Introduction to Advancement Virtual Happy Hour
2022-01-18 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Denver) | Virtual
Do you want to demonstrate your commitment to your healthcare career?

The ACHENTX Advancement Committee is hosting a complimentary event for Chapter members to learn more about the pathway to achieving FACHE designation, becoming a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Join us for testimonials on the benefits of fellowship from a current fellow, the advantage of fellowship as a prospective leadership candidate to future employers, and the specific steps to achieve fellowship.

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The Great Resignation: Shortages & Best Practices
2022-02-01 17:30 - 19:00 | Virtual
With millions quitting their jobs and the healthcare industry being especially hard hit by this issue and all it’s ramifications, we have gathered together for you the following experts who are confronting these issues head on and finding ways to successfully navigate through these challenges.

Stacy Dorsey
Vice President & Chief Workforce Officer
Parkland Hospital
Irina Plumlee
Shareholder
Munsch Hardt
Courtney Rottman, J.D., M.P.S.A.
Chief of Staff
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Jacob Simon
Chief Operating Officer
The Medicus Firm
John P. Carter (Moderator)
Director of Advisory Services
Patient Physician Network
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Speakers’ Bios
John P. Carter has over a decade of healthcare recruiting, consulting, operations, and leadership experience. Having partnered with organizations across the nation, he has a broad background working with Health Systems, Accountable Care organizations (ACO), Hospitals, Physician Practices, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), Behavioral Health Groups, Managed Care Organizations, Indian Health Services (IHS), the Veterans Affairs (VA), Academic Medical Centers, Hospital Associations, and Independent Physician Associations (IPA).
In his current role, John serves as the Director of Advisory Services for the Patient Physician Network (PPN), an Independent Physician Association serving 600+ physicians and 200+ practices across the North Texas Market. In this role, John provides leadership and oversight to the Advisory Services Team supporting PPN’s new member recruitment, clinical integration, practice support operations, contract negotiations and management, and Value Based Care programs as well as credentialing, data compliance, claims resolution, payor relations, joint operating committees, education, and training. In addition, he currently serves as Vice Chair of the Membership & Networking Committee for the North Texas Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Mr. Carter is originally from Arkansas and a graduate of the University of Arkansas. He is also a former Army Field Artillery Officer with fourteen years of military service. His leadership experience, work ethic, and passion for service are what drive him as healthcare executive. He believes “life is a people business” and truly enjoys his work.

Stacy Dorsey currently serves as Senior Vice President of Workforce Strategy, and Chief Workforce Office for Parkland Health. Ms. Dorsey has over 20 years of Talent Acquisition and Human Resources experience with 15 years of professional expertise as a collaborative and approachable HR executive in developing, leading and aligning teams.

In her current role, she has been providing strategic planning and executive leadership for Parkland’s Talent Acquisition, Supplemental Staffing, Compensation, Workforce Planning, and Occupational Health Services. Prior to joining Parkland, Stacy served as Executive Vice President (EVP) of Human Resources for Vista College in Richardson, a division of Education Futures Group. In this role, Stacy was a strategic partner to the CEO and executive team members, designing and executing effective organizational and human capital strategies to drive business results.

Before her time with Vista College, Ms. Dorsey served in multiple leadership roles with Conifer Health, a subsidiary of Tenet Healthcare Corporation. As Vice President of HR Shared Services, Stacy was responsible for the strategic direction and senior leadership of the HR shared services, talent acquisition and payroll teams during a time of substantial company growth, delivering improved quality and efficiency in compliance with federal, state and client requirements across 45 states. Prior to that, Ms. Dorsey also served as Conifer’s Senior Director of Talent Acquisition and Tenet Healthcare Recruitment Manager.

Additionally, Stacy has recruitment, training and system analyst experience with Texas Health Resources, Ardent Health Services, Inc., Cook Children’s Healthcare System and Modis Professional Services.
Ms. Dorsey has a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies from Iowa State University.

Irina Plumlee’s immigration practice focuses on business and family immigration.
She represents her clients in a variety of immigration matters, including the following: international executive and managerial personnel transfers; E proceedings for international entrepreneurs; H-1B, TN and L-1 petition proceedings for foreign executives and managers, IT specialists, doctors and professional workers in major industries; and employment and family-based permanent immigration proceedings. She also has experience representing clients in matters concerning employers’ I-9 compliance and fairness in employment practices.
Irina previously served as a member of Munsch Hardt’s Management Committee.

As Chief of Staff, Courtney Rottman, J.D., M.P.S.A., is a key member of the President’s executive team, working closely with the President, the executives who report to the President, and the President’s Office staff to monitor, facilitate, and support the execution of the President’s goals and priorities for UT Southwestern Medical Center. She serves as a key adviser to the President; as a consultant to senior leaders, faculty, and staff on a wide range of issues; and as the President’s personal representative on various Medical Center task forces and groups. Ms. Rottman also is responsible for the Policy Office, which reviews and updates UT Southwestern campus-wide policies and makes them accessible through a centralized electronic Policy Library.
Ms. Rottman joined UT Southwestern in September 2020 from ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where she was Senior Director, Enterprise Operations and the Chief of Staff for the Chief Operations Officer. She served as an Enterprise Operations team adviser, representative, and liaison on behalf of the COO in multiyear strategic plan development and large-scale business operations improvement and transformation efforts. Ms. Rottman worked across the organization to build relationships, lead enterprise projects, generate and steward operations innovation efforts, help define and execute enterprise goals, and lead risk mitigation and revenue efforts. Previously, she served as the Chief of Staff to the Chief Development Officer of ALSAC.
Prior to joining ALSAC in 2015, Ms. Rottman served in leadership roles at global social innovators such as Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Travelocity.com, and Baylor Scott & White Health. Through these opportunities, she gained extensive experience building and transforming private and public sector organizations in areas such as fundraising operations, global strategic sourcing, business development, program and performance analysis, integrated marketing, and contract and grant management. A skilled negotiator, Ms. Rottman has led a variety of complex agreements, including the strategic sourcing division of the largest online travel agency in North America during a corporate merger.
Ms. Rottman is a dedicated professional committed to working for organizations that enrich the lives of others. She holds a Juris Doctorate from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law, a Master of Public Service and Administration from The Bush School of Government and Public Service, and bachelor degrees in International Studies and History from Texas A&M University. She is pursuing her doctorate in business administration at the International School of Management in Paris, France. Her research focus areas include global strategic planning, the workforce of the future, innovation management, and the role of artificial intelligence in the nonprofit sector to increase operating and fundraising capacity and efficiencies.

Jacob Simon serves as Chief Operating Officer for The Medicus Firm, one of the nation’s largest healthcare recruitment firms. Prior to this role, Jacob served The Medicus Firm in a variety of other roles for the past 8 years, most recently as Executive Vice President of Business Development. Mr. Simon’s passion is uniting individuals and teams towards a common goal. His experience allows him to work closely with management and internal recruiting staffs to evaluate and provide consultative insight beneficial for strategic planning and recruitment strategies. Mr. Simon brings an extensive background in the recruiting industry to The Medicus Firm. Prior to beginning his career in the physician recruiting industry, Jacob served for 4 years as the National Recruiting Coordinator for Northwestern State University football program and their recruitment of student-athletes.
Jacob is originally from Kansas and is a graduate of McPherson College where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry. He later received his Master’s in Management and Administration at Northwestern State University. He currently resides in San Antonio, TX with his wife Mari and their kids, Emmitt, Emilia and Noelle. In his free time, Jacob enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending sporting events, and competing in athletic events of various kinds.

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Interdependence of Public, Private and Federal Healthcare Delivery
2022-02-24 15:30 - 17:00 | Virtual
This virtual panel has been approved for 1.5 ACHE Face-to-Face Credits

The traditional boundaries between Public, Private and Federal Healthcare delivery have become more permeable as healthcare regulations and requirements have changed. The beneficiary population can no longer be considered as belonging to its system alone.
Patients seeks services outside healthcare systems for many reasons, including access, capacity, and cost. Traditionally, migration between healthcare systems would be discouraged through financial measures or by threat of disenrollment. Today healthcare systems rely on each other to provide services that they cannot provide for financial, geographical or accessibility reasons. The Veterans Administration and Department of Defense both rely on partnerships with public and private healthcare systems to provide care to Veterans, Service Members, and their dependents beyond the capability of the Federal system. Likewise, public and private healthcare systems enter into affiliation agreements with Federal sector healthcare systems for academic and research-based support.
Through this discussion, participants will gain an understanding of the complexities related to documentation of episodes of care, reimbursement for completed care, and information technology challenges; the interoperability and cooperation of Public, Private and Federal Healthcare Systems during natural or manmade disasters; and the future of Public, Private and Federal Healthcare Delivery as it relates to the continued homogenization of their respective patient populations.
Aaron Bujnowski, FACHE
Director, Integrated Delivery Network Leader
The Chartis Group
Jason Fisher
Executive Assistant to the Director
South Texas Veterans Health Care System
Eric D. Jacobsen
Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer
VA North Texas
George T. Roberts, Jr., FACHE (Moderator)
Chief Executive Officer
Northeast Texas Public Health District

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Speakers’ Bios:

Aaron Bujnowski is a Director with The Chartis Group and co-leader of the Private Equity (PE) practice area. Mr. Bujnowski’s healthcare career spans over 15 years. He focuses on developing innovative enterprise strategies that enable integrated delivery networks and their leaders to create lasting competitive advantage. He also helps PE firms to effectively make buy- or sell-side decisions and deliver increased value through their portfolio companies.
Prior to joining The Chartis Group, Mr. Bujnowski was the system Chief Strategy Officer at Texas Health Resources, where he spent nearly nine years. He was responsible for developing and implementing strategies across the entire enterprise, including acute, post-acute, ambulatory, physician, consumer, and value-based approaches. His experience also includes more than four years with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he served as a core member of BCG’s strategy and healthcare practices. He was also a founding member of BCG’s PE practice, spending time on Wallstreet working on deals with many of the country’s largest PE firms. Mr. Bujnowski previously held various leadership positions in new venture development and innovation at The Dow Chemical Company for more than nine years.
While at Chartis, Mr. Bujnowski has worked with large IDNs on major strategic efforts, including enterprise strategy development and implementation, service line strategy and structure, consumer strategy, and strategic and community partnership development. He has also helped accelerate the growth of the PE practice, working on buy-side due diligence efforts and sell-side efforts in the health provider space. Leveraging his previous in-house strategy experience, he has also worked on value-enabling efforts for PE portfolio companies, which have resulted in identifying significant sources of organic and inorganic growth and operational efficiencies for his clients.
Mr. Bujnowski holds a Master of Business Administration from The University of Texas at Austin, where he graduated with the highest honors. He also holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering with a biomedical emphasis from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, where he graduated with honors. In 2015, Mr. Bujnowski became a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).

Jason H. Fisher is the Executive Assistant to the Director at the South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS). In this role, Mr. Fisher reports to the Medical Center Director and has responsibility for Strategic Planning, VA-DoD Sharing Agreements, Joint Incentive Fund proposals, and numerous special projects.
Mr. Fisher received a Bachelor of Administration in Business Management from Texas A&M University in 1991, and a Master of Healthcare Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston – Clear Lake in 1994. He entered the VA as an administrative resident through the Graduate Healthcare Administration Training Program (GHATP) in Brooklyn, NY, and later served as the Executive Secretary of the GHATP Board for almost 10 years.
Mr. Fisher joined the STVHCS in 1995 as the Administrative Officer at the VA Outpatient Clinic in Corpus Christi. Following this assignment, Mr. Fisher served as Executive Assistant to the Director at the STVHCS from 1997 through 2006. In 2006 Mr. Fisher was appointed the Strategic Programs Manager of the STVHCS which has since evolved into his current role.
Mr. Fisher received an Honorable Discharge as a Captain from the U.S. Army Reserves in 2010, having served with the 228th Combat Support Hospital, the 5th Brigade/95th Division, and the 4th Brigade/100th Division.

Eric D. Jacobsen is the Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer at VA North Texas where he manages numerous administrative departments and sections.
Mr. Jacobsen began his career at VA in 1999 as a supervisory health system specialist and worked in a variety of leadership roles.
Mr. Jacobsen received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 1996 and completed a Master of Science in Health Care Administration at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas in 1999.
He is a graduate of VA’s Executive Career Field Training Program and is Board Certified in Healthcare Management and a Fellow in ACHE with experience in healthcare operations, public health initiatives/crisis management, quality and performance metrics, provider networks, financial management, strategic and tactical planning, and improving patient satisfaction.

George T. Roberts, Jr., has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Northeast Texas Public Health District since November 2006. The Northeast Texas Public Health District (NET Health) is a local Health Department established by the City of Tyler and Smith County. Services provided by NET Health include Community Outreach, Disease Surveillance, Environmental Health, Immunization, Tuberculosis Control, Public Health Emergency Preparedness, Regional Laboratory, Vital Statistics, and the WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Program. NET Health has started and participated in many community collaboratives including Fit City Tyler whose Mission is to make Tyler a Fit City “One Step, One Bite and One Health-Conscious Decision at a Time”. NET Health primarily serves Tyler and Smith County but also provides some services in 21 counties in East Texas. The WIC Program serves a 20-county area and Public Health Emergency Preparedness serves a 7-county region. Most recently, Mr. Roberts and his Team have been leading the Community response to the COVID 19 Pandemic and the COVID 19 Vaccination effort.
Mr. Roberts has over 40 years of health care experience, the majority of which was spent in hospital administration, having previously served at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler, and Henderson Memorial Hospital in Henderson, Texas. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX and his Master of Health Administration from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. He is Past President of the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) Board of Directors, and he also has served as President of the Texas Association of City and County Health Officials (TACCHO). He is the President of the Texas Health Institute Board of Directors, and he currently serves on the Board of the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce, Carter BloodCare, and the Piney Woods Regional Advisory Council (RAC) Area G. Mr. Roberts is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, and is active in a number of church, community, and statewide efforts. Mr. Roberts has been married to his wife Leslie for 34 years, and they have adult children – Claire and Travis.

