Please tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare:

I wanted to build custom homes coming out of school, but 2008 hit and no homes were being built.  I ended up working with a general contractor that placed me on a hospital expansion and renovation job.  I immediately fell in love with being inside a hospital.  There was such an inspiring energy and the mission of healing people and being a beacon of hope within a community struck something in me.  I ended up quitting my job, going back to school, and starting my healthcare career.  It is one of the best decisions I have ever made.

 

What activities do you like to do in your free time?

I have (5) kids, so most of my free time is spent supporting them.  When I do get a few free minutes, I enjoy being physically active whether that be running, walking trails, or skiing!  I am from Indiana so I love basketball, and you will catch me following the Houston Rockets.  I am excited about our season this year!

What is your favorite ACHE memory or activity?

Congress is always one of my favorite events of the year.  It is a great time to connect with colleagues across the country and learn from others.  I am thrilled we get to show off Houston for a couple of years as the host.

 

 

How do you envision healthcare in the next 10 years?

My hope is that we have radically changed healthcare.  I am optimistic that we will see more humanity, personal connections, and a reinvigorated commitment to the health of our communities.  AI and technology are enablers, but people are at the center of what we do, and I want us to not lose sight of that.  We must stop recycling the same issues decade after decade with marginal improvement.  If we can harness the hearts and minds of the incredible talent in healthcare, we can make a monumental impact.