WE CARE

About connecting with our patients who are also our friends, our neighbors, and our family members.

About our state-of-the-art technology and services across our 17 locations.

About providing safe, reliable, high-quality, convenient care when you need it. We care about what matters most…YOU!

productivity. I have devoted a lot of time and energy to continuing education for myself and my staff. By encouraging my staff to focus on their interests within physical therapy and providing high-quality care, I have tried to make CNY Physical Therapy and Aquatics the leader in physical therapy within Syracuse.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “Empathetic, helpful, motivated, passionate about physical therapy.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Currently, the healthcare industry is struggling to focus on patient care. I find that patients are not always receiving the services they should. Sometimes this is due to patients not knowing about options available. As a result, we have begun performing screenings and community outreach programs to help reach patients in pain.”

What do you do for fun? “Walking my dog, playing piano, building Legos.”

Nancy Daoust

Chief Ambulatory Officer, Upstate University Hospital.

With organization since: April 2002.

In current position since: 2019.

Education: Doctorate in executive leadership, St. John Fisher

College; master’s degree in management, Keuka College; Bachelor of Science degree in healthcare administration, SUNY Brockport; Associate of Applied Science degree in medical assisting, SUNY Alfred.

Career Highlights: “Lead the revitalization of the acquired (2011) community hospital to increase growth across multiple services, including orthopedics, urology, OB and transitional care. Develop and promote ambulatory care strategic initiatives to improve patient experience and quality of healthcare by increasing system access, enhancing innovation and technology such as the Nappi Wellness Institute, focus on primary care and implementation of Upstate Hospital at Home.”

Current affiliations: Chapter of ACHE — Healthcare Management Association of CNY, board of directors, past president; fellow at American College of Healthcare Executives; Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education; The Centers at St. Camillus board of trustees; MedBest medical management board; NYS licensed nursing home administrator.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “Put people first. Advocate and support the team, inspire and mentor others to enhance employee satisfaction and build Institutional and social cohesion. Leaders must strive to model the way.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “Active listening, being present, and engaged is key to effective leadership. Always support others in their own personal career journey and remember we all make mistakes and those are vital lessons to learn. Knowing when to use humor helps.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “The healthcare industry would be improved by increased regional planning and collaboration among the health systems and post-acute service providers to reduce expensive service and intensive resource duplication.”

What do you do for fun? “Spend time with my family, cook, read, garden, hike, and watch the Bills!”

Senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer, Mohawk Valley Health System.

With organization since: 2022.

In current position since: 2022.

Education: Doctorate degree in nursing practice from University of California Los Angeles in Los Angeles, California; a Master of Science in nursing from California State in Los Angeles, California; and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Wesleyan University Philippines.

Career Highlights: Prior to joining MVHS, served as CNO and senior associate administrator of Harborview Medical

About Us

The mission of the Central Region Addiction Resource Center (CRARC) is to “establish a capacity to coordinate community resources, increase cross-sector collaboration on substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts and aid community members in raising the awareness of current substance abuse issues and locating services within their region.”

The goal of the CRARC is to not only reduce the stigma around opioid addiction by collaborating regionally but to give people in the Central Region access to the resources available in Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga & Oswego counties Through working in partnership, we work collaboratively across sectors to provide communities the chance to share resources, address concerns and put in place a more comprehensive plan to address all aspects of addiction to best help the people in need. It is vital that we recognize the importance of working together, discussing needs in each community, and plan how to best help people not just at a local level, but as a region.

The CRARC app is available for download on apple and android devices. Within the CRARC App, you will be able to see a list of substance use disorder providers including prevention, treatment, and recovery services. The app is organized by county but can also be shown as a map showing providers closest to you. The CRARC can also be reached by calling (315) 697-3947.

1507 Upper Lenox Ave., PO Box 389, Oneida, NY 13421 www.bridgescouncil.org

C R A R C

Center in Seattle, Washington, which is part of University of Washington Medicine. Also served as CNO at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in San Bernardino, California.

Current affiliations: Attained certifications from the National Association for Healthcare Quality (CPHQ), the American Nurses Credentialing Center (NEA-BC) and the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (CCRN-K). Additionally, has been active in many professional organizations, including the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, American Hospital Association’s regional policy board, the Northwest Association of Nurse Leaders and the California Hospital Association’s CNO advisory committee.

President, Upstate Medical University.

With organization since: 1979.

In current position since: November 2020.

Education: Master’s and bachelor’s degrees from the University of Bombay, T.N. Medical College, India.