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The Value of Developing and Implementing Alternative Care Models
2022-02-24 17:30 - 19:00 | Virtual
This virtual panel has been approved for 1.5 ACHE Face-to-Face Credits

Developing new delivery models that embrace alternative payment models goes beyond simply supplying patients with information at time of checkout or discharge. It includes a commitment to patient-centered care, providing clear and useful information to patients, helping patients establish goals and plans to live a healthier life, creating a team of clinicians and administrative staff with clearly understood roles and responsibilities, and using office systems to support followup and tracking of patients. Managing programs aimed at chronic illness and changing behavior are challenging and take time for everyone involved—providers, patients, and caregivers. Yet, it is often patients themselves who are called on to manage the broad range of factors that contribute to their health. Common sense suggests—and health care experts agree—that people with chronic care needs should receive support to help them manage their health as effectively as possible. Helping patients to make good choices and maintain healthy behaviors requires a collaborative relationship between health system leaders, community-based programs, clinical teams and patients. Learning how to incorporate these new models into a health system or practice can support patients in building the skills and confidence they need to lead healthier lives.

Melissa Campenni
Divisional Vice President of Network Innovation and Strategy
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
Richard Doane
Director
Premier
Roger N. Fowler, MD
Vice-President, Chief Medical Director of Quality, Performance and Innovation
CHRISTUS Health
William Scott Hurst, MBA, FACHE (Moderator)
President & CEO
Patient Physician Network
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Speakers’ Bios:

Melissa Campenni is the Divisional Vice President of Network Innovation and Strategy at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. She has been actively engaged in health care for over twenty years. She has proven experience in Network Innovation, Managed Care Contracting, Value Based Contracting, Provider Relations and Client/Account Management. Melissa has led successful Enterprise-wide teams through complex implementations of network builds, creations of Value Based Care programs and large client implementations. Melissa’s strategic business sense, as well as her sincerity and compassion, has resulted in the creation of strong meaningful relationships throughout the national health care community. Melissa is originally from Pt. Pleasant, NJ where she began her career at Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ. Melissa also served as the Sr. Director of Employer Solutions, National Network Strategy and Innovation for UnitedHealthcare. Melissa received her B.S. in Business Management from Dowling College/Long Island University, NY and her Master in Health Administration degree at the University of Texas at Tyler. She currently resides in Frisco, TX with her husband and their two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Richard Doane is a Director at Premier working as a part of the Strategic Collaboratives team. In this role, Richard has developed subject matter expertise related to all aspects of Medicare ACOs and other network-level total cost of care models (Next Generations ACO, Direct Contracting) including advocacy, development, operations, regulatory compliance, and performance improvement. He has led numerous strategy sessions, executive / board presentations, and detailed capabilities assessment to best position member ACOs for success in value-based care and payment.
Prior to joining the population health team Richard spent three years within the cost management division of Premier’s Performance Partners. There he managed many projects, from small labor benchmarking engagements to large operational transformation projects. He also served as a labor subject matter specialist for several projects. During this time, he also developed best practice methodologies and tools for completing labor centric projects.
Richard received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Clemson University with a minor in Business Administration. He also received a Master of Health Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina. Richard is a certified black belt in Lean/Six Sigma. He also received an individual Premier Values Award in 2014 and a Premier Team Values Award in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2021.

Roger N. Fowler, MD, is the Vice-President, Chief Medical Director of Quality, Performance and Innovation at CHRISTUS Health.
Roger began solo Family Medicine Practice in Kilgore, Texas, from October 1981 until November 1996. He provided full spectrum Family Medicine care, including ambulatory, inpatient, emergency department, obstetrics including deliveries and c-sections, minor surgery, nursing homes, and home visits. In 1996, he joined the newly formed Trinity Clinic, an employed physician group that had incorporated 1 year earlier and was part of the integrated Trinity Mother Frances Health System.
In November 2005, he moved his practice to Lindale, Texas, to open a new concept “health park” for TMF and the Trinity Clinic, practicing only ambulatory care in Family Medicine as well as Urgent Care. He ceased with direct patient care January 31, 2017, as he assumed a full-time administrative role with CHRISTUS Health.
While with the Trinity Clinic, he served many governance and clinical leadership roles including Trinity Clinic Board member for 9 years, serving the last 5 years as Chairman. He served on various committees including Finance, Customer Service and Quality. He provided medical leadership for the PCMH recognition for all of primary care in 2011. The Clinic achieved Level III PCMH recognition for all 120 primary care providers.
He served as Chief of Primary Care for 2 years from 2012-2014, until assuming full responsibility for Population Health for the Trinity Clinic.
He envisioned, launched and provided leadership for the department of Population Health for the Trinity Clinic in January 2015 until joining CHRISTUS Health in February 2017 as Chief Medical Director of Population Health and Health Plans, CMO for the CHRISTUS Health Quality Care Alliance (ACO) and CHRISTUS Quality Network (CIN).
Beginning in November of 2019, Roger also became involved with the CHRISTUS Health Plan (CHP) and assumed leadership for the Pharmacy and Quality Improvement departments for the CHP. Subsequently, his role expanded in May of 2021 when the Medical Management Department also came under his leadership.
Roger is married to Patty Fowler for 34 years. Patty is now a “crafter” after a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant. We have a blended family of 3 boys and 1 girl with 3 grandchildren. We love spending time with family. For recreation, Roger spends time in pursuit of fitness, especially running for the past 43 years, and golf.
We have been Blessed and acknowledge our Christian beliefs. We worship in the Episcopal Church at Church of the Apostles in Coppell, Texas.

William Scott Hurst, MBA, FACHE is currently the President & CEO of Patient Physician Network (PPN), one of the largest IPA’s in North Texas with over 600 physician members. In this role, he works with teams of dedicated physicians, staff and caregivers to advance independent medicine by driving clinical integration, value-based care initiatives, patient experience improvement and cost reductions in the provision of care. To date, these efforts have returned over $4 million in savings to its members in just seven years.
Scott is an accomplished leader with over 20+ years of experience in Physician Alignment, Contracting, Quality & Performance Improvement, Hospital & Clinical Operations, Provider Recruitment, Patient Experience and Value-Based Care Operations for several well-known systems in the DFW metroplex.
Previous to being recruited to PPN, Scott served as an Executive Director overseeing operations in Texas and Louisiana for naviHealth, an industry leader in value-based care operations for health systems and health plans servicing Medicare patients.
Over his career, Scott has been blessed to serve as a Project Leader at Methodist Health System; the Senior Director of Physician Networks at Children’s Health in Dallas; a Director of Physician Alignment at CHRISTUS Spohn Health System in Corpus Christi, TX and as a consultant for over 10 years to hospitals in the Midwest, Pacific Northwest and Alaska. In addition, Scott had the honor of serving as the President of the North Texas chapter of ACHE in 2020
Scott completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Drury University (1995 / 1997) in Springfield, MO while working in the Athletic Department in Sports Information & Event Management.
When he is not at work, Scott can be found hanging out with his fiance’ Erica who is a nurse at Texas Oncology, getting updates from his 18 year-old daughter who is in her freshman year at the Savannah College of Art & Design, listening to live music around the Metroplex or refereeing high school basketball for the North Texas Basketball Officials Association.

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Breakfast with the Assistant Vice President - Travis Gill. JD
2022-03-01 07:30 - 09:00 | UT Southwestern Pegasus Building, 3000 Pegasus Park Drive, #LP6.202, Dallas, Texas, 75247
Please join us for the next in our popular breakfast event series . . .

For this Breakfast event, we are being hosted by Travis Gill, JD, Assistant Vice President for Institutional Equity & Access at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

7:30-8am – Breakfast & Networking
8:30-9am – Presentation by Travis Gill

Travis Gill, J.D. is the Assistant Vice President for Institutional Equity & Access at UT Southwestern Medical Center. In this role, Travis provides leadership in promoting and furthering the University’s commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity for all members of its community.  As AVP, Travis has oversight of UT Southwestern’s Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, Title IX, and Diversity & Inclusion programs and efforts.

As a scholar, practitioner, and consultant in diversity, equity, and inclusion, Travis is dedicated to removing barriers and providing equitable opportunity through systemic change. In his role, Travis oversees the institution’s strategic approach to promoting a culture of inclusion and belonging through programming, training, consultation, investigation & resolution, collaboration with business resource groups, and outreach across the wider Dallas/Fort Worth community.

Prior to joining UTSW, Travis served as a labor and employment attorney at an international law firm where he provided legal guidance and helped establish a corporate policy to ensure a culture of non-discrimination and inclusion at several fortune 500 companies. Travis has also served as the Director of Institutional Equity & Access and Title IX Coordinator at Kansas State University and the Director of Investigations & Outreach in the Office of Institutional Equity at the University of Texas at Austin.

Travis proudly received his undergraduate degree (BBA) in Finance from the University of Oklahoma and his law degree (JD) from the University of Houston.

PLEASE NOTE: To keep our in-person events as safe as possible, the ACHE of North Texas Board of Directors is requiring all ACHENTX program attendees wear masks throughout the entire event, unless eating or drinking – and COVID-19 vaccinations are strongly encouraged.

A special thanks to Travis Gill and UT Southwestern for hosting us for this program!

ACHENTX New Horizons Event
2022-03-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Join us for our popular New Horizons event – being organized by our ACHENTX Student Council

The ACHENTX New Horizons event is a special two-for-one opportunity. By registering for this event, you will have the opportunity to 1) attend the virtual New Horizons event on March 12 and then after that, 2) meet one-on-one with a local Healthcare Human Resources Representative.
Event Agenda:

Introductions : 10 mins
Presentations: 90 mins
Building resume /Linkedin/ Social media development – Andrea Askins (30 min)
Career building/ Linkedin/ Social media development – Angela Vincent Michael (30 min)
Networking/ Linkedin/ Social media development – Lorie Thibodeaux (30 min)
Q&A Session : 20 mins

After registering for this event, please use the below google form link to submit your resume. Your resume will be used by a local Human Resources Representative who will be conducting a one-on-one Zoom call with you, to be scheduled after this event. Note: This separate discussion with the HR Rep will not be a job interview, but instead will be an opportunity for you to receive feedback on your resume and practice your interviewing skills – all with someone who reviews resumes and interviews candidates in the local healthcare community on a day-to-day basis.
Submit Resume Here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/192IdqkL7RKbpJ77R12zwYnB7G8QWk4Fj6oZFDlT9_h0YmYeyHU-ubZL4yA_Kib1j9vpjZaiY?usp=sharing
More details will be provided during the event about the above referenced post-event HR discussions, how those will be scheduled, what they will entail, etc.
New Horizons Event Presenters’ Bios:

Andrea Askins is a Lead Talent Acquisition Partner with over 20 years of experience in Talent Management. Andrea works alongside all levels of leadership to place qualified candidates. Ms. Askins believes that personal branding can set you apart from other candidates and enjoys teaching individuals how to fine-tune their job search. She has served as a career and resume coach as a consultant and for non-profit organizations.
Andrea has her a Bachelor’s degree with a concentration in Communication Studies and Business from Lamar University in Beaumont, TX. She will graduate in May from Texas A&M University in College Station with a Master’s degree in Human Resources Development. Andrea plans on attending Baylor University in the Fall of 2022 to focus on her doctorate in organizational leadership. Ms. Askins serves as the chair for the UTSW Hispanic–Latino Business Resource Group. In her spare time, Andrea enjoys working in her yard with her husband of seventeen years and fostering mini schnauzers and old English sheepdogs.

Angela Vincent Michael is a healthcare leader, coach and collaborator who is passionate about improving patient experience and key outcomes by engaging clinical and operational leaders on innovative process improvements. Her passion for healthcare improvement is cemented firmly in her experience as the advocate and care navigator for her mom (oncology) and daughter (prematurity). As a young millennial female healthcare leader, whose ethnicity and origin have ties to India, Nigeria, Canada, and America, Angela also believes in quietly and peacefully influencing an inclusive and equitable culture for all.
For over a decade, Angela has engaged healthcare cross-functional teams with a strong focus on clinical quality improvement, performance excellence, project management and clinical analytics. In her current role as System Director, Performance Improvement at Methodist Health System, she collaborates with leaders at all levels of the organization to innovate and advance clinical and operational performance. Angela holds a Master’s degree in Health Finance and Management from Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, and is an active member with the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) North Texas chapter.
Angela’s world revolves around her family, her husband, their 10 year old daughter, 7 year old son and two dogs, Spot and Snow! Her all-time favorite quote is by Dr. Nelson Mandela, “I never fail. I am either winning or learning”.

