| Seven Sponsored Students Reflect on ACHE Congress |
If I had to summarize Congress in one word, I
would say inspiring. As I listened to
the opening remarks, I realized that everyone was there for the same reason. We
are members of the American College of Healthcare Executives and committed to
integrity, lifelong learning, leadership, and diversity & inclusion. There
was nothing more inspiring than being surrounded by 4,000 other dedicated,
driven healthcare leaders. From the opening session to the final reception, I
remained inspired. Inspired to learn, grow, and make a difference in the
healthcare field. Madison Davis
A common theme of the many sessions was the
need to differentiate oneself from others by expanding knowledge and
experience, wearing many hats and doing things that go beyond a job
description. Another way to look at the concept of setting oneself apart is the
notion of investing in oneself. Some speakers mentioned it is vital to
demonstrate learning agility, show passion and practice clear thinking. The
importance of taking care of oneself and maintaining work-life balance was
emphasized by several speakers. I particularly liked the idea that balance of
work and life might not always be possible, but the integration of the two can
be achieved.
My last session was concerned with
international opportunities. The speakers said that risk-taking fosters
creativity and resourcefulness. They also appreciated the exposure to worldwide
best practices and a chance to build lasting friendships. Malwena Zastawna
Growing up I was taught the importance of
diversity; diversity of thought, diversity of opinion, and diversity of
experience. The people within healthcare management encompass this diversity,
and by attending Congress I was able to grow, learn, and collaborate with them. The information presented at ACHE’s 2017
Congress on Healthcare Leadership provided me the opportunity to think
creatively, collaboratively and innovatively with individuals working towards a
similar cause. As a future healthcare executive, I hope to use the information
I learned at Congress to motivate my team and contribute to out-of-the-box
ideas to remain ahead in the ever changing world of healthcare. Maha Madi
More
than 4,000 diverse healthcare leaders from around the globe gathered to share
their perspectives, insights, and knowledge. Having that many people so
passionate about the same thing created a motivating and exciting environment!
Some of the topics my sessions covered were building and sustaining an
effective quality and patient safety program, core communicative competencies
to become a spirited leader, redefining population health, etc. Throughout my
week at Congress, I made many new connections with fellow students from across
the country, as well as executives that showed wonderful leadership and the
willingness to help guide new healthcare leaders. Elizabeth Murry
I was able to
attend a variety of sessions during the week. The topics ranged from the
transition from student to executive, integrating behavioral health and primary
care, sustainable innovation, rural population health, and leading an
experienced workforce. The session on integrating behavioral health and primary
care was inspiring. Hearing from leaders
who have successfully implemented innovative solutions that led to real health
improvements and outcomes for their patients has me excited to join the
workforce and start making changes and improvements myself.
In addition,
networking with alumni from my own graduate program and then meeting fellow
students from other universities was a rewarding experience. Everyone I met had
a similar passion to my own, in that we all want to make a positive impact
improving the lives of our communities. John Hart
Three words describe my experience at the ACHE Congress 2017: progress, persistence, and positivity. Regarding ACHE’s core
value of lifelong learning, Congress provided an environment to network, learn,
and grow. One of the seminars I attended presented on updates for healthcare
policy. At the conclusion of the session, I had a sense of progress.
Several awards were presented to members of
the organization, which aligns with ACHE's core value of leadership. It was
encouraging and motivating to witness individuals in healthcare be recognized
for their work and contributions. Many of the student track seminars provided foundations
for students to become recognized leaders in the future. A common theme
throughout these sessions was persistence. The facilitators relayed to students
that healthcare is unlike any other industry in the world and that we must work
hard and stay motivated in order to leave our mark.
Several fellow attendees provided reading
lists, contacts and advice for my career aspirations. I felt a wave of
positivity leaving the Congress because of renewed motivation and inspiration
to continue to work towards my goals and my journey to become an integral part
of our healthcare system. Jackie McCullough
I loved seeing people who are advanced in the
healthcare field but willing to share their thoughts on different issues facing
the industry. I heard best practices concerning
many different initiatives such as MACRA, value-based care, and patient safety programs.
The networking opportunities at the conference were also wonderful. It was a great chance to get to know other
students and to meet executives in attendance.
Overall, Congress inspired me and got me
excited about the future of healthcare.
Despite the problems within the industry, a lot of incredible work and
advancements are being achieved. I
appreciated the overall positive feeling at the conference and the
encouragement to improve the industry together in order to provide better
patient care. I look forward to
attending Congress again in the future and to increasing my involvement in ACHE
once I become a full member. Lyndsey Harrold
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