Career Highlights: Service in numerous leadership roles at Upstate Medical University, including as chairman of the department of psychiatry and interim dean of the College of Medicine. As interim president, from November 2018 to October 2020, supported efforts to increase and enhance local mental health services. Has led the university’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has included the development of a leading saliva swab COVID diagnostic test, now widely used systemwide by SUNY to test students and keep campuses safe; university participation in hosting major clinical trial of Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine for adults and children; and serving as a New York state vaccine hub for the region. While leading the region’s largest employer, Dewan’s vision for increasing diversity in the healthcare workforce and health education, as well as his strategic priorities to continue to enhance the services and footprint for Upstate Medical University, have been his goals since becoming president in December 2020.

Named SUNY distinguished service Professor. Received Syracuse University’s chancellor’s medal.

Ashley Edwards

Kathleen Gaffney-Babb

Chief nursing officer and vice president of clinical services

With organization since: July 2012

In current position since: Fall 2022

Education: Master of Science in nursing; nursing management and executive leadership from Sacred Heart University; Bachelor of Science with a major in nursing from SUNY Polytechnic Institute; associates degree with a major in nursing from St. Elizabeth College of Nursing.

Career Highlights: Leadership experience across many departments including nurse manager of ICU/ER, director of surgical services, director of maternal child services; decrease in agency nurses by 50% from March 2022 to December 2022; full time RN turnover rate less than 6% since August; mplementation of a nurse residency program to transition senior nursing students into registered nurses in a desired department

Current affiliations: ANA, member; Nurse Executive Board Certified (NE-BC)

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “Utilize a combination of servant and transformational leadership with a focus on shared decision making. Focus on frontline staff involvement and developing autonomy through educational opportunities.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “Being present, approachable and available for the frontline staff. Practicing consistency and accountability. Interdepartmental collaboration.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Continue to focus on the needs of frontline staff, promote educational opportunities in the work place, partner with nursing and vocational schools to support growth within the facilities and utilize staffing models with acuity based tools to support quality patient care and outcomes.”

What do you do for fun? “I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going on day trips and weekend adventures with my husband and daughters and watching my daughter dance.”

Interim president and chief executive officer, Helio Health.

With organization since: 1991

In current position since: Jan. 1, 2023.

Education: Master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling, Syracuse University; NYS Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse counselor; certified rehabilitation counselor.

Career Highlights : Syracuse Behavioral Healthcare, outpatient director, inpatient director, director of quality assurance, training and compliance; adjunct professor at Syracuse University; adjunct professor at Onondaga Community College; director of student services at Onondaga Community College; electronic health record implementation consultant; served Helio Health as executive vice president and chief operating officer from 2016 to 2022.

Current Affiliations : President and chief executive at Fulton Friendship House; board member of Omnes IPA.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “My leadership approach combines compassion, communication, mentoring, accountability and systems leadership. Our colleagues are dedicated, talented mission-driven individuals who want to make a positive difference in the lives of others. It is my privilege to support them in those efforts.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “My education, experience and personal commitment to provide access to quality care for the people we serve and a place of belonging and professional growth for our colleagues is my life’s work. I continue to strive each day to be a leader who communicates authenticity, integrity intentionality, knowledge, and connectedness to our mission.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Central New York is fortunate to be the home of excellent hospitals, behavioral healthcare services and community resources providing social determinants of health supports. The people in our region may find it difficult to navigate their way through the various resources especially when they and their families are dealing with a difficult period in their lives. Connecting people to care when they need it, maintaining engagement with them and their families is vital to the individual and community wellbeing.”

What do you do for fun? “My husband I enjoy bicycling and walking nature trails. We also enjoy time with our families and our two golden retrievers.”

Marylin Galimi

Chief operating officer, Upstate University Hospital.

With organization since: 2016. In current position since:2021.

Education: Associate degree in electrical engineering technology, SUNY Canton; bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and management, Rochester Institute of Technology; master’s degree health system administration, Rochester Institute of Technology.

Career Highlights: “I have been fortunate to have worked for great local companies and with amazing people. My experience has brought me here, working with a talented and kind group of leaders that focus all their energy on improving healthcare for our region. My career highlight is being part of the Upstate Medical University leadership team.”

Current affiliations: Syracuse Rotary Club and Syracuse Hoops

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “I focus on collaboration and team work. I firmly believe that each member of a team has a critical and irreplaceable role. Working together and leveraging each other’s skills is how we can succeed.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “Listening and compassion. I try to always understand what the needs of others are before mine. From this perspective, I find that we are all working toward common goals and it’s just a matter of helping each other achieve those goals.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “The last couple of years have taught us that collaboration among our institutions is essential to supporting the healthcare needs of the region. We need to continue this collaboration and work to strengthen our primary care and long-term care service.