Lorie Thibodeaux, MHA, ITILv3, HACP, CPHQ is a Quality Improvement Leader who has demonstrated extensive experience in healthcare quality, research, process improvement, and program development. She joined Parkland during the Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) and led enterprise-wide projects, executive project meetings with board of managers, leadership, department heads, providers, and other clinicians to discuss strategic goals. Additionally, she worked on process improvements and successfully closed the CIA. Building a safety culture and teamwork centered community in a high-risk environment is no easy task. During this time, Lorie was instrumental on critical projects to the success and sustainability required through the journey towards building trust by eliminating fear, examining close calls and errors, and unsafe conditions. As a Senior Manager, Performance Improvement, Lorie demonstrates strong motivation and leadership to help drive our organization into being a safer place. She also has developed an Employee Resource Group for Women at Parkland Health & Hospital System.
Lorie holds an MHA from University of Missouri-Columbia, a Bachelor of Science from Spring Hill College, and holds certifications in Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITILv3), Health Accreditation Certification Program (HACP) and Certified in Professional Health Quality (CPHQ). She is also an alum of the Institute for Diversity Summer Enrichment Program (SEP).
Lorie has a strong passion for not only improving patient safety and quality of care, but also strongly supports initiatives around health equity. In Lorie’s free time, she enjoys making an impact in the Dallas-Fort Worth community. She is the Immediate Past- President (founding DFW Chapter President) for the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives (NALHE DFW). Lorie also sits on the Executive Board for the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives. She serves on the ACHE Diversity Committee and is the Founding Member of the Women Healthcare Executive Network (WHEN ACHENTX). She also is actively involved of the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE). She also serves on the Board of the Jewish Family Service. In addition, Lorie actively works with several charity organizations and enjoys mentoring others in her free time. Lorie is a native of New Orleans and is the first generation born in the United States on her mother’s side. Her mother emigrated from Panama City, Panamá.

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ACHENTX Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Course
2022-04-09 09:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
Due to the high volume of requests and for those who missed one of the earlier opportunities, ACHE of North Texas’ Student Council is once again partnering up with Leaning Towards Change, LLC to offer a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification course. The Yellow and Green Belt courses are healthcare specific, providing examples of real healthcare experiences. You will learn about lean six sigma and how to eliminate wastes, errors, and inefficiencies in healthcare environments, such as clinics or hospitals.
This will be a one-day Yellow Belt course, April 9, 2022, 9am-6pm (including breaks).
(Be sure to watch future announcements for a Green Belt Certification Course as well. Note: You will need your Yellow belt first to be able to register for the Green Belt session.)
What’s included:
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Course e-book
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification Exam
• Simulated Project
Course Instructor: Tanya Stinson
Virtual Platform: Zoom
Register Here

Hi there! My name is Tanya Stinson and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I have a Master’s degree in Healthcare Quality and Safety, a Master Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma, and 14 years’ experience in leading, coaching, and mentoring professionals in completing Lean Six Sigma, Quality, Compliance, Risk and Safety projects. I have a well-rounded and knowledgeable skill set, as I have worked in various industries, such as mining, utilities, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. I am passionate about helping others by sharing with them what I have learned and creating positive changes within any organization.
I have been working for Texas Health Resources since June 2017. Currently, I am a Supervisor of Data Governance Support for THR and before my recent promotion, I was a Performance Improvement Engineer/Coach. Since working with them, I have received several awards and accolades. Here are just a few of the recognitions I have received:
• 2020 ACHE of North Texas Mentor of the Year
• Trailblazer Award – Texas Health Arlington Memorial, 2018 for Blood Culture Contamination Reduction Project
• Quality Award (2) – Texas Health Fort Worth, 2019 for Neonatal Extubation Process Improvement Project and “Let’s Get Moving” Patient Ambulation Improvement Project
• Discoverer Award – Texas Health Resources, 2019 for ED Discharge Scheduling Improvement Project
• Transformer Award – Texas Health Resources, 2020 for Interventional Radiology Throughput Improvement Project
Outside of work, I am a wife and mother of 4 handsome young men, and I love fishing, camping, and racing just to name a few!
Thank you so much for reading, and I hope that you are as excited about the upcoming classes as I am! I look forward to meeting every one of you and growing the passion for PI!
Many blessings,
Tanya Stinson

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Panel Discussion on Human Trafficking
2022-04-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Patient Physician Network, 2701 West Plano Pkwy, Ste. 650, Plano, TX, 75075
Join us for this important conversation on Human Trafficking – and learn more about what can be done to better prevent it from happening.

ACHENTX is partnering with Reclaim611 and ACHENTX sponsor, Patient Physician Network to bring to you this special program. Please note, space is limited, so be sure to register early to reserve your seat.

Panelists include:

Carrie Grace has been serving victims of human trafficking since 2011. She has specialized in the area of trauma recovery and post trauma resiliency. She has developed programs and curriculums which are used in prevention, education and restoration services around the world.

Sarolyn Morgan is a LCSW-S (Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor with a BCD (Board-Certified Diplomat). She has been the Victim Assistance Specialist (VAS) for Homeland Security Investigations Immigration and Customs Enforcements (HSI-ICE) since October 2016. She has provided outreach and education to over 225 organizations exceeding 75,000 persons trained in Human Trafficking.

Candace Rich is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, owner of Healthcare Today, co-founder and Director of Operations at Reclaim611. When Candace was introduced to human trafficking and how healthcare and school systems disproportionally come in contact with these victims, she looked back at her own experiences and was overwhelmed by how much she had missed the red flags of many potential victims.

Carrie Schirato – In 2017, I co-founded an anti-human trafficking non-profit organization called Reclaim611, with two of my long-time friends and colleagues. As medical professionals we are passionate about helping our own profession learn how to recognize, respond, report and reclaim the lives of victims of human trafficking.

Carrie Wright is the Director of MDT Service at Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center. In this role, she supervises the coordination of child sex trafficking cases and high-risk youth identified within the MDT in Dallas County.

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ACHENTX 2nd Quarter Education Event
2022-04-28 15:00 - 19:00 | Medical City Las Colinas, 6800 North MacArthur Boulevard, Irving, TX, 75039
These two panels have been approved for 1.5 ACHE Face-to-Face Credits each
(3.0 if you attend both sessions)

Date: Thursday, April 28
Schedule:

3-3:30pm – Check-In & Networking
3:30-5pm – Panel 1: Understanding Implicit Bias and its impact on Healthcare Leadership
5-5:30pm – Dinner & Networking
5:30-7pm – Panel 2: Developing an Environment of Civility and Respect In Healthcare Organizations: Resources to Empower Healthcare Leaders to Identify, Intervene, and Prevent Workplace Bullying, Incivility and Disrespect
Location: Medical City Las Colinas, 6800 North MacArthur Boulevard, Irving, TX 75039

A special thanks to Medical City Las Colinas for hosting this event!!
Please note, Medical City Las Colinas requires all attendees wear a mask when not eating or drinking.

Panel 1: Understanding Implicit Bias and its impact on Healthcare Leadership
The communities for which healthcare organizations operate are rapidly diversifying. Not only do they provide care for a diverse community of patients and families, but their workforce is also growing more diverse. It is incumbent on healthcare organizations and their leaders to both understand and embrace the needs of diverse populations. Their ability to respond to the needs and preferences of a broader customer base will be critical to their financial and operational survival, but they first must understand what their implicit biases are to do that. The goal of the session is for leaders to understand and recognize internal biases both conscious and unconscious. This new program will focus on the healthcare leader’s personal recognition of internal bias and its impact on decisions in the organization. The impact of the healthcare leaders’ ability to recognize biases in areas such as employment and policy decision making will lead to increased diversity in individuals holding leadership positions and will help us better serve the communities we are in.
Panel 1 Panelists:
Reginald “Reggie” Carter, Managing Director, JENGA Capital Funds
Katie Bata Heeter, FACHE, Vice President Human Resources Strategic Business Services, Baylor Scott & White (Moderator)
Dresdene Flynn-White, FACHE, Managing Director, Acquired Leadership Solutions
Dr. DeLancey Johnson, DBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, sHRBP, Senior Vice President, Office of Talent Management at Parkland Hospital System in Dallas, Texas
Merredith Simpson, Director, Human Resources Methodist Charlton Medical Center
Panel 2: Developing an Environment of Civility and Respect In Healthcare Organizations: Resources to Empower Healthcare Leaders to Identify, Intervene, and Prevent Workplace Bullying, Incivility and Disrespect
The organizational culture of a healthcare organization plays a critically important role in shaping the work environment for its employees. Organizations with environments of civility and respect recruit the best and brightest people, exude high morale and high job satisfaction by their employees, and demonstrate high performing teamwork. Unfortunately, disrespect and incivility at work is rampant in many organizations, and it’s on the rise. Uncivil behaviors are characteristically rude and discourteous, displaying a lack of regard for others.
Panel 2 Panelists:
Dr. Jim Allard, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, VP and Chief Nursing Officer at Medical City Dallas; ACHENTX DE&I Committee Chair (Moderator)
Tina Bowers, Vice President, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer Children’s Health, Dallas Texas
Felicia Miller, MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CHHR, Executive VP and Chief Talent Officer, Parkland Health Dallas
Dr. Tamala Norris, Vice President Clinical Operations & Group Chief Nursing Officer United Surgical Partners International, Inc.

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Panel 1 Speakers’ Bios:

Reginald “Reggie” Carter is a Managing Director for JENGA Capital Funds an acquisition company that invests in lower and middle market companies, and its strategy is to partner with talented executives and entrepreneurs to build industry-leading companies. Companies and executives have chosen to partner with JENGA Capital Funds because of the deep industry experience, strong network of business relationships, and track record of success. JENGA Capital Funds seeks investments where the bulk of the value creation opportunity is derived from the growth of a scalable business model. Reggie leads the firm’s overall strategy, developing targeted investment themes, supervising and closing the transaction.
Reggie began his career at GE Capital in the Financial Management Program where he held various Finance roles within multiple GE businesses (GE Assurance, GE Mortgage Insurance, GE Corporate Technology and GE Real Estate). His healthcare career started at GE Healthcare in the Commercial Leadership Program. While at GE Healthcare, he held roles that included leading product and regional commercial teams. Reggie was GE Healthcare’s first Deal Architect on the Commercial Operations team focusing on deal pursuits of $10M- $100M in size. Prior to his leaving GE Healthcare, Reggie served as the Region Vice President and General Manager for Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma where he led all GE Healthcare segments: Diagnostic Imaging, Ultrasound, Life Care Solutions, Health Information Technology, Life Sciences and Service businesses. The scope of his responsibilities included leading the sales and service organization by building a culture of collaboration and growing the portfolio to $400M in sales revenue.
Reggie transitioned into biotechnology to build a commercial team within Biogen leading the West Division for the Alzheimer’s Account Liaison Team. He led a layered organization with responsibilities for aligning and driving the commercial strategy and execution for Biogen’s Alzheimer’s Business Unit. He partnered with cross-functional leaders (e.g., Marketing, Sales, Reimbursement, Patient Services and Medical) to deploy solutions that drive business opportunities while ensuring team alignment in the overall execution of strategy.
Reggie is from Plano, TX and attended Langston University where he obtained Bachelor of Science degrees in Finance and Business Management and is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Katie Bata Heeter is Vice President of Strategic Business Services at Baylor Scott & White Health, the largest not-for-profit health system in Texas. The integrated delivery network includes 49,000 employees, 52 hospitals, 7,500 affiliated physicians, more than 1,100 access points, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and one of the nation’s largest accountable care organizations, Baylor Scott & White Quality Alliance.
In her role, Bata Heeter oversees implementation of HR programs that support leaders in advancing the mission of Baylor Scott & White Health.
Prior to her current role, Bata Heeter served in multiple human resources leadership roles including vice president and regional executive director at Advocate Aurora Health and its predecessor, Advocate Health Care. She also previously served as vice president and chief human resource director at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital.
Bata Heeter received her bachelor’s degree in business from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in business management from Northern Illinois University.
Dresdene Flynn-White is no stranger to success as both a business owner and a strategic business partner in the corporate world. First as an administrator in higher education, then on to a fifteen-year healthcare career with Kaiser Permanente. Leaving a lucrative career in corporate human resources and consulting, she started on her five-year entrepreneurial journey as an executive and business coach, advising and supporting small business owners. Q2 2022 Page 6 advising and supporting small business owners. Dresdene returned to corporate human resources as Vice President for Human Resources at JPS in 2010. She assumed the role of the network’s first Diversity Officer in January 2012. In this capacity she was responsible for the execution of the Hospital District’s Diversity strategies relating to the provision of culturally competent care for patients, the education and retention of a diverse workforce and an expansion of engagement with M/WBE and HUB VENDORS. From 2018-2021 Dresdene served as Senior Director for Diversity Initiatives for North Texas Leaders and Executives Advocating Diversity (LEAD) an organization built partnerships with the region’s most influential employers and helped connect them with talented, experienced professionals seeking new career opportunities in organizations that value diversity and inclusion. Having retired the third time, Dresdene has returned to healthcare consulting by establishing a boutique consulting practice (Acquired Leadership Solutions) focused on diversity and strategic leadership development including executive coaching and training. Dresdene is a unique health care professional, having experienced both corporate operational and business ownership roles. She is a credentialed manager responsible for establishing, consolidating, and realigning critical business areas to enable the initiation of new systems, definition of new business processes and responses to litigation and regulatory compliance issues. Dresdene serves on several community boards including the Fort Worth Metropolitan YMCA, Health Babies, Healthy Moms, Healthy Communities (H3); is past president of the North Texas Chapter of American College of Healthcare Executives, and former Co-Chair of the Tarrant County Cancer Disparities Coalition. She is a current member of the board of Baylor Scott and White All Saints.
Dr. DeLancey Johnson is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SHRM-SCP, SPHR, sHRBP), and is an active member of American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) of North Texas. He holds a BA from Edward Waters College, an MBA from Syracuse University and a Doctorate in Business Management from Northcentral University in Scottsdale, Arizona. He serves as the 2022 Certification Director on the Board of Directors for the Mid-Cities Human Resource Association (MCHRA). He has over 20 years of HR experience working internationally, domestically in public and private sectors for-profit and non-profit organizations. Currently, Dr. Johnson is the Senior Vice President, Office of Talent Management at Parkland Hospital System in Dallas, Texas.

