CLASS OF 2026 GRADUATE STUDENT BIOGRAPHY BOOK
Ayaad Akand
Ayaad Akand is a recent graduate of the University of Virginia, class of 2023. He hails from Vienna, Virginia, a suburb in Northern Virginia a little bit outside of DC. During his time in undergrad at UVA, Ayaad pursued a degree in cognitive science with a concentration in psychology. Being an interdisciplinary major, it was a good holistic look at the way people’s brain’s function and process information. A big part of Ayaad’s academic experience at UVA was his time spent doing research. He started out doing work in a wet lab analyzing pancreatic cancer cells and investigating what makes them so invasive and prone to spreading.
Continuing his passion for oncology, Ayaad now finds himself as a clinical research coordinator here at Georgetown University’s hospital’s Lombardi Cancer Center. With something missing from his research experience in the lab, being a clinical coordinator has been immersive, allowing for interaction with patients and time spent within a health system. This time has not only allowed for connections between PI’s and physicians to be made, but also a chance to truly see what things within a health system could be done better. Now, with some time spent in different corners of healthcare (the lab where development starts, clinical trials where they are tested, and hospitals where they are implemented), Ayaad finds himself with a new opportunity to expand on his perspective and learn even more about how some of the other parts of the system work, looking to find solutions to problems and things that could be improved inside and outside patient care.
When it comes to what Ayaad’s career goals are following his time in the MHSA program, they are no doubt still a work in progress. Transitioning out of a traditional research lab into clinical work, as well admission into this program, has opened a lot of doors for him. There are many avenues for administrative work in different areas of healthcare. Whether that be through consulting, acting as a liaison between parties regarding research, hospital administration, or healthcare finance. The fact that healthcare is becoming increasingly privatized makes this program a perfect segue into that world. Ayaad’s main goal is to gain experience and eventually find an avenue to contribute to change that solves current gaps that exist within patient care modalities and workflow. Some immediate possibilities that come to mind include venture capital and directing innovation within health systems or HMOs.
When it comes to life outside of school and work, Ayaad has a variety of interests and hobbies. Time outside of undergraduate studies has opened up space in his schedule to finally pursue some of his interests. As a lover of all kinds of music (seriously, I mean all types), please feel free to talk to him about who your favorite artists are and what you’ve been listening to lately he’d love to make you a playlist. Branching off of his love for music, he has recently started learning how to play the guitar and taking dance classes for salsa and bachata. Outside of that, you can find him enjoying a good book or a new rom-com show, though an occasional thriller is always needed. When not indulging in media, Ayaad spends a lot of time out exploring DC with friends and family in the area, always looking for the next concert or event to enjoy his weekend at.
Solomon Alleyne
Solomon Alleyne is originally from Philadelphia, PA, but he graduated from high school in Atlanta Georgia. After graduating he received a scholarship to attend the University of Kentucky, where he graduated with a Bachelors in Healthcare administration. While there Solomon worked as a NICU unit assistant and phlebotomist, as well as interned with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Office of Civil Rights & Small Business Development. Solomon presently serves as a Contract Specialist with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Before joining DHS, Solomon was employed in the healthcare industry as a Patient Account Services Manager, handling ambulance billing for D.C. His role there included leading business operations and strategic initiatives to enhance productivity, quality of care, and organizational financial performance. He oversaw staff coordination, adherence to patient confidentiality guidelines, and interface with service vendors, along with tracking and payment of patient invoices. While working in the private sector, Solomon also served honorably in the United States Air Force Reserves as a Medic. Presently Solomon has certifications from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement in Quality & Safety, his BLS from the American Heart Association, and his EMT certification. Solomon working towards completion of his Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FACC) Professional Certification while building his knowledge and skill set as a Contract Specialist.
Solomon has seen food deserts in neglected communities lead to poor health outcomes, like diabetes and hypertension. A career as a healthcare administrator provides the means to ameliorate systemic healthcare discrepancies both contemporary as well as archaic via policy for the betterment of our nation. Solomon believes this program fosters an environment auspicious to these needs within healthcare. The program’s competencies are part of a curriculum that not only coincides with his interest but also are topics imperative to the knowledge base of any healthcare administrator. Ultimately, his goal is to have his own healthcare practice. Currently, he is unaware of the specifics of the population and further nuances of the practice itself but looks forward to becoming more informed during his time in the program.