“We also need to find ways to grow our workforce, not only in the medical field but also in support services (parking attendants, maintenance personnel, cleaners, volunteers, clerks, billing etc.) Every single position in healthcare is critical to patient outcomes and everyone has an impact on the patient experience. Unfortunately, the last couple of years have left a negative impression on some of our younger generations which could have an impact on future recruitment.”

What do you do for fun? “I enjoy running and listening to music, it is my self-reflection time. My favorite pastime is to watch my kids play sports. They both enjoy playing basketball and it is amazing to see them grow in their individual skills and as team players.”

Kent N. Hall

Chief Physician Executive, Mohawk Valley Health System.

With organization since: February 2020. In current position since: February 2020.

Education: Bachelor’s degree from Union College, Schenectady; medical degree from Upstate Medical University.

Career Highlights: Emergency medicine residency program director, Medical College of Wisconsin; emergency department medical director, Goodall Hospital, Sanford Maine and Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, Plattsburgh; chief medical officer of Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, Plattsburgh, and of Alice Hyde Medical Center, Malone.

Current affiliations: American Association of Physician Executives, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Association of Emergency Medicine.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “First, I believe you lead from the front. Second, you need to be vulnerable. In that way you are open to all experiences and opportunities. I work every day to understand the ‘why’ of everyone I interact with, and to match their ‘why’ with the task at hand. In this way we can get to a win-win situation.”

Skills that make you an effective leader? “I’ve learned to listen thoroughly and thoughtfully. It’s easy to be crafting an answer while the other person is talking. Unfortunately, you then miss what the other person is actually saying. And I have the courage to take on new opportunities. These are all opportunities for growth.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “We’re all in this profession to take care of people. We should work in a more coordinated manner. Communication is key to this.”

Tommy Ibrahim

President and chief executive officer, Bassett Healthcare Network.

With organization since: July 2020.

In current position since: July 2020.

Education: Doctorate in Medicine and Bachelor of Medical Science degrees in England; completed his internal medicine residency at Greater Baltimore Medical Center, an academic affiliate of Johns Hopkins, in Baltimore, Maryland. Holds a Master of Science degree in health administration from Seton Hall University.

Career highlights: Has held leadership positions within the health care industry for the past 14 years. A transformational leader who challenges his teams across the system to continually pursue excellence in safety, quality, patient experience and access. Began his career in medicine as a hospitalist before transitioning a few years later to administration. Prior to assuming leadership of the Bassett Healthcare Network, served as executive vice president and chief physician executive for INTEGRIS Health, the largest nonprofit health care system in Oklahoma. In his three years as chief physician executive at INTEGRIS, he led the strategic direction for clinical services throughout the 19-hospital health system of owned and joint-venture assets, including all clinical operations, the physician enterprise, and system integration objectives. This position included direct responsibility for system research, graduate medical education and medical informatics. Also served as chief physician officer and vice president of medical affairs at Mercy Health Network in Des Moines, Iowa, from 2014-2017, and as senior vice president and chief physician executive at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, from 2010-2014.

Current affiliations: Board-certified in internal medicine and hospital medicine. Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives; Fellow in hospital medicine; received the Certified Physician Executive accreditation from the American Association of Physician Leadership.

What do you do for fun? “I happily live in Cooperstown with my wife, Marian, and our two children. I enjoy camping, hiking, biking, lake living, traveling, and great food.”

Scott Jessie

Chief nursing officer, Upstate University Hospital.

With organization since: 1999.

In current position since: 2021

Education: MBA, Lamar University, graduation expected in spring 2023; MSN, clinical nurse specialist with minor in adult education, SUNY Upstate, 2007; BSN, SUNY Upstate, 2003; AAS Nursing, Cayuga Community College, 1998.

Career Highlights: Worked at Upstate since 1999 in various roles, including as operations section chief — COVID-19 response and executive director of nursing, with oversight for the following areas: emergency services, triage and transfer center, poison control center, administrative supervisors group, staffing support specialist group, throughput operations center, patient flow administrator, throughput nurse team, discharge hospitality center nursing business operations.