Merridth D. Simpson is the Director of Human Resources for Methodist Charlton Medical Center, part of the nonprofit Methodist Health System which employs nearly 10,000 staff throughout the Metroplex. Merridth oversees all aspects of Human Resources including policies and programs covering employment, compensation, benefits, performance management, employee relations, leadership development, recruiting and retention, and compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws. Merridth serves on the Methodist Health System Intentional Inclusion & Diversity (II&D) Council and represents the organization on the Best Southwest Workforce Development committee. Previously Merridth served as the Diversity and Inclusion Manager at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas where she led the strategic development and implementation of the Institution’s diversity and inclusion strategy, impacting 15,000 faculty and staff. Merridth ensured that diversity, equity and inclusion were essential components of the Institution’s core missions of research, education and patient care, and implemented the Institution’s first Business Resource Groups (BRGs). Prior to joining UT Southwestern, Merridth held leadership roles at Raytheon, an aerospace and defense contractor, in their Intelligence and Information Systems (IIS) business segment. She held positions spanning communications, human resources, and diversity. While at Raytheon Merridth handled workforce planning of nearly 3,000 scientists and technical professionals, and streamlined the business’ performance and development processes. She spearheaded community outreach efforts in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), grew the maturity of nine Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and steered multiple diversity councils. Merridth is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, Society for Diversity, Executive Women in Texas Government, and National Association of Health Services Executives. She serves on the Greater Dallas Advisory Board of the Texas Diversity Council, and previously served on the Board of Management for the Lakewest YMCA of Dallas. Merridth is a Certified Human Resources Management Professional (SHRM-CP), Certified Diversity Professional (CDP), Six Sigma Green Belt, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Relations and Business. Merridth resides in Midlothian, TX with her husband of 28 years and they have three grown children.
Panel 2 Speakers’ Bios:
Dr. Jim Allard is Vice President Nursing and Chief Nursing Officer at Medical City Children’s Hospital and Medical City Women’s Hospital – Dallas. His tenure has span 24 years in nursing. Jim’s interests include civility, diversity, equity and inclusion, shared governance, evidence-based practice, MAGNET and Just Culture principles. Jim earned a Doctorate of Nurse Practice at Texas Christian University. He holds a certification from ANCC as a Nurse Executive Advanced and is a member of ANA, TNA, AONL, TONL and ACHE. Jim gives back to the community through TNA, TONE and ACHE Committee work. His personal leadership vision is “To develop the leader in every nurse.”
With nearly 25 years of health care experience, Tina Bowers’ leadership career has been distinguished by a proven track record of comprehensive strategies and programs that generate effective leaders, improve culture, and promote inclusion and equity. Tina is currently responsible for developing and advancing the diversity and inclusion strategy at Children’s Health, one of the largest pediatric health systems in Texas. As a trusted advisor and collaborator of the organization’s CEO and operational leaders, she works to shape and sustain an inclusive workplace where employees and patients feel welcome, valued and respected – and importantly, where the workforce and policies reflect the patients, families and communities served. Many of her achievements represent groundbreaking, first-of-their-kind initiatives in the institution’s 108-year history, including its first-ever comprehensive Diversity & Inclusion strategy, cultural climate audit, annual D&I Impact Report, and the first-of-its kind Registered Apprenticeship model for Patient Care Technicians in the State of Texas. Prior to joining Children’s, Tina served in HR leadership roles at for-profit and not-for-profit health systems including Methodist Health System and Tenet Health. In addition to experience in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, she also has deep expertise and broad experience in numerous HR functional areas, including Talent Acquisition and Management, Organizational Development, Coaching, Learning/Training, and Leadership Development. Recently named one of the Top 100 Diversity Officers in the U.S. by the National Diversity Council and in 2019, nominated for the Outstanding D&I Professional award as part of the Dynamic Women of Color Champions of Change. Tina frequently serves as a host, speaker, panelist, and facilitator for high-profile D&I forums throughout North Texas and she is certified in Diversity Management in Healthcare, MBTI, Crucial Conversations, Emotional Intelligence, DDI and Crucial Accountability. Tina received her undergraduate degree from Chicago State University and holds an MBA from Southern Methodist University.
Felicia Miller, MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CHHR, is the EVP & CTO at Parkland Health & Hospital System. Felicia has more than 30 years of leadership experience in healthcare HR across both non-profit and for profit health systems, including more than 22 hospitals and approximately 18,000 employees. Prior to joining Parkland she served as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) for Tenet Healthcare Corporation’s Texas region. In that role she led the charge for comprehensive talent management in a heavily data-driven culture while fostering cross-functional working relationships with executive Bios/ PIC Contact # 2 Tuesday, March 1, 2022 4:25 PM Q2 2022 Page 9 heavily data-driven culture while fostering cross-functional working relationships with executive counterparts across divisions. Prior to her time at Tenet, Ms. Miller spent 19 years with Presbyterian Hospital Dallas (PHD) and Texas Health Resources. Her tenure with PHD included roles with increasing responsibility and seniority, having progressed from a career center coordinator to manager roles, senior HR generalist and director of HR. Felicia received a Master of Business Administration from LeTourneau University. She also has dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Health Information Management and Health Professions from Texas State University. Felicia’s professional certifications include Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR), SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) and Healthcare Human Resources (CHHR). She is also an active community member, involved in multiple business organizations and the recipient of numerous professional accolades.
Dr. Tamala Norris joined Tenet Healthcare and United Surgical Partners International in 2016 and serves as the Vice President of Clinical Operations and Group Chief Nursing Officer with oversight for USPI’s nursing operations, clinical practices, quality, and safety. She serves as an Editorial Board Member for the International Journal of Nursing Sciences and Clinical Practices, and as a board member for the Ambulatory Surgery Center Quality Collaborative. As a clinician, Tamala worked frontline in hospitals and was a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. After leaving the bedside she served as a hospital then system leader of Quality, Patient Safety, Risk Management, and Regulatory Operations. Tamala holds a bachelor’s in nursing from South University and a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration from Walden University.

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Cocktails with the Chiefs
2022-05-10 18:00 - 20:00 | Corgan, 401 North Houston Street, Dallas, TX, 75202
Our popular in-person Cocktails with the Chiefs event is back!

Space is limited this year so please be sure to register early!

This event always offers incredible networking opportunities and this year will feature the following special panelists, focusing on the behavioral and mental health issues facing our community:

Bonnie Cook
Executive Director & CEO
Mental Health America of Greater Dallas
Preston ‘Jay’ Frayser
Administrator
Texas Health Springwood Behavioral Health
Dr. Fuad Khan
Chief of Integrated Behavioral Health
Parkland Health
Carol Lucky
Chief Executive Officer
North Texas Behavioral Health Authority
Jean Scallon
Vice President Operations
Signature Healthcare Services

A special thank you to our sponsors and event hosts:
Aramark – hosting this event’s food & beverages
Corgan – hosting us in their beautiful offices in the West End, overlooking downtown Dallas.

Register Here

Speakers’ Bios:

Bonnie Cook is the Executive Director and CEO of Mental Health America of Greater Dallas. Bonnie received her master’s degree in Non-Profit Management from Fairleigh Dickenson University in New Jersey. Upon completing her degree, she moved to Kentucky where she was the Executive Director of Mental Health America of Kentucky and the Kentucky Psychiatric Medical Association. Bonnie has over 17 years’ experience working in the mental health sphere and serves on the Board of Directors of Mental Health America in Alexandria, Virginia. Currently, Bonnie is MBA candidate at Southern Methodist University, Cox School of Business, Dallas, Texas.
Her passion for mental health drives her energy towards fulfilling MHA’s mission of leading the community in improving mental health through advocacy and education. She has an undying devotion towards raising awareness and eradicating the stigma surrounding mental health. In her free time, Bonnie enjoys quilting, and Texas Rangers baseball.

Jay Frayser is the current Administrator and COO at Texas Health Resources – Harris Methodist Hospital HEB – Springwood facility and comes with extensive executive experience of providing quality healthcare /behavioral and psychiatric services
Jay has been a champion in healthcare industry with successful startups and expansion projects under his belt including Provo Canyon Behavioral hospital and Salt Lake Behavioral health. Overseeing DFW’s healthcare needs with his expertise and leadership he completed successful reopening of at Sundance Behavioral Healthcare in Dallas as Chief Executive Officer.
Prior to assuming his role as Administrator at THR-Springwood, he has also served as Director of Nursing at THR and multiple positions at PI-Acadia Healthcare in Tucson, AZ while actively involved in expansion of psychiatric hospitals and projects.

Carol Lucky, CEO of the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority, has been working in the mental health and substance use field for over 35 years. Key positions she has held include: CEO of Child and Family Guidance Center Dallas, Director of Mental Health Services for Dallas Metrocare, CEO of Austin Family House, Managed Care Officer for the Center for Health Care Services in San Antonio, and Chief of Community Services Reimbursement for TDMHMR (now part of Texas HHS). She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Southwestern University, and a Master’s Degree in Human Services Administration form St. Edwards University.

Dr. Fuad Khan is the current Chief of Integrated Behavioral Health at Parkland Health in Dallas, Texas. He comes from a family of psychiatrists and finished medical school in Pakistan before coming to Boston to train at Harvard Medical School where he completed his psychiatry residency and fellowship in psychodynamic psychotherapy. He returned to Pakistan and developed a psychiatric hospital system and a psychotherapy training program.
After a brief time living and working in New Zealand, he returned to the United States in 2009 to work at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and as a faculty member at Harvard Medical School. Then he moved to Texas to be the Chief of Psychiatry at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, Texas – one of the three largest County hospitals in United States, and helped shape their psychiatry services to become one of the best in the region. He remains affiliated with UT Southwestern Medical School as an Associate Professor of Psychiatry and continues to supervise residents there.
He joined Wentworth Douglass Hospital in November of 2017 and has been involved in several initiatives to improve mental health care delivery in the region. His work is focused on not only improving the psychiatric practice, but also to increase awareness, involve multiple disciplines in the medical field, and participate with the community to establish a mutually integrated and collaborative approach to mental health. He also has a Master of Business Administration degree in Health Care Administration from the University of Dallas in Texas and a lot of his work includes administrative responsibilities at the hospital system.

Jean Scallon, MA, FACHE is the Vice President of Operations for Texas/Massachusetts and Special Projects. Jean has over 30 years of Behavioral Health Care Experience including being a CEO and Vice-President. Jean has been a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives for over 10 years. Jean has been recognized for her leadership on several occasions, she is a seasoned operator with experience in all age groups as well as Trauma Informed Care, Telehealth, and Suicide Prevention.
Jean serves as a faculty member for the Zero Suicide Academy and travels US wide to train individuals on the Zero Suicide Principles. She currently mentors several individuals in the healthcare space and is a mentor for ACHE requests. Jean serves on several boards and including, most recently, AABH (Association for Ambulatory Behavioral Healthcare) and the Texas Hospital Association Member Solutions Board. Jean has previously sat on the boards of the following: State of Indiana Suicide Prevention Advisory Network, Indiana Hospital Association, Circle of Ivy, Women of Vision and Chair of the Indiana Hospital Associations Behavioral Health Council.
Jean recently served as an adjunct professor teaching in the undergraduate program in Healthcare Management and Policy at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN for over 7 years.
Jean lives in Bloomington, IN with her husband and three dogs. Her son also resides in Bloomington and attends Indiana University.

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After Hours Rangers Game - Networking Event
2022-05-13 19:00 - 22:00 | Globe Life Field, Globe Life Field 734 Stadium Drive, Arlington, TX, 76011
Rangers versus Boston Red Sox

Come out for a casual evening at the ballpark and enjoy a fantastic view of the game from the suite of our host, SBL Architecture, Inc., while the Rangers take on the Boston Red Sox.

Foods and beverages will be served.
The suite will be open to guests at 6:30 PM, and first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM.
SPACE IS VERY LIMITED AND AVAILABLE ON A FIRST COME/FIRST SERVED BASIS, SO REGISTER TODAY!!!

A huge thanks to SBL Architecture for their ongoing support of ACHENTX and for hosting this event for us!
SBL Architecture, Inc. is a healthcare architectural, interior design and planning/consulting firm located in Arlington, Texas. Since 1994, SBL has worked on thousands of projects — with extensive experience in new construction, expansion, master planning and rehabilitation of older healthcare facilities. Healthcare design is their focus and their passion.

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ACHENTX Networking Blitz
2022-05-17 17:30 - 20:00 | Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children – Frisco, 5700 Dallas Parkway, Frisco, TX, 75034
A tremendous networking opportunity for
new and more seasoned members alike!

This event is for all ACHE of North Texas members who want to become more involved and/or become more connected/networked with their fellow ACHENTX members.

The ACHE North Texas Membership & Networking Committee cordially invites you to the ACHE of North Texas chapter’s next Networking Blitz. This fun event will allow members to get to know one another in meaningful ways. There will be special fun breakout sessions and activities, where personal connections will be made. The intent of this program is to bring members together to get a real in depth view of ACHENTX, to enable you to meet some of the chapter’s leadership and other fellow ACHE members, and to help you map out how to best take advantage of the plethora of local and national benefits and opportunities available to you through ACHE. It’s a way to “let us get to know you” as well and become a part of your professional network.
We will start with informal networking between 5:30-6pm, and at 6pm, we will dive into the more structured portion of the evening.
Our guest speaker for the evening will be Ajith Pai FACHE, President, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne.
We are looking forward to meeting each of you and/or getting to know you better.
A light dinner will be offered.

Ajith Pai, PharmD, FACHE, has served as President of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne since 2018.
In the role of president, Ajith oversees day to day operations, works to advance physician engagement and promote effective employee, governance, and community relations. Ajith is responsible for ensuring the achievement of the hospital’s goals for patient safety, clinical and non-clinical quality, operational performance and patient, physician, and employee engagement.
Ajith received his Doctorate of Pharmacy (PharmD) from Texas Tech School of Pharmacy and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas at Dallas. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).
Ajith enjoys spending time with his family which includes his wife of nearly 15 years, Myriam, their 6 year-old daughter, Elyse, their 15 month-old son Nikhil, and the newest addition, 2 month-old Yvette. He’s an avid runner and has participated in more than 15 marathons throughout the country and remains involved in the community through memberships on various boards and committees. Ajith is a proud Board member of ACHE of North Texas, and continues to be a national committee member of ACHE’s Asian Healthcare Leaders Community.