Solomon has a zeal for life and all things growth & personal development. Some of
his hobbies are reading in his hammock, fitness, scenic walks, art museums, poetry, movies, cycling, traveling, & most importantly spending quality time with those who know & love him. Additionally, when he is not pouring into the life of his son, he serves as a mentor for Washington, D.C.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters. He is a byproduct of mentorship and holds the belief that “To whom much is given, much is required.” Furthermore, he enjoys a good podcast and stimulating conversation around topics like personality types. Lastly, Solomon is also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi, fraternity INC
Ghable Bell
Ghable graduated from Howard University with a bachelor’s degree in health management with honors in December 2022. She started her career with Abiomed (Johnson & Johnson MedTech) as a research operations intern in the summer of 2022 and she is now a Clinical Trial Coordinator II. Ghable is primarily based in her hometown of Detroit, MI, and spends a great deal of time in Massachusetts and Washington, DC. Outside of work, Ghable is a fellow with the Black Women’s Health Imperative’s My Sister’s Keeper Program and currently focuses on research related to the effects of tobacco use and tobacco legislation.
Ghable selected a degree in health systems administration to merge her interests in business management and healthcare. She chose the MHSA program at Georgetown because the program studies a few of her major interests including health equity and health policy. Her ultimate career goal is to ensure that people can access high-quality healthcare regardless of income, race, or locality. Though her interest in research remains, she intends to transition to hospital administration after completing the MHSA program. Her additional interests include working on public health initiatives to address women’s health and improve health literacy.
Ghable loves music! She spends her free time attending concerts and enjoys traveling to see new venues. When she is not listening to music, Ghable can often be found at a bookstore shopping for a new novel or spending time with family and friends.
Charles
Dunn
Charles serves as the Associate EMS Coordinator at Yale New Haven Hospital in New Haven, CT. In this role, he is involved in various functions, including special projects, quality improvement, coordinating the development of systems to track clinical and operational performance, and collaborating on strategic initiatives. Prior to his role at Yale New Haven Hospital, he earned a bachelor's degree in biology from Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. He has over seven years of clinical experience working as an emergency medical technician and is actively pursuing paramedic licensure.
The driving factor in Charles’s decision to pursue health systems administration was the ability of healthcare leaders to positively impact a community on a large scale. He is particularly interested in health system management, operations, and business strategy. Throughout his career, he aims to improve access to care, patient outcomes, and system sustainability. He aspires to grow as a leader and progress into roles that will allow him to shape the organization's strategic goals and objectives and positively impact the communities they serve.
Outside of work and academics, Charles enjoys traveling, golfing, and spending time with friends and family.
Minivia Fernandes
Minivia grew up in San Jose, California. She pursued her undergraduate degree at Saint Mary’s College of California in the SF East Bay, where she graduated with a BS in Business Administration and concentrations in Data Analytics and Digital Media. Her journey into health care commenced with her role as a clinical data analyst for Stanford Health Care’s Solid Organ Transplant department. In this role, she has honed skills in data analysis, contributing to the optimization of patient care and operational efficiency. To further enhance her expertise, she achieved a Tableau Data Analyst Certification, which has equipped her with advanced data visualization and analytics capabilities.
Minivia is eager to expand her expertise in strategic management and business innovation through a healthcare lens, and she believes Georgetown University is the best place to do so. The program’s comparative health system global immersions that provide further opportunities for students to develop diverse perspectives, collaborate on teambased projects, and engage with health system leaders are also transformational experiences she is anticipating. She looks forward to collaborating with like-minded peers, learning from distinguished faculty members, and actively engaging in projects that push the boundaries of healthcare innovation. By pursuing Georgetown’s MHSA, she aims to become a driving force in health system evolution, creating lasting improvements that respond to the experiences of both clinicians and patients alike.
Outside of work, Minivia prioritizes balance through various hobbies and activities. She enjoys hiking and cycling to ground herself. She explores her creative side by improving her sewing skills with the help of her grandma. She loves attending live music events of all genres. And she has a passion for a fun & fiery game night with her friends.
Rachel Louissaint
Rachel was born and raised in New York City. She takes pride in being from New York. She appreciates the exposure to culture and diversity that living in NYC has given her. Rachel is also 2nd generation Haitian-American. With both of her parents immigrating from Haiti, she grew up speaking different languages and learning about culture. Rachel received her Bachelor’s degree from Temple University in Kinesiology. She then went on to pursue her PhD in Physical Therapy from SUNY Downstate. Rachel has been a licensed physical therapist for the past 10 years. She has worked in various healthcare settings from outpatient orthopedic, inpatient and short-term rehabilitation centers. She started her own practice over the pandemic where she provides physical therapy services in the home. She has specialized in working with athletes, helping them to return to play. She has physical therapy certifications in functional movement and managing sports injuries. She currently works at Mount Sinai where she is a Senior in her department. Rachel is also the President of the New York chapter of the National Association of Black Physical Therapists. She spearheaded the creation of the NY chapter after the events that transpired during the pandemic. Rachel has consistently been an advocate and has helped to promote diversity and equality in and out of the workplace.
