efforts in guiding Children’s Harbor through continued growth while maintaining its commitment to providing no-cost services for families facing medical challenges.
Outzen joined Children’s Harbor as CEO in 2020, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a passion for supporting families in need. Under her leadership, Children’s Harbor has continued its mission of offering refuge, respite, and resources to families of seriously ill children. Celebrating 35 years of service, Children’s Harbor operates two campuses: one, the Children’s Harbor Family Center located within the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children in Birmingham, and another campus sprawling 66 acres at Lake Martin in Alexander City. These facilities offer a unique combination of mental health services, illness-specific counseling, educational support, and interactive activities—all at no cost to families. Children’s Harbor’s work supports families from all 67 counties in Alabama, providing a lifeline to those navigating the most challenging times of their lives.
In addition to her role as CEO, Outzen is a respected advocate for child health and family support, with over two decades of nonprofit leadership experience. Outzen previously held the role of director of community outreach and children’s programs at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart in Pensacola, Florida. She received her Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from the University of Florida. Other accomplishments include her direction of the Western Panhandle Early Steps Program, Child Life, the Sacred Heart Autism Center, the school nurse program and media services. She also coordinated and ran the pediatric medical camps for children with chronic and terminal illnesses at Sacred Heart Miracle Camp for more than 12 years. Throughout her career, Outzen has been recognized for her innovative approaches to family-centered care, as well as her ability to build strong community partnerships that amplify Children’s Harbor’s reach and impact.
The BBJ CEO Awards celebrate those whose efforts contribute to the strength and growth of Birmingham’s business and nonprofit communities. The finalists are selected based on their leadership style, business acumen, and the impact they have made in their organizations and the community.
“We are thrilled and honored to see Cat’s hard work and dedication acknowledged by such a professional platform as the Birmingham Business Journal,” said LeAnn Crowe, Children’s Harbor’s Chief Development Officer. “Cat’s passion for Children’s Harbor’s mission and her tireless advocacy for the families we serve continue to inspire us all.”
The winners of the 2024 BBJ CEO Awards will be announced at a special awards event on December 5.