Thanks to Texas Scottish Rite for hosting the venue for this evening!

Register Here

2022 ACHENTX's WHEN Women's Conference
2022-06-09 08:30 - 14:00 | Texas Woman’s University – Dallas, 5500 Southwestern Medical Avenue, Dallas, TX, 75235
This popular annual conference is offered by the ACHE of North Texas chapter’s Women’s Healthcare Executives’ Network.

Join us for ACHENTX’s WHEN (Women’s Healthcare Executives’ Network) Women’s Conference EmpowHER 2022! Network with fellow women healthcare leaders and participate in break-out sessions on topical issues. Register and attend two of the four break-out sessions. Networking Breakfast and Lunch will be served.

Date: Thursday, June 9
Time: 8:30am-2pm
Location: Texas Woman’s University
5500 Southwestern Medical Avenue
Dallas, TX 75235
Register Here
Schedule:
8:30-9:00 am – Registration & Breakfast
9:00-9:15 am – Kickoff
9:30- 10:30 am – Breakout Session 1
10:30 – 10:45 am– Break
10:45 – 11:45 am – Breakout Session 2
11:45 -12:45 pm – Network Break & Lunch
12:45-1:45 pm – Keynote Address
1:45-2:00 pm – Closing Comments

Break Out Session Topics and Speakers:
• Why Self Care Isn’t Selfish
Lisa Vernon, MSW
SEL-Dynamic Mindfulness Trainer
Charmaine Christianson, MHSM, MBA
System Director, Clinic Services Baylor Scott & White Health

• Navigating Your Financial Future
Susan Marvin, CFP®
CRPC Financial Advisor, Certified Financial Planner(tm) Practitioner

• Executive Presence: Own the Room
Lenetra King, MSHA, FACHE, Founder, Watch Me EXCEL™

• Zoom Ahead: Leveraging our new Virtual Reality

Kathi Cox, MBA, COO, Ambulatory & Virtual Channel, Texas Health

Keynote Address: “Betting on Women: The Power of an Entrepreneurial Spirit”
Join us as Dina Hawidi shares her story: Dream so big that it seems impossible, then make it possible to help us forge forward not just as leaders, but collectively as women.
Dina Hawidi, featured on Shaping DFW and Voyage Dallas is a Fort Worth native. She has drawn more than 122,000 followers and 3.5 million likes on TikTok with videos showcasing her ornate wedding dresses and sparkling, beaded evening gowns. A Jordanian-American fashion designer, she is the founder of the Dina Hawidi bridal boutique in Arlington. She specializes in highly customizable gowns and caters especially to hijabi brides who want to alter them to be more modest. This young entrepreneur empowered herself to fulfill her dreams and is changing the fashion world one gown at a time.
This conference will take place on Thursday, June 9 at Texas Woman’s University – Dallas. Free parking is available in the garage adjacent to the main TWU entrance. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us as WHENNTX@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you!

A special thank you to TWU and Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP and Leaning Towards Change, LLC for hosting this event!

Register Here

Multi-Chapter Education Event
2022-06-24 08:30 - 16:30 | Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Plano, 1100 Allied Drive, Plano, TX, 75093
Approved for up to 6.0 ACHE Face-to-Face Credits

Once again ACHE of North Texas, the East Texas ACHE Forum and the Texas Midwest Healthcare Executives are joining forces to offer our members great educational content and a tremendous cross-chapter networking opportunity.
Special thanks to Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital for hosting their venue and Aramark for hosting the food & beverages for this event!
Date: Friday, June 24
Time: 8:30am-4:30pm
Location: Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Plano
1100 Allied Drive
Plano, TX 75093
Register Here
8:30-9am: Registration & Networking
9-10:30am: Panel 1: Improving the Health Status of Your Community
Panelists:
Vidya Ayyr, CHW; Director, Community Social Impact; Parkland Health & Hospital System
Kris Bolom, JD; Director of Behavioral Health Initiatives; My Health My Resources of Tarrant County
Danelle Parker, RN, BSN; Director of Community Health Improvement for Collin and Denton/Wise Counties; Texas Health Resources
Timothy Wilson; Senior Vice President, Population Health Management at P3 Health Partners
10:30-10:45am: Break
10:45am-12:15pm: Panel 2: Gender Equity and Intersectionality
Panelists:
Guy Cayo, FACHE; Chief Executive Officer; UT Health Pittsburg Chief
Bailey Farris RN, BSN, CEN; ER nurse; Texas Heath HEB
Suzanne Beauvoir Jackson, FACHE (Moderator); Vice President of Urgent Care Services; HCA Healthcare
Dawn Johnston, MBA, MSN, CFRN, LP; Administrative Director of Nursing and Clinical Services; CHRISTUS Flight For Life, Northeast Texas
Ajith Pai, Pharm.D., FACHE, President; Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne
12:15-1:15pm: Lunch
1:15-2:45pm: Panel 3: The Value of Developing and Implementing Alternate Care Models
Panelists:
Dawn Johnston, MBA, MSN, CFRN, LP (Moderator); Administrative Director of Nursing and Clinical Services; CHRISTUS Flight For Life, Northeast Texas
Mark S. Schnitzer, MD, CPHQ, CHCQM-PHYADV, FACS, FACHE; Surgeon, Educator, Physician Advisor, Medical Director, and Consultant
Juan Soto, FACHE; VP of Alternate Delivery; SCP Health
Michael Talley, FACHE; VP Clinical Ops; CHRISTUS Health
2:45-3pm: Break
3-4:30pm: Panel 4: Medical Staff Relations
Panelists:
Donna Bowers (Moderator); Regional Director for the Cardiovascular and Oncology Services Lines; UT Health East Texas Health System
Vicki L. Briggs, FACHE; Chief Executive Officer; UT Health Tyler, UT Health North Campus-Tyler, UT Health East Texas Rehabilitation Hospital & Services, UT Health East Texas LTAC
Madhura Chandak Bajaj, FACHE, MSPT, RHIA, CLSSBB; Vice President, Provider Documentation & Education; Envision Health
Dr. Suman Sinha; Physician; CHRISTUS Health
Speakers Bios
Panel 1: Improving the Health Status of Your Community

Vidya Ayyr leads high-impact interventions to address the social determinants of health, with a commitment to health equity and improving the lives and livelihoods of disadvantaged, marginalized, and vulnerable populations.
As the Director of Social Impact, she provides strategic oversight to Parkland’s community outreach investments, promotes innovation in data analytics, and mobilizes a team of Community Health Workers to drive an integrated approach to population health management. Prior to this role, Vidya was a part of External Affairs at Parkland where she developed public-private sector partnerships to support diverse, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
Ms. Ayyr holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from University of Texas at Dallas and earned her Master of Public Health degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center, School of Public Health, in 2011.
Vidya serves on the national EPIC (EMR) Brain Trust, the Community Leadership Forum with the Federal Reserve Board in Washington, DC and is a Presidential Scholar with the George W. Bush, William J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson Foundations. Her work on social impact collaboration has been recognized by the National Root Cause Coalition, by the Institute for Patient and Family-Centered Care (IPFCC), and by American Essential Hospitals (AEH) for its merit as an innovative design framework.

Kris Bolom, J.D. is Director of Behavioral Health Initiatives at My Health My Resources of Tarrant County and has 8 years of public healthcare experience for behavioral and physical health organizations in Tarrant County. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Psychology from the University of Tulsa and his Juris Doctorate from Marquette University.

Danelle Parker is an RN, BSN and got her start at Parkland Health Systems in the Neonatal ICU. She moved to Texas Health Resources and started at the Plano Hospital in 2000 as a Community Education Manager and has been with the THR system for over 21 years, and is currently a Director of Community Health Improvement over the Collin, and Denton/Wise regions. In 2019, Texas Health began a new initiative called Texas Health Community Impact. This is where THR gets outside and upstream of the hospital walls to study why and what is sending people to our hospitals. “Your zip code should not make a bigger impact on your health than your genetic code.”

As Senior Vice President, Population Health Management at P3 Health Partners (P3), Timothy Wilson leads the continuous improvement efforts to help providers deliver the correct care our patients deserve, while maintaining affordability and driving down administrative costs. He believes that early intervention is key to delivering quality care to every patient, no matter the age.
Timothy, a 15-year health care veteran, has a proven record of analyzing and solving quality problems and strategically improving processes, including claims operations; systems configuration; provider services; vendor delegations; medical claims reviews; and audit and recovery.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Image Management and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Media Studies, both from the University of Texas at Arlington. Timothy is a member of American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) of North Texas, and sits on the P3 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. While with UnitedHealth Group, he earned a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
In his spare time, Timothy enjoys spending time with his family and friends, as well as reading and exploring new cuisines.

Panel 2: Embracing a Dialogue about Gender Equity and Intersectionality
Guy B. Cayo has 15 years of healthcare experience with expertise in hospital operations, strategic planning & execution, contract management, business development & physician relations, and human capital management. He has served his community by leading improvement in health, quality of life, and through volunteerism and philanthropy.
In 2021, Guy joined the UT Health East Texas region of hospitals as UT Health Pittsburg Chief Executive Officer. UT Health Pittsburg is a 25 beds critical access hospital (5 star CMS, level four trauma, level three stroke support) located in Pittsburg, TX. The campus is also home to a rural health/specialty clinic.
Guy is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He previously served as Chair of ACHE Community & Philanthropy Committee and Co-Chair of Network & Relations for ACHE South East Texas Chapter. He has one son, Cayden A. Scott. Guy has several hobbies including scuba diving, archery, swimming, and hiking. In addition, he believes he is nothing without God’s grace and favor on his life.

Bailey Farris is a Certified Emergency Nurse with 10 years of patient care experience from both nursing and paramedicine. With a diverse background in emergency care, patient advocacy and lived experience, Bailey is now working from both bedside and academic perspectives to expand equitable emergency care access for LGBTQIA+ patients. As a vocal member of the Diversity Action Committee within the hospital environment, as a growing researcher within Emergency Nursing and as an MSN-Ed. candidate, Bailey is a rising voice in both patient care and nursing practice.

Suzanne Beauvoir Jackson, FACHE, is motivated by developing and executing strategies, leading and transforming organizations as well as scaling and managing enterprise wide operations, Suzanne is a seasoned multi service line healthcare executive with a proven track record of creating collaborative and integrated work systems.
As a result of her authentic action oriented leadership approach, Suzanne has successfully held progressive leadership roles including Chief Executive Officer of both specialty and general acute care hospitals, Chief Operating Officer, Associate Administrator, and Healthcare Consultant. Currently she is HCA Healthcare’s Vice President of Urgent Care Services; the leading hospital owned urgent care operator with over 200 urgent care clinics across 19 markets and 12 states.
Suzanne played a pivotal role in the organization’s national growth agenda increasing from 71 urgent care clinics to over 200 clinics, in addition to leading the organization in earning national quality and patient safety accreditation through the Urgent Care Association.
Additional accolades consist of past Gubernatorial Appointment to the Commonwealth of Virginia Governor’s Council for Women, ACHE District 2’s Regent At Large, Board Member for the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) Institute for Diversity & Health Equity and a member of the AHA’s Equity of Care Awards Committee. Currently, Suzanne is the Chair of ACHE’s Programs, Products, and Services Committee, a Board Member of the North Texas Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, a Board Member of the Urgent Care Association Foundation and is serving on/establishing the inaugural Urgent Care Association Commission on Diversity.
Suzanne earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace from the University of South Florida – Muma College of Business, is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), and holds a Master’s degree in Health Services Administration from the University of Michigan and Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois. – Champaign.

Dawn Johnston has been in her Director role for CHRISTUS Flight For Life since October of 2018. With helicopter outposts at Mt. Pleasant, Wills Point, Palestine and Longview, Dawn provides clinical leadership for an amazing team of nurses and paramedics that provide critical care to the most seriously ill and injured patients in Northeast Texas while rapidly transporting them to definitive care. Dawn’s focus on organizational excellence enabled the well-respected agency to attain industry accreditation for the first time in 2021. Dawn served as Education Chair for the East Texas Chapter of ACHE in 2021 and became a Board member in 2022. She received her BSN from Western Michigan University and MSN in Nursing Leadership and Administration from Capella University. She also obtained her BA in Communications/Journalism from Truman State University, and MBA from California Coast University.
Previously, Dawn was Project Coordinator for Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan managing hospital-wide nursing communications, completing Magnet projects, and contributing to a number of Quality Improvement projects on multi-disciplinary teams. As a member of the Trauma Research Committee, Dawn also contributed to the requirements for meeting the hospital’s Level I Trauma designation. Dawn has a broad inpatient critical care background and was also a full-time flight nurse for West Michigan Air Care for over a decade. During this time, Dawn also became Air Care’s Marketing Coordinator, managing most aspects of the organization’s public relations in Southwest Michigan, in addition to providing education for the flight crew. She has been teaching since she became a nurse, first American Heart Association courses and then many critical care subjects. Dawn has provided public education through the media on community health initiatives and was instrumental in garnering support for the introduction of a legislative bill to curb dangerous methamphetamine labs in Michigan.
Dawn’s background includes firefighting, National Ski Patrol and community health education as a Crisis Pregnancy Coordinator for the Salvation Army. Serving as a “Big Sister” for many years, Dawn was also honored as Mentor of the Year for Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Battle Creek, Michigan in 2008. Dawn’s hobbies include writing and she has several publishing credits, including Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America and the International Medical Corps Training Manual, a resource for war-torn areas of the world, in which she was the Associate Editor. In addition, she has written and edited the company newsletter almost everywhere she has worked.
Dawn has been married to her husband Neal for 29 years, and they have one adult son – Harrison. She and her husband are members of Marvin United Methodist Church. Dawn resides in the Tyler area and enjoys running, traveling, writing and spending time with family, friends and neighbors. She is involved in Tyler’s Sunrise Rotary Club and Women in Tyler, which hosts an annual luncheon honoring influential women from the Tyler area.