Current affiliations: American Organization of Nursing Leadership, New York Organization of Nurse Executives and Leaders, Central New York Organization of Nurse Executives and Leaders.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “Some key philosophies I live by: Always be fair, consistent, and honest; relationships and trust are key; the patient has to be at the center of our decisions; listen to understand instead of listening to reply; communicate – a lot; mentorship of new leaders and succession planning is critical

to our success.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “Patience, honesty, empathy, quick learner, good communicator, always learning, team player-collaborator.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “I think we need to: provide meaningful support and resources to our incredible dedicated but overwhelmed and exhausted healthcare staff. The pandemic changed everything and these staff remain at the forefront every day; improve the pipeline of new healthcare staff for CNY; focus on inequity and healthcare disparities across the region; continue to innovate and implement new technologies to offload the staff we have and let them focus on delivering highly skilled patient care: drones, robots, software and mo b ile devices etc; continue modernizing our facilities to provide the best patient care and recruit top talent; secure resources to address the pediatric mental health crisis; continue to advocate for funding and resources to ensure we can keep meeting the needs of a large diverse population spread across a very large geographic region; continue to support research through universities and technology growth through places like the CNYBAC; collaborate more on duplication of services across multiple hospitals; constantly evaluate the healthcare landscape and find ways for large and small organizations to collaborate/partner to keep providing care in large and small communities; partner with large quaternary medical centers and systems to bring care closer to home.”

What do you do for fun? “Spend time with family, read, photography and Disney visits!”

Joseph A. Johnston

Vice president of operations, Guthrie Cortland Medical Center.

With organization since: March 2020. In current position since: March 2020.

Education: Master of Business Administration, May 2015, from Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame (South Bend, Indiana); bachelor’s degree, July 2004, from Ball State University.

Career Highlights : Led the development and implementation of ARRA, The HITECH Act, and Meaningful Use resulting in being among the first 2% of radiation oncology practices nationally to successfully attest to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) including post-attestation audit. Served as business development lead in multiple engagements with tertiary/ quaternary partners resulting in world class healthcare including The University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Medicine; lead and pioneered best-in-class service line(s) performances in financial margins, patient experience and quality; lead and supported in excess of $100 million in capital improvements and de novo projects; numerous community-based organizations’ board positions; numerous awards and recognitions for organizational advancement and community service, including Top 40 Under 40.

Current affiliations: Board-certified and fellow of American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE); board-certified and member of American College of Medical Practice Executives (CMPE); ARRT: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, RT (T).

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “My management philosophy is tripartite in nature. I believe you set clear expectations and hold teams accountable, while also empowering and supporting teams to meet expectations. If you were to view this as a Venn diagram, the overlap of these two approaches results in a very high level of engagement that promotes success. I’m also a firm believer in education/professional development and visibility.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “I think humility and vulnerability are extremely important characteristics in leadership. We as leaders are often looked toward for answers, which can have an empowering effect; however, we do not always have the answers. Humility and vulnerability places emphasis on being open minded in support of seeking answers that reflect the best interests of our community.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Like most things, this is a dynamic and multifactorial question. I’ll attempt to answer while acknowledging several contributing factors. First, social determinants of health are of primary focus. The lion’s share belongs to public policy; however, community-based organizations, specifically healthcare, play a key role as we provide the best opportunity to advance and educate healthcare populations. We are also economic hubs for the region(s) we

OVER 70 HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS IN ONE NETWORK!

SAY HELLO TO HEALTHY!

Say hello to a more convenient way to stay healthy in Oswego County. ConnextCare offers a comprehensive set of services; family and internal medicine, pediatrics, dentistry, psychiatry, and social work under one medical group. Patients within our network can visit any of our seven locations at any time.

ConnextCare also offers medical and mental health services at eight school-based health centers in five Oswego County school districts.

serve. Second, improved healthcare access and alignment. Like any industry, healthcare is competitive, but if the COVID pandemic has taught us anything, it is that there is significant opportunity in collaboration and leveraging healthcare resources. Last, I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the shortages of clinicians and support staff across the continuum of care. This is creating tremendous burn-out among our caregivers. This untenable situation calls for greater alignment among industry global forces (i.e. Academia, CMS, Managed Care, etc.) in support of a resolution.”

What do you do for fun? “Most of my time is absorbed by professional obligations and my beautiful family. Outside of this, I enjoy several hobbies which include live music, the outdoors, sports and traveling.”

Seth Kronenberg

Chief operating officer and chief medical officer, Crouse Health.

With organization since: 2010.

In current position since: 2018.

Education: Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Attended medical school and did his residency and chief residency in internal medicine at Upstate Medical University.

Career Highlights: A board-certified internist, previously practiced at Internists Associates of Central New York and Crouse Medical Practice. Joined Internist Associates of Central New York in 2001, becoming managing partner in 2005. In 2010, Internist Associates became part of Crouse Medical Practice, PLLC, and he was appointed medical director. Currently has oversight of clinical operations at Crouse Health and maintains leadership responsibility and strategic oversight for physician activities. He also has leadership responsibility for strategic affiliations, quality improvement and population health.

