Tell us a little about you! (family, pets, interests)

I serve as the Chief of Staff for the Indiana University Health South Central Region and have been with the IU Health organization for almost 15 years. I’m a two-time alumna of Indiana University and am excited to be wrapping up my first year of teaching as an adjunct faculty member for the Master of Science Health Care Management program. In my free time, I love to cheer on the Hoosiers, cycle, travel, hike, play with my 6-month-old Bernedoodle puppy, Mocha, and spend time with my boyfriend and his 14-year-old son.

Short description of the course you teach in the MSHM curriculum. How does the course you teach bring value to future health leaders?

I currently teach a section of Practicum 1, Practicum 2, and the Capstone course which flow together as continuous learning of our healthcare leaders through their practicum experiences. Practicums 1 and 2 help set our leaders up for success as they are getting placed with a practicum site and learning the necessary tools and skills to help set them up for success within the sites. The Capstone course supports their final Capstone defense project at the end of the program.

Are you currently working on any large projects or research initiatives? (Can you please clarify if this is specific to the MSHM program?)

As Chief of Staff for the IU Health South Central Region, I have a variety of projects on my plate at any time. One project I’m currently excited about that I am accountable for across the IU Health South Central Region is a strategic initiative focused on the development of our leaders as well as the creation of Leader Standard Work.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

One thing I have always loved through my career at IU Health and during my time as Chief of Staff is the ability to work with so many different individuals. As a health care leader, I am regularly working with a variety of multi-disciplinary teams within the organizations as well as key stakeholders from our community. The ability to work collectively to make a difference in the lives of the patients and communities we serve is something I’ve always been passionate and committed to.

What brought you to the O’Neill School?

I had the privilege of working with Director Grudi at IU Health which is how I initially became engaged with the MSHM program. I had the opportunity to connect with students for mentoring conversations, engaged in some class discussions, and sat in on Defense presentations as a community member prior to being asked to join the MSHM program as an adjunct faculty member. I’ve always had a passion for teaching and staying involved within Indiana University so was excited for the opportunity to help shape our future health leaders.

What is the most helpful advice you’ve received?

I’ve been fortunate to have very strong mentors and coaching throughout my life and professional career so it’s really hard to narrow down one piece of advice that I believe is the most helpful. One thing I learned early on in my career though that has proven valuable is to seek out those strong mentors and coaches. Through your career it’s important to have those role models and confidants you can learn from, that will challenge you, and will continue to help you grow.

Do you have any advice for MSHM students who are about to become transformational healthcare leaders?

It has truly been a joy to watch our current MSHM leaders grow over the last 8 months that I’ve taught and I couldn’t be more proud for the group that we have. You all are a talented, smart, and hard-working group and I know you have a bright future ahead of you. I hope that you continue to move through your career with the same excitement and energy that you have today and know that the road won’t always be easy, but if you continue to show up and bring your best selves, you will continue to shine.