Ajith Pai, Pharm.D., FACHE, became president of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne in September 2018. Before joining Texas Health Cleburne, he was the professional and support services officer at Texas Health Kaufman.
Pai was born at Texas Health HEB and later began his career there in 1999 as a certified pharmacy technician. In 2011, he became the director of pharmacy at Texas Health Kaufman, where he oversaw the day-to-day operations and championed safe, quality-driven patient care through the implementation of best practices and improved clinical monitoring.
He received his Doctorate of Pharmacy from Texas Tech School of Pharmacy and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Texas at Dallas. He is also a graduate of Texas Health’s Talent Acceleration Program.
Pai is involved in his community through memberships on various committees including the Chamber of Commerce, Leadership North Texas, ACHE North Texas, and the ACHE Asian Healthcare Leaders Forum.
In his free time, Pai enjoys spending time and traveling with his wife Myriam, and their daughter, Elyse. He’s also an avid runner and has participated in more than 15 marathons across the country.

Panel 3: The Value of Developing and Implementing Alternate Care Models

Dawn Johnston has been in her Director role for CHRISTUS Flight For Life since October of 2018. With helicopter outposts at Mt. Pleasant, Wills Point, Palestine and Longview, Dawn provides clinical leadership for an amazing team of nurses and paramedics that provide critical care to the most seriously ill and injured patients in Northeast Texas while rapidly transporting them to definitive care. Dawn’s focus on organizational excellence enabled the well-respected agency to attain industry accreditation for the first time in 2021. Dawn served as Education Chair for the East Texas Chapter of ACHE in 2021 and became a Board member in 2022. She received her BSN from Western Michigan University and MSN in Nursing Leadership and Administration from Capella University. She also obtained her BA in Communications/Journalism from Truman State University, and MBA from California Coast University.
Previously, Dawn was Project Coordinator for Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan managing hospital-wide nursing communications, completing Magnet projects, and contributing to a number of Quality Improvement projects on multi-disciplinary teams. As a member of the Trauma Research Committee, Dawn also contributed to the requirements for meeting the hospital’s Level I Trauma designation. Dawn has a broad inpatient critical care background and was also a full-time flight nurse for West Michigan Air Care for over a decade. During this time, Dawn also became Air Care’s Marketing Coordinator, managing most aspects of the organization’s public relations in Southwest Michigan, in addition to providing education for the flight crew. She has been teaching since she became a nurse, first American Heart Association courses and then many critical care subjects. Dawn has provided public education through the media on community health initiatives and was instrumental in garnering support for the introduction of a legislative bill to curb dangerous methamphetamine labs in Michigan.
Dawn’s background includes firefighting, National Ski Patrol and community health education as a Crisis Pregnancy Coordinator for the Salvation Army. Serving as a “Big Sister” for many years, Dawn was also honored as Mentor of the Year for Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Battle Creek, Michigan in 2008. Dawn’s hobbies include writing and she has several publishing credits, including Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America and the International Medical Corps Training Manual, a resource for war-torn areas of the world, in which she was the Associate Editor. In addition, she has written and edited the company newsletter almost everywhere she has worked.
Dawn has been married to her husband Neal for 29 years, and they have one adult son – Harrison. She and her husband are members of Marvin United Methodist Church. Dawn resides in the Tyler area and enjoys running, traveling, writing and spending time with family, friends and neighbors. She is involved in Tyler’s Sunrise Rotary Club and Women in Tyler, which hosts an annual luncheon honoring influential women from the Tyler area.

Dr. Mark Schnitzer is an experienced Surgeon, Educator, Physician Advisor, Medical Director, and Consultant.
An interest in processes and mathematics led him to pursue an unlikely course of pre-medical study: electrical engineering. It was during his Ph.D. studies that he applied to medical school and completed his MSEE and MD concurrently. He completed his clinical training in neurological surgery and a fellowship in neurosciences critical care at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. His final year at Johns Hopkins was in the role of Assistant Chief of Service.
After fifteen years in solo, private neurosurgical practice and medical staff governance roles, he was recruited to Hawaii as the sole, full-time neurosurgeon for Kaiser Permanente with the mandate to set the groundwork for a completely internalized program. That experience led to his invitation to serve as the inaugural medical director of neurosciences and an ambitious project to unify the neurosciences programs across the government hospitals in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Once this unification was well underway, the program was handed off to the Cleveland Clinic. Subsequently, he served as the inaugural CMO for a start-up telemedicine company in Dubai and as an adjunct associate professor in a graduate program for healthcare administration.
He returned to the USA after four years in the Middle East and took on the role of physician advisor for SSM Health. Initially accountable for one hospital, he was elevated to a regional, multi-hospital role where he was accountable for insurance denial management including education of clinicians in evidence-based medicine and responsible stewardship as well as holding numerous roles in quality improvement projects.
Most recently, he has taken on the role of medical director for a large accountable care organization based in Dallas, TX.
Dr. Schnitzer is board certified in healthcare quality and management by the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians with added qualification as a Physician Advisor. He is a certified professional in healthcare quality by the National Association for Healthcare Quality and is certified by the American Society for Quality as a Six Sigma Black Belt. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Dr. Schnitzer has provided a number of invited presentations in the areas of healthcare informatics, patient safety, and responsible stewardship and he serves as an examiner for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award.
Dr. Schnitzer considers himself an interface professional, like most clinicians who have transitioned into healthcare leadership roles. He maintains a state of constant inquiry and curiosity with the ever-present thought, “There is something I do not know, the knowing of which could change everything.”

Juan Soto currently serves as Vice President of Alternative Delivery for SCP Health, a physician-led company of clinical and operational experts. Juan has over fifteen years of healthcare consulting experience and has been a valued team member at SCP Health since July 2021.
In his current role, Mr. Soto oversees SCP Health’s Clinical Staffing and Advancement Solutions for partners that deliver care outside of the four walls of the hospital. Having consulted on several thousand projects across the healthcare spectrum, Mr. Soto uses his expertise to work with clients across a broad range of issues, from provider compensation to medical staff planning and process improvement. Mr. Soto has consulted with multiple healthcare organizations throughout the country regarding provider needs assessments, search strategies, demographic and healthcare market trends, compensation, contracts, retention, physician-hospital relations, compliance, and numerous other related issues.
Mr. Soto applies his healthcare experience to effectively assist his clients in achieving their strategic initiatives, without compromising the overall mission of the organization. He also keeps his clients apprised of the most recent industry trends.
Mr. Soto resides in Atlanta, GA with his wife Sarah and two children. He attended the State University of New York at Albany and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Michael Talley is the Vice President for Clinical Operations & Virtual Care for the CHRISTUS Health enterprise, an international health system headquartered in Irving, Texas. Mr. Talley started his career in healthcare as an intensive care Respiratory Therapist at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, his hometown. His administrative career got its inception at Mayo Clinic where he spent 10 years leading hospital operations, provider relations, and business development. During Mr. Talley’s time in executive leadership he’s built a reputation for driving clinical innovation, strategic operations, and system integration.

Panel 4: Medical Staff Relations

Donna Bowers is the Regional Director for the Cardiovascular and Oncology Services Lines at UT Health East Texas Health System. She joined UT Health East Texas in June of 2020 as the executive responsible for both services lines. With a focus on person-centered care and quality improvement, she provides strategic direction to the health care system and establishes a cohesive organizational and governance structure that supports the UT Health East Texas care continuum. In addition, she provides oversight for clinical activities and programs; ensures the ﬁnancial viability of oncology and cardiovascular initiatives; and works to establish collaborative relationships among departments, physicians, medical groups, business partners and the community.
In her previous role with SCL Health System, she served for over five years as Vice President of Oncology and Cardiovascular Services in Colorado and Montana. Before joining SCL Health, she served as Senior Vice President of Clinical Service Lines with McKesson Specialty Health, where she greatly expanded hospital business, developed the oncology service line and strategy, and built a Proton Therapy Center, among a list of accomplishments. While at Baylor Health Care System for over 30 years, she held several leadership positions, leaving as the Chief Operating Oﬃcer of Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center and Vice President of Oncology.
Donna holds a Juris Doctorate from Texas A&M Law School, and a bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management from Texas Woman’s University. She is a Licensed Attorney in the State of Texas, and a Registered Health Information Administrator. In addition, she is certified in Healthcare Privacy by the American Health Information Management Association, and is a Certified Mediator through the Dallas Dispute Mediation Services and Texas A&M Law School.

Vicki Briggs, MBA, FACHE, is an experienced healthcare executive with over 30 years of
C-Suite experience in hospital and healthcare system administration in the not-for-profit and for-profit healthcare sectors. Currently she is serving as the Chief Executive Officer of UT Health Tyler, UT Health North Campus Tyler, UT Heath East Texas Rehabilitation Hospital and Services and UT Health East Texas LTAC.
Throughout her career, Ms. Briggs has had responsibility for 26 hospitals ranging from small rural, critical access, community, and specialty to large tertiary with teaching programs. She has held the positions of Division CEO, Market CEO, System COO, Hospital CEO, and Hospital CFO. She has worked with national healthcare systems including HCA, Ascension Health and currently Ardent Health Services.
While Ms. Briggs has broad experience in healthcare her most notable areas of expertise and results include organizational culture, employee engagement, physician alignment, women’s healthcare, compliance, clinically integrated systems of care, and operational excellence including LEAN.
Briggs, an American College of Healthcare Executives Fellow (FACHE), earned her B.S in Accounting from Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, Louisiana, where she was recognized as a top 50 graduate during the 50th anniversary celebration. She completed her MBA at Samford University, Birmingham, Alabama. She was named the Brock School of Business alumni of the year in 2013.
She has a demonstrated her commitment to the communities where she has worked and lived through her involvement with a number of not-for-profit organizations including the American Heart Association, United Way, Salvation Army, Girl Scouts, March of Dimes, Red Cross, and Rotary. Nationally she served on and chaired the Board of the National Perinatal Information Center was a member of the Regional Policy Board of the American Hospital Association and the Maternal Child Section. She is currently serves on the Boards of the Southwest Affiliate of the American Heart Association North East Texas Girl Scouts.
Ms. Briggs has recently to East Texas in March of 2018 when the joint venture between University of Texas and Ardent was formed to create UT Health East Texas. Her previous experience in Texas was as CEO of Longview Regional Medical Center from 1998 to 2005. While in Texas she served on the Board and Executive Committee of the Texas Hospital Association and received the American Hospital Most Valuable Political Action Player Award.

Madhura Chandak Bajaj’s life motto is “The grass is greener where you water it.” At Envision Healthcare, she leads strategy development and execution for the provider documentation and education function of the Medical Group.
Madhura is a data and results-driven professional with extensive clinical and business operations experience. She is passionate about service excellence, continuous quality improvement, clinical and technology integration. Prior to joining Envision she held various leadership roles in health systems, most recently serving as the Executive Director of Clinical Integration with JPS Health Network in Fort Worth, Texas.
Madhura’s graduate degrees are in Physical Therapy and Health Services Administration. She is a Fellow with the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Madhura actively participates in the community by volunteering and serving in advisory roles. Born and raised in India, she pursues world travel and soulful music. She lives in the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex with her spouse and eight-year-old twin boys.
A fun fact about her – “Will travel for good food!”

Born in Lansing, Michigan, Dr. Suman Sinha earned a bachelor’s in biochemistry from the University of California – San Diego, a master’s in business from the University of Phoenix, a master’s in molecular biology from San Diego State University and his medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine. Dr. Sinha is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary medicine and critical care medicine.
Dr. Sinha is married with two daughters. He enjoys spending time with his family, playing sports, reading and music.

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ACHENTX Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Course
2022-07-12 18:00 - 2022-07-14 22:15 | Virtual
Due to the high volume of requests and for those who missed one of the earlier opportunities, ACHE of North Texas’ Student Council is once again partnering up with Leaning Towards Change, LLC to offer a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification course. The Yellow and Green Belt courses are healthcare specific, providing examples of real healthcare experiences. You will learn about lean six sigma and how to eliminate wastes, errors, and inefficiencies in healthcare environments, such as clinics or hospitals.
This Yellow Belt course will occur over two days, July 12 & 14, 2022 – both days between 6pm-10:15pm.
(Be sure to watch future announcements for a Green Belt Certification Course as well. Note: You will need your Yellow belt first to be able to register for the Green Belt session.)
What’s included:
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Course e-book
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification Exam
• Simulated Project
Course Instructor: Tanya Stinson
Virtual Platform: Zoom

Register Here

Hi there! My name is Tanya Stinson and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I have a Master’s degree in Healthcare Quality and Safety, a Master Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma, and 14 years’ experience in leading, coaching, and mentoring professionals in completing Lean Six Sigma, Quality, Compliance, Risk and Safety projects. I have a well-rounded and knowledgeable skill set, as I have worked in various industries, such as mining, utilities, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. I am passionate about helping others by sharing with them what I have learned and creating positive changes within any organization.
I have been working for Texas Health Resources since June 2017. Currently, I am a Supervisor of Data Governance Support for THR and before my recent promotion, I was a Performance Improvement Engineer/Coach. Since working with them, I have received several awards and accolades. Here are just a few of the recognitions I have received:
• 2020 ACHE of North Texas Mentor of the Year
• Trailblazer Award – Texas Health Arlington Memorial, 2018 for Blood Culture Contamination Reduction Project
• Quality Award (2) – Texas Health Fort Worth, 2019 for Neonatal Extubation Process Improvement Project and “Let’s Get Moving” Patient Ambulation Improvement Project
• Discoverer Award – Texas Health Resources, 2019 for ED Discharge Scheduling Improvement Project
• Transformer Award – Texas Health Resources, 2020 for Interventional Radiology Throughput Improvement Project
Outside of work, I am a wife and mother of 4 handsome young men, and I love fishing, camping, and racing just to name a few!
Thank you so much for reading, and I hope that you are as excited about the upcoming classes as I am! I look forward to meeting every one of you and growing the passion for PI!
Many blessings,
Tanya Stinson

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After Hours Rangers Game - Networking Event
2022-07-12 19:00 - 22:00 | Globe Life Field, Globe Life Field 734 Stadium Drive, Arlington, TX, 76011
Rangers versus Oakland Athletics

Date: Tuesday, July 12
Time: 7:05-10pm
Location: Globe Life Field
734 Stadium Drive
Arlington, TX 76011
Register Here

Come out for a casual evening at the ballpark and enjoy a fantastic view of the game from the suite of our host, SBL Architecture, Inc., while the Rangers take on the Oakland Athletics.
Foods and beverages will be served.
The suite will be open to guests at 6:30 PM, and first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM.
SPACE IS VERY LIMITED AND AVAILABLE ON A FIRST COME/FIRST SERVED BASIS, SO REGISTER TODAY!!!