Current Affiliations: Member of the boards of directors of Syracuse Community Health Center, Community Memorial Hospital, HealtheConnections and Lab Alliance of CNY.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “It is important to set the goals and strategic direction and then to give staff the autonomy and freedom to perform their jobs. I give them encouragement to always come to me with issues, ideas or concerns. If there are barriers, I appreciate when staff can offer potential solutions on how to remove them and I am there to help facilitate. This creates not only buy-in, but can also build confidence and team commitment.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “Leadership requires the ability to think strategically and, in many cases, act quickly — especially in healthcare. I encourage and model open and transparent communication, which is one of Crouse’s core values but also critical to engaging our employees and providers. The pandemic has forced us to process information quickly and adapt frequently to rapid changes.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Working more closely together to improve the health of our communities is very important, now more than ever. This is exemplified by the coronavirus pandemic, which has brought hospitals, long-term care providers and governmental agencies together with a common goal. We have all learned a lot during this challenging time.”

What do you do for fun? “With four teenage daughters, our family is on the move. Skiing in the winter and kayaking in the summer keeps us all active.”

Jamie Leszczynski

Senior vice president of communications and chief branding officer, Oswego Health.

With organization since: August 2019. In current position since: January 2023.

Education: Graduated from SUNY Oswego with a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing in 2004; completed the Stanford Healthcare Leadership course in December 2022.

Career Highlights: At the age of 25, received the Oswego County Business Magazine’s Forty Under 40 award and then was recognized again at the age of 32 by BizEventz for its 40 Under 40 in Onondaga County. Graduated from the Leadership Greater Syracuse, Class of 2014.

Current affiliations: For over a decade has chaired the SAVE Central NY Charter (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) to raise awareness surrounding mental health.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach: “I would say my style of leading is that of transformational management. In marketing and communications we focus on the big idea and not fall lazy to doing what has always been done. I push my team to try new innovative ways to solve problems, communicate or engage with our patients and community.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “I strive to always display positive relational energy every day at work as a means to uplift, enthuse and renew our staff.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved: “Collaboration is key. At the end of the day, healthcare should see no geographic boundaries or territory. The patient will always be our priority and collaboration is essential to provide the utmost care. Whether that’s been staff, community providers or other health systems, collaboration is pivotal.”

What do you do for fun: “As a mom of three children, I love being active in their sports and volunteer as a coach for youth basketball for Wayuga County Rec.”

Mark Muthumbi

Central New York Regional President/Vice President, Commercial Sales Eastern Markets, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

In current position since: July 2020. With company since: 1999.

Education: Master’s degree in business administration from Le Moyne College, Syracuse; bachelor’s degree in business administration from Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia.

Career highlights: As regional president, Muthumbi combines his leadership of commercial sales and account management for the eastern markets (Central New York, Utica and Southern Tier regions) with additional responsibilities of supporting and maintaining business and quality health, and provider networks for CNY region. He is a 40 Under Forty award recipient, graduate of the Leadership

Greater Syracuse, and a certified health consultant professional with the BlueCross BlueShield Association and the Academy for Healthcare Management. He is licensed in life, accident and health insurance with the state of New York.

Current affiliations: Board member, the Longhouse Council (Boy Scouts of America); Hospice of Central New York; Pan African Community of Central New York (PACCNY); and HealtheConnections.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? Communication and patienceaffording time to understand issues and identify opportunities. I also have the belief that positive attitude, consistency and maintaining structure are important skills to have when working with others.

Skills that make you an effective leader? Having an open mind and encourage diversity. Our markets, our customers and our members are of diverse backgrounds and their expectations are diverse as well. When working with them I strive to understand their needs to keep an open mind and deliver solutions that meet those needs.

In Central New York, Excellus is fortunate to have a strong market presence, where the subscriber may also be a community leader, a provider, or a board member. So understanding their perspectives and appreciating their expectations is key to a successful relationship.

How can the business climate in the region be improved? A thriving business climate requires a healthy community where health disparities are being addressed, including some of the most basic needs like access to health care, food, and housing. “Continuing to invest in a healthier, more engaged community — especially in this current environment — will bolster and propel relationships, leading to growth in our local economy and region.

What do you do for fun? Outside of work I enjoy staying active by walking, bike riding, playing board games like chess, golfing and supporting for our local teams such as SU and Bville sports. I also enjoy spending time in our Central New York-Upstate region. It’s beautiful and offers outlets for a variety of other activities.

