Tell us a little about you!
I live in East Lansing, MI, but am a native Hoosier, as is my wife. We have three children (Clark, Parker, and Kara) who are all named after superheroes and our dog, Leia, is named after the one and only Princess Leia (yes, I’m a total nerd). My interests include college football, playing hockey, and most things pop culture. I also love to play Jeopardy and Scrabble, as well as travel the globe, though the latter has been limited for the past couple of years.
Short description of the course you teach in the MSHM curriculum. How does the course you teach bring value to future health leaders?
I’m actually lucky enough to teach three courses as part of the MSHM program: Health Policy, Healthcare Finance, and Health Economics. Each of the courses is intertwined with the others as they are so intrinsically connected. I think these courses bring a lot of value to future health leaders because they provide an understanding of two of the most important pillars of the health service delivery system: money and policy.
The research area of interest
I’m a real policy wonk at heart and love to research how we can better improve health systems in the United States and across the globe. I also have a strong research focus on the intersection of health, policy, and the environment.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
In my “day job”, I work as a Senior Consultant for Deloitte Consulting where I focus on health and human services, as well as projects related to sustainability and equity. I love having the ability to explore new topics and develop my understanding of complex systems. As an Adjunct Instructor, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to be a mentor to students and help them prepare for the next steps in their careers.
What brought you to the O’Neill School?
I’m an alum! I earned my MPA from the O’Neill School (alongside my JD from Michigan State University College of Law and my graduate certificate from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine). I previously served as a Preceptor for the MSHM program during my previous role at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. When I learned of the opportunity to
come back to the O’Neill School as an instructor, I couldn’t respond to the email fast enough! It’s an honor to return to my alma mater to teach the next generation of leaders.
What is the most helpful advice you’ve received?
Don’t be afraid to step into the unknown. There is no “right” path in your career; it is up to you to blaze your own path and make the most positive impact you can along the way.
Do you have any advice for MSHM students who are about to become transformational healthcare leaders?
Be the change you wish to see in the world. Oh, and never stop learning!
Connect with Instructor, Christopher Jackson on LinkedIn!