A big thanks to SBL Architecture for their ongoing support of ACHENTX and for hosting this event for us!

SBL Architecture, Inc. is a healthcare architectural, interior design and planning/consulting firm located in Arlington, Texas. Since 1994, SBL has worked on thousands of projects — with extensive experience in new construction, expansion, master planning and rehabilitation of older healthcare facilities. Healthcare design is their focus and their passion.

Community Event: Faith in Action
2022-07-28 09:00 - 12:00 | Second Life Resource Center, 310 N. Walton St., Dallas, TX, 75266
Join ACHENTX for this volunteer event, a great way to give back!

This ACHENTX Community Event will be focused on supporting Faith in Action. We will be packing boxes to go to Ukraine and other parts of the world where they do not have easy access to medical support.

Faith in Action is one of the four primary areas of strategic and philanthropic focus for Baylor Scott & White Health. The system started Faith in Action Initiatives (FIAI) to maximize its impact locally and worldwide by providing employees spiritual development, volunteer opportunities and prioritizing the wide array of partnership/support opportunities in order to invest system resources wisely, avoid waste and duplication of efforts
Faith in Action coordinates the disaster relief efforts of Baylor Scott & White Health. Their local office gathers physical, medical resources as well as money to address disasters anywhere in the world. In the past, we have responded to disasters in Japan, India, Pakistan, Philippines and most recently Ukraine. Locally, we have reached out to New England; West, Texas; Colorado; Oklahoma; Missouri; and Arkansas.

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” — Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr.

PLEASE NOTE: For liability reasons, Faith in Action requires participants for this event to be a minimum of 18 years of age.
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What To Do When the Government Comes Calling
2022-08-10 12:00 - 13:00 | TX
For this virtual event, Tony Box and Jenny Givens, Partners at Gray Reed, will be sharing their expertise for what to do when the government comes to your door.
The healthcare industry, particularly physicians, labs and pharmacies, has been in the cross hairs of the federal government for the past several years. All too often physicians, office managers and other professionals react out of fear and ignorance when the FBI or other law enforcement agencies raid their offices, an agent serves them a subpoena or an agent contacts them by phone. Their immediate actions, which include signing documents, giving statements, handing over files or even communicating internally via text message, can have long-term consequences that change the course and outcome of the case. This presentation by Gray Reed Partners Tony Box, a former FBI agent, and Jenny Givens, a healthcare attorney Certified in Healthcare Compliance by the Compliance Certification Board, will educate healthcare professionals on what to do and what not to do if a government agent shows up, as well as how to implement policies and training programs so staff, board members and other employees are prepared in the event of a raid or government investigation.

Tony Box represents businesses and high-net-worth individuals in all types of civil and criminal tax controversies, white-collar defense cases, regulatory investigations and enforcement actions, and compliance matters focused on preventing government inquiries and minimizing business disruptions. He protects U.S. and international clients spanning several industries, including healthcare, technology, energy, real estate, construction, manufacturing and many more.
Before joining Gray Reed, Tony developed a diverse skill set while serving in a number of public and private sector positions. Most recently, he served as a government trial lawyer and tax coordinator responsible for leading federal tax investigations and prosecutions in the Eastern District of Missouri, as well as other high-profile cases involving white-collar crime, identity theft, illegal guns, drugs and violent crimes.
In addition, Tony previously served as an investigator and prosecutor in the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office where he led the conviction integrity unit and handled many types of investigations involving violent crime, police misconduct and civil rights matters. Tony is also a licensed CPA and spent three years at a Big Four accounting firm overseeing multi-million-dollar financial audits and investigations in the U.S. and abroad.
Tony has an extensive background in federal law enforcement as well. He served as an FBI special agent for nearly a decade, initially as a financial crime investigator handling a broad range of white-collar criminal investigations, and later as a computer forensics examiner directing all FBI media examinations in the Eastern District of Missouri.
Tony’s leadership skills and appreciation for collaboration were honed while serving on active duty in the Army as a tank commander and later as a JAG officer in Iraq. He also served as a senior civilian advisor in Afghanistan. Tony is a graduate of Army Airborne, Air Assault, Armor & JAG basic courses, as well as the JAG advanced course.

Healthcare providers trust Jenny Givens to help them navigate the numerous regulatory frameworks impacting their businesses and to guide them through a variety of operational, privacy and corporate matters. She works with a wide range of providers with operations primarily in Texas but also in many states across the country, including hospitals, physician entities, ambulatory surgery centers, pharmacies, laboratories, neuromonitoring facilities plus many more. Jenny is Board Certified in Health Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and Certified in Healthcare Compliance by the Compliance Certification Board.
Jenny is the go-to advisor for healthcare providers that need strategic guidance on how regulatory compliance interacts with their everyday operations and long-term business planning. She has substantial experience in developing proactive policies and corrective action plans concerning several issues, including fraud and abuse, the Stark Law, the Anti-Kickback Statute, HIPAA, EMTALA, licensure and certification, patient overflow and billing and reimbursement. Jenny also helps clients with a variety of transactional and corporate matters, ranging from employment contracts and coverage agreements to management services contracts and entity formation.
Before joining the firm, Jenny held in-house positions at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and City of Hope National Medical Center in Pasadena, California, where she handled a variety of transactional and compliance matters. Prior to entering law school, Jenny served as an assistant administrator for a community hospital in Los Angeles where she worked with medical staff committees, participated in all executive team committees and was responsible for strategic planning, service quality, licensing and accreditation activities and day-to-day operations of the hospital’s ancillary services.
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A special thanks to Jenny, Tony and Gray Reed for offering to provide us their wisdom on this important topic
and all their support of ACHENTX!

Axe Throwing After Hours Networking Event
2022-08-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Lone Star Axe Throwing, 506 East Division Street, #Suite 120, Arlington, TX, 76011
Come throw some axes and enjoy networking with your ACHE friends and peers!
Lone Star Axe Throwing is an immersive axe throwing experience that promises unlimited Texas-sized fun!
No prior skill is needed; coaches will be by your side to guide you and ensure an unforgettable axe throwing experience! Being there with your ACHE colleagues will add an extra special layer of networking and comradery!
Food from the Cartel Taco Bar will be included: tacos, chips, salsa, and chicken quesadillas (vegetarian alternatives will be provided) – and there will be a cash bar available as well.
Register Here

ACHENTX 3rd Quarter Education Event
2022-08-25 15:00 - 19:00 | Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth, 1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, Fort Worth, TX, 76104
These two panels have been approved for 1.5 ACHE Face-to-Face Credits each (3.0 if you attend both sessions)

3-3:30pm – Check-In & Networking
3:30-5pm – Panel 1: Sustainable Strategies to Support Resiliency and Professional Well-being for Healthcare Professionals
5-5:30pm – Dinner & Networking
5:30-7pm – Panel 2: RN & Clinical Staff Retention & Turnover

A special thanks to Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth for hosting this event!!

Panel 1: Sustainable Strategies to Support Resiliency and Professional Well-being for Healthcare Professionals
Adverse patient events have been attributed to healthcare staff who have experienced difficulty sleeping, reduced job satisfaction, impaired behavior and anxiety. These attributes contribute to more serious consequences such as burnout, depression, post-traumatic disorder and suicidal ideation. The suicide rate for physicians is higher than that for any other profession, in part because of the stress of medical school, risk for malpractice, sleep deprivation and challenges with work/life balance. Healthcare leaders often struggle with finding long-term solutions to address an important but personal issue for their staff and organization. During this panel, participants will learn sustainable strategies and approaches that will address well-being and resiliency for healthcare professionals in today’s healthcare environment. Even when leaders recognize this as a problem, they are often presented with confusing information or get-better-quick solutions that bring no lasting change and can sometimes increase cynicism among employees. During this panel, participants will learn the importance of sustaining well-being for healthcare professionals in today’s health care environment.

Panel 1 Panelists:
Christi Nguyen DNP, RN, FACHE, NEA-BC; ACNO of Nurse Excellence; UT Southwestern Medical Center (Moderator)
Elaine Beardsley MN ACCNS-P CPEN; Clinical Resiliency Specialist Program Manager; Children’s Health
Dr. Thomas Glenn Ledbetter; Chief Medical Officer; Baylor Scott & White Health DFW Central Region and BSWH Waxahachie
Glenda Mutinda, PhD, MFT; Director of Interprofessional Well-Being; JPS Health Network
Mihir Patel, MD, MBA, FACP, CPE; Chief Medical Officer, Monarch Region; Sound Physicians

Panel 2: RN & Clinical Staff Retention & Turnover
With an aging population, baby boomers retiring, millennials taking over the work force, and reimbursements being more tied to patient satisfaction and administrative duties, it is no surprise that turnover is at an all-time high. It is imperative for hospitals and health care systems to understand the impact of turnover as well as how to increase retention through engagement, professional development and mentorship.
Panel 2 Panelists:
Traci Lawler-Shortt, DNP; Client Services Vice President/Clinical Operations Specialist/ Lead Nurse Practitioner; SCP Health (Moderator)
Katie Bata Heeter; Senior VP; HR Strategic Business Services; Baylor Scott & White Health
Shonna Bracco, DNP; Chief Nursing Officer, Texas Health Resources
Kelly Martin; Vice President of Human Resources; Texas Health Resources

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Panel 1 Speakers’ Bios:
Dr. Christi Nguyen has been a nurse for 27 years and nurse leader for 17 years. She recently joined UT Southwestern Medical Center as the Associate Chief Nursing Officer, Nursing Excellence. She is also a Clinical Assistant Professor with the University of Texas at Arlington’s MSN Nursing Administration Online Program and Student Advisor in the DNP Program. She earned both her Bachelor and Masters of Science in Nursing and Healthcare Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1994 and 2004, respectively. She completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Texas Christian University in 2016. Dr. Nguyen is certified as a Nurse Executive, Advanced and a Fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives (ACHE).
Dr. Nguyen has worked in multiple areas of nursing, including oncology, home health, hospice, case management and as a wound, ostomy and continence nurse.
Dr. Nguyen is a member of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, Texas Organization for Nursing Leaders, North Central Organization for Nursing Leadership, and ACHE. She is currently the President of the North Central Organization for Nursing Leadership and a Board member with Texas Organization for Nursing Leadership and the DFW Great 100 Nurses.
She was recognized as a DFW Great 100 Nurse in 2013, Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas Hospital’s “Excellence in Nursing – Transformational Leadership” in 2015, D Magazine’s “Excellence in Nursing Awards – Nurses in Leadership Roles” in 2016 and 2019, and a JPS Excellence Award Winner in 2021.

Elaine Beardsley is committed to support health care staff to be their best while doing the difficult work they do. She is in the role of Clinical Resilience Specialist at Children’s Health in Dallas. Her background is a Clinical Nurse Specialist and spent many years at Seattle Children’s in the Emergency Department. She is in her third year of an Industrial and Organizational Psychology PhD program with her research interests being organizational factors that mediate emotional labor within critical care. The focus of her work at Children’s Health is twofold: help individuals connect to their own resilience factors thereby processing stress to support replenishment, and identifying and mitigating system factors that promote cumulative stress. Elaine has done many presentations locally and nationally. In her spare time, she loves being with her family and pets and spending time outdoors.

Thomas Ledbetter, MD currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Waxahachie, Texas; Sr VP CMO DFW Central Region, and is a board certified internist, practicing medicine for more than 35 years in Waxahachie. During his work as an internist, he recognized the growing divide between the practice of medicine and patient care. As a result he began redesigning how his office operated in an effort to remove inefficiency in hopes to preserve face time a physician had with their patients. In 2014, he was appointed Chief of Clinical Efficiency for Health Texas Provider Network, an affiliate of Baylor Scott & White. In 2015, Dr. Ledbetter co-authored an editorial for the Mayo Clinic Proceedings titled, “The Engaged Physician,” highlighting the growing epidemic of physician burnout. He recognized that a systematic approach was needed to improve the health and wellness of physicians, advance practice providers, and front line nurses. Since 2018, he has chaired the Baylor Scott & White’s Wellbeing in Medicine workgroup which is a multi-disciplinary leadership team of physicians, advance practice providers, clinical psychologist, pastoral care, and front nurses focusing on culture, workflow efficiency, and resiliency.
Dr. Ledbetter earned his doctorate in medicine from the Louisiana State University School of Medicine, graduating with honors. He did his internal medicine internship and residency at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Ledbetter is a fellow of the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is a graduate of University of Texas Dallas with a Masters in Medical Management.
His clinical interests have centered chronic disease management, leveraging nutrition, exercise and cognitive therapy to improve outcomes.