Kathryn Pagliaroli Senior vice president of clinical operations and chief nursing officer, Oswego Health.

With organization since: 2001.

In current position since: September 2022.

Education: Earned Master of Science management from Keuka College in 2009 and Bachelor of Science in nursing in 2001 from Roberts Wesleyan College.

Career Highlights: In 2013 she was recognized by Oswego County Magazine as one of the Forty Under 40 recipients. In 2019 received the CNY Organization for Nurse Executives and Leaders regional leadership award. In 2022, received a Rising Leader award from the New York Organization of Nurse Leaders at their 30th Anniversary Gala; In 2022 also received the Healthcare Executive of the Year Award from CNY Business Journal.

The ALS Association Upstate NY Chapter supports people living with ALS and their loves ones in our community through services such as: home visits, peer support groups, a durable medical equipment loan program, two quarterly grant programs, outreach and education We

Current affiliations: Serves on the board of the Oswego Renaissance Association and the New York Organization of Nurse Leaders.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach: “My approach to leadership is geared at building on people’s strengths, and understanding their stories. We have a saying that “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Each of us has a unique talent that they bring and when people are complimenting each other we all achieve success.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “I use active listening and direct communication as tools to help me be a better leader. “

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved: “Continued collaboration is needed as we move into the future. In the post-pandemic landscape, we are building on the strengths that we gained. We know the importance of having a strong healthcare system locally and we need to expand those conversations regionally. We also need to recognize the toll the pandemic has taken on healthcare providers and continue to offer them our utmost support and respect.”

What do you do for fun: “I love spending time with my husband and three kids, engaging in their activities. I can also often be found in the kitchen baking or cooking.”

Tricia Peter-Clark

President and chief executive officer at ConnextCare

With organization since: 2013

In current position since: 2021

Education: Bachelor’s degree in health services, D’Youville College; Master of Business Administration, St. Joseph’s College; board-certified in healthcare management, American College of Healthcare Executives.

Career highlights: “During my tenure at ConnextCare, I am most proud of bringing together disparate operations and cultures, from the five acquired practices into one unified and efficient primary care network throughout Oswego County. Subsequent to the integrated practices, I am proud of the leadership I provided during our rebranding campaign that led to our new name,

ConnextCare, which truly signifies the magnitude of reach we have across Oswego County, without limiting our potential for future growth. Receiving the 40 Under 40 award from the CNY Business Journal in 2018, joining the list of other young distinguished leaders is also a true highlight and an honor. Earning my fellowship status with the American College of Healthcare Executives in June of 2019. Leading expansion and growth opportunities in the middle of COVID-19, which resulted in opening of two new practice sites in Oswego County and a new dental partner within long-term care.”

Current affiliations: Director, Central New York Area Health Education Center; director, County of Oswego Industrial Development Agency; treasurer, Operation Oswego County, Inc.; treasurer, Oswego County Integrative Delivery Network Independent Provider Association, LLC; vice president, Upstate Community Health Collaborative Independent Provider Association, LLC; vice president, Finger Lakes Independent Provider Association; fellow, American College of Healthcare Executives; member, Oswego County Health Department Professional Advisory Committee; member, New York State Association for Rural Health; member, Community Health Center Association of New York State; member, Medical Group Management Association; member, Healthcare Financial Management Association; member, Zonta Club of Oswego.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “My approach aims to build strong relationships with staff across all disciplines, demonstrating a high level of respect, trust and integrity, which yields a motivated, hardworking and committed workforce full of endless collaboration and growth.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “I have strong communication skills, with a high level of decisiveness. I’m flexible to changes daily and believe that delegation is an art, not a weakness. I demonstrate a continuous positive attitude and enjoy mentoring talent around me as they are capable of great things if you share your vision and constructively guide them along the way.”

How can the business climate in Oswego County be improved? “Continue to showcase the many assets we have within our county, to encourage the attraction of new businesses, while supporting the expansion of others.”

What do you do for fun? “I enjoy running with my dog, biking with my kids, being outdoors, cheering on my acquired sports teams, gardening and baking cookies! I have the most fun however; being with my family and watching my children grow!”

David E. Ristedt

Medical director and primary care lead, Guthrie Medical Group, Northern Region.

With organization since: 2019.

In current position since: 2020.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, University of Arizona, 1990; medical degree from Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, 1995; master’s degree in strategic studies, U.S. Army War College, 2016.

