IN THIS ISSUE · SPRING 2026 — Read the cover story
For Buffy Key, the journey from active-duty military service to CEO of the region’s largest hospital has been guided by a servant’s heart and a deep dedication to the people around her.
“My biggest treasure is being able to serve our community and region at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. This is home,” Key shared. “Having my entire immediate family living here gives me an even stronger commitment to supporting the teams at CRMC as we take care of our people — our people taking care of our people.”
She continued, “Cookeville has always been a special place to me. Having grown up here, there truly is no community more important or meaningful, especially considering the work we do. The connections we share as a community are integral to everything we strive to accomplish at the medical center on a daily basis. We are always working to bring every service that is practically possible to this region. Cookeville has always been home, and I’m proud to represent this community and the Upper Cumberland.”
Following eight years of service in the Army and National Guard, Key originally joined CRMC as a medical laboratory scientist before advancing to lab manager and director. After a tenure as Administrative Director of Clinical Laboratory Services at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, she returned to Cookeville Regional to lead quality improvement efforts. In 2021, she accepted the role of Chief Operating Officer before ultimately becoming CEO.
“I began my career as a medical laboratory scientist at Cookeville General Hospital in 1994 and have served in many roles throughout my time here,” Key said. “When I returned in 2011, I knew this was where I wanted to spend the rest of my career — giving back to the place that helped shape me.”
She added, “My goal has always been to embrace every opportunity in hopes of bettering myself and improving care for those we serve. Becoming a CEO was never part of my plan, but I am continually honored by the teams I get to work alongside every day at CRMC. Together, we believe our community deserves exceptional care, and I’m incredibly blessed to be part of that mission.”
Beyond her leadership at CRMC, Key has been recognized at the state level for her expertise and influence. In 2023, Bill Lee appointed her to the State of Tennessee Lab Board. Most recently, she was selected to serve on the Tennessee Hospital Association Board of Trustees.
As CEO, Buffy Key plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare in the Upper Cumberland. The decisions she makes have a direct and lasting impact on the well-being of the region. Her people-first leadership style, approachability, broad hospital experience, and sharp intellect combine to make her an ideal leader for CRMC.
“Although I always wanted to be a physician, God had different plans for me,” Key reflected. “I hope that I can play even a small role in making our region the center for exceptional care. If, through my position, I am able to help even one person receive the care and blessings they deserve, then I am truly blessed.”
The Upper Cumberland is fortunate to have such a capable, compassionate leader guiding its largest healthcare institution, and it is a privilege to celebrate 2024 Influential Person Buffy Key.
— written by Andrew Buckner | Photos by Abby Weeden
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