Glenda Mutinda, PhD, serves as the Director of Interprofessional Well-being at JPS Health Network. Dr. Mutinda received two Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Iowa in Psychology and African American Studies, a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Houston – Clear Lake, and holds a doctoral degree in Medical Family Therapy from East Caroline University. She also completed advanced fellowship training in integrated behavioral medicine and residency education at Saint Mary’s Family Medicine Residency Program. Her current position at JPS allows her direct access to the residents/fellows, oversight of all well-being initiatives, and she holds an integral position in the organization’s overarching Caring for the Caregiver task force. Her interests include well-being of medical trainees and healthcare workers, diversity and health equity, and integrated behavioral medicine.

Mihir Patel earned his medical degree from NHL Medical College/Gujarat University in India and completed his training in Internal Medicine at St. Mary’s Hospital, Yale School of Medicine, CT. Patel completed his MBA in Health Care Management from UT Dallas Naveen Jindal School of management with high honors. He is a board-certified internal medicine and Utilization management, has a leadership fellowship in Hospital Medicine, and green belt certification in Lean/Six sigma. In 2014, Mihir joined Sound Physicians as a Hospitalist Physician at Shreveport, LA. Since joining he has served in various clinical and administrative capacities. During his 8 years at Sound, he remains interested and had a significant contribution in Leadership development, Growth, Physician engagement, Value-based care, and innovation-based performance improvement in various hospital based service lines.
Most recently, he served as an Chief Medical Officer of Monarch Regio, with primary serving area in 11 different states in Southeastern US. In his role, Mihir has responsibilities for running 80 plus unique programs with focus on providing inpatient services in hospital setting. He leads the group of >750 Hospital based physicians to drive quality inpatient outcomes and fully responsible for managing P&L, operations, contracting and relationships with various health systems.
Mihir resides in Dallas, TX area with his wife and 2 children. In his free time, he loves spending time traveling with his family.

Panel 2 Speakers’ Bios:

Traci Shortt, a native of Fort Worth, TX brings 21 years of experience in nursing, advanced practice nursing, project management, contract management, and change facilitation to her role with SCP-Health. In her Client Services Vice President role, Traci facilitates engagement with stakeholders to optimize contracts financially, operationally, and culturally. As a Clinical Operations Specialist and Nurse Practitioner she is responsible for special projects, evaluation of contracts, operational assessment and clinical practice. In this role, she ensures clients receive facility specific analysis of their processes, staffing models, and practice guidelines. She works to ensure efficiency, efficacy, and safety in the delivery of patient care.
She completed a doctoral project on Waveform Capnography Use in Moderate Sedation and IV Analgesia. She has worked with ANCC in developing a national emergency nurse practitioner board certification and is active in nurse practitioner lobbying and legislation. Another area of expertise is the prehospital and transport environments. She has taught classes nationally and internationally on this topic and is working on an infrastructure project currently in Nigeria. Traci was recognized as one of Baylor Health Care Systems top directors for clinical and operational performance. Traci also has worked with the U.S. Army in developing and delivering a critical care field medicine course for their Special Forces medical personnel, which was utilized in Iraq, and Afghanistan resulting in decreased field mortality numbers.
She formerly served as a Director of Emergency and Critical Care Services at Baylor Health System. While there, she was able to develop Left Without Treatment Plans, Door to Provider Time reduction plans, Ventilator Acquired Pneumonia Practice Protocols and Central Line and Sepsis bundles in their clinical transformation, Traci received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice Degree from Chatham University. She also holds a Masters of Business Administration from Brenau University in Gainesville, GA and an undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University. Traci is certified as an Adult and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner clinically and also as a Six Sigma Blackbelt operationally. Traci is based out of the Houston, TX office.

Katie Bata Heeter is Vice President of Strategic Business Services at Baylor Scott & White Health, the largest not-for-profit health system in Texas. The integrated delivery network includes 49,000 employees, 52 hospitals, 7,500 affiliated physicians, more than 1,100 access points, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute and one of the national’s largest accountable care organizations, Baylor Scott & White Quality Alliance.
In her role, Bata Heeter oversees implementation of HR programs that support system leaders in advancing the mission of Baylor Scott & White Health.
Prior to her current role, Bata Heeter served in multiple human resources leadership roles including vice president and regional executive director at Advocate Aurora Health and its predecessor, Advocate Health Care. She also previously served as vice president and chief human resource director at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital.
Bata Heeter received her bachelor’s degree in business from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in business management from North Illinois University.

Dr. Shonna Bracco has been a Registered Nurse since 1996. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Texas Christian University and is board certified as a Nurse Executive Advanced. Dr. Bracco currently serves as the Chief Nursing Officer for Texas Health Arlington Memorial since September 2019. She is passionate about creating healthy work environments for healthcare workers to include reducing incivility, workplace violence and improving self-care and kindness in healthcare. Dr. Bracco serves the community by being a board member for Arlington Chamber Women’s Alliance, Texas Christian University Nursing Professional Advisory Board, and Texas Health Surgery Center Arlington board.

Kelly Martin, Vice President of Human Resources Operations, is a 20-year veteran of Texas Health Resources. She spent six years as the Entity Human Resources Officer at Texas Health Plano. During her tenure there, she’s focused on increased employee retention as well as top decile employee engagement results.
Prior to that she worked as a Human Resources Manager and served in several employee relations roles where she worked closely with employees and others in Human Resources. Kelly’s also been involved with various system projects, such as the design and deployment of the employee Grievance Program.
She is certified in Mediation and Managing Workplace conflict as well as a certified professional in Human Resources.
Kelly has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of North Texas.
Outside of work she enjoys spending her time with her husband of 19 years, Mark, and their 13-year-old son, Brady. Their entire family are huge baseball fans and split their time between watching her son play select baseball and cheering on the Texas Rangers.

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ACHE of North Texas will adhere to CDC COVID-19 guidelines for in-person gatherings. Monitoring the CDC’s COVID-19 By County risk level tracking, ACHENTX events/meetings will observe the following guidelines. (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html)

2022 Patient Safety Summit
2022-09-08 10:00 - 12:00, 2022-09-15 10:00 - 12:00, 2022-09-22 10:00 - 12:00, 2022-09-29 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Once again, ACHENTX is thrilled to be partnering with the DFWHC Foundation to offer you their annual Summit on patient safety. Topics will include Workplace Violence, Technology for Safety, Behavioral Health, Safety Stories & more.

4 Part Virtual Series
Thursdays in September
10am-12pm

Dates: September 8, 15, 22 & 29

Breakfast with the Vice President & COO - Patrick Brown, FACHE
2022-09-15 07:30 - 09:00 | Methodist Charlton Medical Center 3500 West Wheatland Road Dallas, TX 75237, 3500 West Wheatland Road, Dallas, Texas, 75237
Please join us for the next in our popular breakfast event series . . .

Patrick Brown, FACHE is the Vice President/Chief Operating Officer at Methodist Charlton Medical Center in Dallas, TX. He has more than 15 years of healthcare leadership experience, serving in operations, human resources, supply chain, strategic planning, and business development across a number of hospitals in Arizona, Georgia, and Texas. He previously served as the Vice President/Chief Operating Officer at Methodist Mansfield for 3 years and also served as the Chief Operations Officer and Professional and Support Services Officer at Texas Health Resources Allen. Prior to working with Methodist Health System and Texas Health Resources, Patrick served as a Chief Strategy Officer with Tenet Healthcare in their Phoenix market. He has a bachelor’s degree in business management from Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, FL and a MBA from Mercer University in Macon, GA. Patrick serves as a Board Member of ACHENTX , serves as the President of the National Association of Health Service Executives (DFW Chapter), and is board certified in healthcare management by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE).

Date: Tuesday, July 26
Time: 7:30-9am
Location: Methodist Charlton Medical Center
3500 West Wheatland Road
Dallas, TX 75237
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After Hours Rangers Game - Networking Event
2022-09-21 19:00 - 22:00 | Globe Life Field, Globe Life Field 734 Stadium Drive, Arlington, TX, 76011
Texas Rangers versus Los Angeles Angels

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Join us for a casual evening at the ballpark and enjoy a fantastic view of the game from the suite of our host, SBL Architecture, Inc., while the Rangers take on the Los Angeles Angels.
Foods and beverages will be served.
The suite will be open to guests at 6:30 PM, and first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM.
SPACE IS VERY LIMITED AND AVAILABLE ON A FIRST COME/FIRST SERVED BASIS, SO REGISTER TODAY!!!
NOTE: Please note, with the recent increases in COVID cases throughout the metroplex, the ACHENTX Board is requiring all attendees wear masks at all ACHENTX events for the time being. Please be sure to bring your mask with you.
A big thanks to SBL Architecture for their ongoing support of ACHENTX and for hosting this event for us!

SBL Architecture, Inc. is a healthcare architectural, interior design and planning/consulting firm located in Arlington, Texas. Since 1994, SBL has worked on thousands of projects — with extensive experience in new construction, expansion, master planning and rehabilitation of older healthcare facilities. Healthcare design is their focus and their passion.

Introduction to ACHE Fellowship Webinar
2022-09-27 18:00 - 19:00 | Virtual
Demonstrate your commitment to your healthcare career by becoming an ACHE Fellow!

The ACHENTX Advancement Committee is hosting a complimentary event for Chapter members to learn more about the pathway to achieving an FACHE designation, becoming a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Join us to learn about the benefits of fellowship, the advantages of fellowship as a prospective leadership candidate to future employers, and the specific steps needed to achieve fellowship.

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Channels for Lifelong Learning for Healthcare Executives
2022-09-29 17:30 - 19:30 | Neeley School of Business, 2900 Lubbock, Fort Worth, TX, 76109
Join us to hear various voices from throughout the industry, learning about different channels available to help you learn, network & grow.

This event will feature presentations by the below healthcare executives, sharing their perspectives and information about the various organizations for which they volunteer and represent. These different organizations all offer a plethora of opportunities to help you advance in your healthcare careers, helping you continually develop both personally and professionally.

Tentative Agenda:
5:30-6:00 – Happy Hour and Networking
6:00-6:30 – Opening Panel: Professional Organization Representatives
6:30-7:15 – Keynote Speaker
7:15-7:30 – Speaker Q and A, Closing

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Opening Panelists:
Asian Healthcare Leaders’ Community of North Texas (AHLCNTX)
Angela Vincent Michael
System Director of Performance Improvement, Methodist Health System
AHLCNTX Chair

Healthcare Financial Management Association
Tammy Walsh
CEO/Founder, Paramount Healthcare Solutions

Healthcare Information and Management System Society
Nayan Patel
Director of Healthcare Strategy, Neudesic

Medical Group Management Association
Demetris McDowell
Practice Administrator, CAN Community Health

National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE)
Joyce Tapley
CEO, Foremost Family Health Centers

National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives (NALHE)
Rolando Perez
Scheduling Capacity Analyst I, UT Southwestern Medical Center
Co-chair of Mentorship Committee at NALHE

Women’s Healthcare Executives’ Network (WHEN)
Deepthi Michael
Manager, Virtual Care Center, Texas Health Resources
WHEN Vice Chair

Keynote Speaker:
Dustin Anthamatten
Vice President of Operations
Methodist Health System
President, ACHE of North Texas

A special thanks to Texas Christian University for hosting this event!

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Health Law Update & Fallout from the Vanderbilt Nurse Conviction
2022-10-04 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual
We are thrilled to be partnering with the Southeast Texas ACHE Chapter to offer you this virtual event.
Approved for 1.5 ACHE Face-to-Face Credits
Date: October 4
Time: 12-1:30pm
Presenter: Dawn Zell Wright
System Vice President of Human Resources Operations
CHRISTUS Health

Breakfast with the CEO - Ben Coogan
2022-10-05 07:30 - 09:00 | Medical City Fort Worth, 900 8th Avenue, Fort Worth, TX, 76104
Please join us for the next in our popular breakfast event series . . .

Ben Coogan was named CEO of Medical City Fort Worth on July 12 ,2021.
With nearly two decades of healthcare experience, including executive and senior leadership level positions, Ben’s depth of industry knowledge will serve the hospital well in Fort Worth’s highly competitive medical district. Since 2019, he has served as COO of Medical City Dallas and Medical City Children’s Hospital with operational oversight of key service lines and facility construction. Under his leadership, the facilities underwent $56 million in capital improvements including an OR expansion, emergency department renovation and a 22-bed NICU expansion. Currently pursuing Level II Trauma status, the hospitals have also improved in outpatient experience and employee engagement scores, as well as maintained a Leapfrog Group A safety rating.

Prior to Medical City Dallas, Ben served as COO at Medical City Arlington where his leadership helped pave the way for a successful opening of the $60 million Medical City Women’s Hospital Arlington, new neurotrauma ICU and inpatient rehabilitation units, a biplane interventional radiology lab and the renovation and expansion of the emergency department, among other accomplishments.

Ben received a Bachelor of Psychology from Texas A&M University and a Master of Business Administration in Health Services Management from the University of North Texas. He serves on several Medical City Healthcare committees, is the division representative for HCA Healthcare’s Vital Voices colleague survey and is an active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Ben and his wife Jessica currently live in Frisco with their two children, Campbell and Caroline. Jessica is an executive with the Container Store in Coppell. Campbell is age 9 and will be going into 4th grade. Caroline is age 7 and will be attending 2nd grade in the fall. We enjoy traveling when schedules permit, and the girls are very active in sports and summer camps this season.

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