Career Highlights: 32-year career in the Army. Involved in leadership, education and medical infrastructure development around the world, leading to better quality, safety and capability development for patients and their healthcare teams.

Current affiliations: Academy of Family Physicians.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “Empowering subordinates to act within their resources and critically analyzing problems to quickly understand options to ‘get to yes.’”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “Critical thinking, decisive and empowering.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Provide opportunities for those with an interest in medicine to pursue their dream. Our region can foster this though collaborative partnerships that enhance education and training opportunities for development of healthcare partners across nursing, technician, and medical support. This will grow local talent and attract others to our region.”

What do you do for fun? “Golf, hike and explore local culture. The Finger Lakes has so much to offer.”

Maryann Roefaro

Chief executive officer, Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY.

With organization since: May 2002. In current position since: May 2002.

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Albany College of Pharmacy; master’s degree, SUNY Upstate Medical University; Doctor of Divinity degree from the American Institute of Holistic Theology.

Career Highlights: 2002 to present: CEO of Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY; 2000-2002: senior vice president, primary care services, Crouse and Community General hospitals; 1996-2000: corporate vice president for ambulatory care services, Crouse Hospital; 1990-1996: administrator, North Medical Family Physicians and North Medical Urgent Care; 1989-1990: laboratory manager at North Medical Laboratory Services; 1984-1988: microbiology section head, Community General Hospital.

Current affiliations: President, Cancer Connects; board member, Breast Care Partners, OCC Foundation, Wisdom Thinkers Network, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield; clinical associate professor, SUNY Upstate Medical University since 1990.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “A team is as strong as the sum of its parts. Every relationship we have begins with the one we have with ourselves. I believe the success and harmony of any organization or workgroup depends upon the level of mastery and resiliency of its people. Personal and corporate accountability are paramount. My philosophies are articulated in my book, ‘Building the Team from the Inside-Out.’”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “I think I have the kind of communication skills and understanding of human behaviors that allow me to be a successful leader. I am blessed with a blend of analytical skills and intuition. I love creating and naturally gravitate toward strategic initiatives geared toward short- and long-term development and success.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Improvement of the healthcare industry first begins with personal accountability for health and wellness. To me, that includes the physical, mental and emotional health and stability of our children and their parents. Our healthcare system is saturated with non-patient care-related tasks. I think the procurement of data and outcomes coupled with the interconnection of electronic health information among all providers would substantially improve our healthcare industry.”

What do you do for fun: “Spending time with the family and running.”

Jonathan (Jon) Schiller President and CEO, Oneida Health

With organization since: 2022.

In current position since: 2022.

Education : Bachelor’s degree from LeMoyne College; master’s degree from Rochester Institute of Technology; board-certified fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Career Highlights: Executive on a team that constructed greenfield new hospital $360-million project, served as incident commander for relocation of two legacy hospitals into a new hospital; started many new services to the community, including the programs of robotic surgery program, bariatric surgery, vascular surgery and addiction medicine. It started six graduate medical education residency programs in six specialties, with 154 residents in training each year. Founding board member for a new medical school that opened in 2012.

Current affiliations: Board member at Madison County Rural Health Council, Christ Healthcare Ministry and New Hope Community. Fellow of the American College Healthcare Executives.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “I am a servant leader, and will never ask a member of our organization to do something I wouldn’t do myself. I believe that everyone comes into work to do good, it’s important to maintain an engaging, valuesbased work environment so that everyone can do their best to care for our patients and each other.”

Skills that make you an effective leader? “Listening, always listening. Building consensus. I have an open door – all in the organization are welcome to share ideas, concerns, or what is on their mind with me directly.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “The next hurdle for our region is redeveloping a healthcare workforce. We have lost tens of thousands of healthcare workers across the state since 2020 and will need collaborative solutions to solve this problem.”

What do you do for fun? “Fishing, hiking, and spending time with our family.”

Martin Stallone

degree from University of Pennsylvania; MBA from Wharton School of Business (UPenn); master’s degree from Naval War College; bachelor’s degree from Cornell University; Graduate Medical Education degree from Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (internal medicine).

Career Highlights: Serving as medical director of Cayuga Health Partners (CHP), a physician hospital organization that has won various distinctions, including being the highest quality, lowest cost ACO in New York state in 2017. CHP is a leader in innovative VBP arrangements in Central New York. Various physician leadership roles including as president of CMC’s medical staff and president of the Tompkins County Medical Society. Served for six years as the commander of the 174th Medical Group of the 174th Attack Wing at Hancock Field before being appointed as the state air surgeon of New York effective in September 2019.

Current Affiliations : Fellow of American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE); board diplomat, American Board of Internal Medicine; board member of HealtheConnections; regional advisory board member for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, CNY region; New York State Air Surgeon, New York Air National Guard; Tompkins County (and NYS) Medical Society; attending physician, Cayuga Medical Center medical staff.

How do you describe your managerial philosophy of approach? “I enjoy a high tempo and authorize my team to innovate and take calculated risks in order to achieve stated objectives. I freely delegate authority, but never the responsibility for achieving Cayuga’s mission. Our team works collaboratively to achieve objectives that support larger goals, and I ensure we take care of each other while we strive for success. I deeply respect the professionals I have the privilege to lead and that sentiment underscores all my interactions.” positions in community-based organizations and (I believe that) I understand what is expected of the healthcare system by our society.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Healthcare organizations are under an unparalleled amount of pressure to evolve and they would greatly benefit from more supportive policies (both federal and state) that assist in transforming them to central actors in the modern healthcare system. This would require, among other things, for the systems to cooperate in ways that produced efficiencies and shared best practices.

What do you do for fun? “I enjoy spending time with my wife and our six sons. Additionally, I enjoy working on my very average golf game.”

President and chief executive officer, Mohawk Valley Health System.

With organization since: Jan. 1, 2019.

Education: Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives; BA from University of North Dakota; MBA, Rivier College, Nashua, New Hampshire.

Chief executive officer, Cayuga Health System.

With organization since: 2009.

In current position: January 2019.

Education: Medical

Skills that make you an effective leader : “I have been fortunate to have operational experiences in the outpatient setting (group practice administration), network management including physician and facility contracting and hospital operations. In my military career, I have led teams in high stress environments and learned to make time constrained decisions amidst uncertainty. As an attending physician and clinical director, I have directly cared for patients in the inpatient setting and worked to improve complex processes involving systems. I have held various leadership

Career Highlights: The construction of a new regional medical center in downtown Utica will be the second time in my career that I have been involved in building a new hospital. What a wonderful once in a lifetime (or twice) opportunity! My career path has always been focused on transformation which has led me to interesting challenges and required me to stretch and handle complications that I’d never thought possible. And it has been a gift. Along the way, I’ve met wonderfully talented and caring healthcare professionals and interacted with patients at their most vulnerable times. It is such meaningful work!

How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “I have to show up every day with my whole self. The more open I am as a person with my coworkers the better CEO I am. It is about servant leadership. Never can you expect an employee to do something you would not do yourself. No task is too big or too little. Solid leaders must lead from a position of integrity. If you compromise that, you can accomplish nothing.”

Skills that make you an effective leader: “I am very resilient so I can handle setbacks and challenges while staying focused on the long-term goal. I have the courage to take on challenges which builds on one’s experience. And I have a sense of humor which makes every day just a bit more fun.”

How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Certainly the new state-ofthe-art regional medical center in downtown Utica will improve the efficiency of care and comfort for the patients. Importantly, it will also increase interest from physicians looking for a great place to live and practice. As we recruit doctors we will also increase our success at recruiting nurses and other skilled healthcare professionals. This is a remarkable transformational opportunity for this region.”

What do you do for fun? “Exercise of all types (hiking, cross country skiing, heading to the gym) helps both the body and the mind. I also enjoy music of all kinds. I read a lot. I just finished “The Institute” by Stephen King, am presently reading a book on the late Robin Williams and have one on Ruth Bader Ginsburg on my nightstand. And I’m a great tourist.”

Amy Tucker

Chief medical officer, Upstate University Hospital; associate dean for clinical affairs, Upstate Medical University’s College of Medicine.

With organization since: April 2017.

In current position since: 2018.

Education: Master’s degree in healthcare management, Harvard School of Public Health; medical and undergraduate degrees, The University of North CarolinaChapel Hill.

Career Highlights: Prior to joining Upstate, was on the faculty at the University of the Highest Quality of Hearing Healthcare

Virginia, where she served as founder and co-director of the Women’s Cardiovascular Prevention Clinic and as the director of ambulatory and consultative cardiology services. The recipient of several teaching awards, she has a longstanding investment in medical education, serving as the associate dean for clinical affairs in the Upstate College of Medicine, and having previously served as the associate chairwoman of medicine for undergraduate medical education and director of the cardiovascular fellowship training program while at the University of Virginia. Also held the position of chief medical officer for Locus Health, LLC, a Virginia company providing comprehensive care coordination, remote patient monitoring, and performance optimization using advanced data analytics.

Current affiliations: Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and the American College of Physicians.