After working as a healthcare provider for 10 years, Rachel is ready to pursue alternative careers in the healthcare industry. This desire is what drove her to want to explore going back to school. Rachel wants a role where she can take her experience as a provider and use her skills differently to affect change and move the industry forward. Georgetown became the clear choice because of its reputation, network, and curriculum. Rachel is interested in working in consulting. She would love to help businesses solve their healthcare problems. She also wants to continue her work in advocacy, potentially focusing on policy. After graduation, Rachel would love to work at a firm executing different projects. She is also open to learning more about the industry from an administrative perspective. Rachel is looking forward to learning from the esteemed faculty and the overall Georgetown experience.
Rachel enjoys staying active by going to the gym and taking workout classes. She has recently started taking tennis lessons but still needs lots of practice. Rachel has a love for traveling. She tries to go to 2 new countries per year. She has enjoyed traveling to
Paris, London, Dubai, Italy, Greece, Columbia, Mexico, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Montreal. This year she plans on traveling to Morocco. Rachel loves to explore the arts, sports, music, and literature. She frequents museums, concerts, sporting events, and enjoys participating in a book club with her friends. Her favorite sport to watch is basketball. She currently doesn’t have a favorite team but defaults to the NY Knicks.
Ryan McReynolds
Ryan grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, studying Natural Sciences and Health Management. While at Xavier, he co-founded a Student Government Association-funded project called “Xavier Has a Heart: Student-Led Initiative” which provided free CPR training and certification to student groups on campus. In its first year, the project won the “SGA Project of the Year” Award. Upon graduating, Ryan went on to take progressive roles in pharmaceutical operations, analytics, data action, sourcing, and clinical decision teams across several large hospital and health system-owned supply chain organizations. These organizations included St. Louis-based Mercy Health and Ascension Health as well as Cincinnati-based Bon Secours Mercy Health. While at Ascension Health, Ryan managed the generic injectables and 503A/503B compounding contract portfolios with pharmaceutical manufacturers during the COVID-19 pandemic, where his primary role quickly required him to secure as many drugs on shortage as possible. Leading the COVID-19 task force with other pharmacy leaders, Ryan won an award for “distinguished efforts in stewardship of Ascension’s mission to serve patients and communities”.
Ryan then took on a role with Bon Secours Mercy Health to stand up their start-up supply chain organization, providing consulting services for their pharmacy sourcing team and e-sourcing strategies. He then transitioned to the payer side of the industry, where he now works for Elevance Health’s growing pharmacy benefit manager, CarelonRx, managing commercial health plan client formulary strategies across Commercial, Medicare, Medicaid, and Affordable Care Act lines of business.
Ryan is fascinated with the economics of healthcare and wants to be a catalyst for innovation in the payer and provider spaces to lower the barriers to accessing basic healthcare services, especially for the poorest and sickest Americans. Having gone to Jesuit institutions for high school and his undergraduate studies, Ryan has come to fully embrace the Jesuit philosophy and holistic teaching style as well as the emphasis on living purposefully “for the greater glory of God.” He chose this program with Georgetown because of Georgetown’s Jesuit identity, pedigree as an elite institution, and the combination of in-person learning/networking and flexibility of remote learning. Ryan is excited to learn and grow with current and future healthcare leaders.
Ryan and his wife recently moved to South Florida from St. Louis, Missouri shortly after getting married in August 2023 in his wife’s home city of Amman, Jordan. He loves
spending time with family, traveling the world, meeting new friends, and trying new cuisines. He enjoys staying active by lifting and running long distances, including competing in half marathons and other races. Ryan volunteers at a local hospice in South Florida providing patients and families moral and emotional support throughout their stay. When he has time, he likes to play golf and watch his favorite pro sports teams: the St. Louis Cardinals and Blues, the Cincinnati Bengals, and the Miami Heat.
Hailey Mueller
Hailey grew up as a military child and lived in many different places. She got her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience with a minor in biology at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Virginia. After graduation, Hailey moved to Alexandria, Virginia, where she started and currently works for a private optometry practice as a medical technician.
Hailey wants to obtain a degree in health systems administration because she wants to advance her understanding of healthcare systems and improve her leadership skills. Hailey’s career objective is to grow into a leadership role in a healthcare facility that focuses on patient needs. She is eager to lead change in an organization to provide better outcomes for patients and the health systems they utilize. Hailey chose Georgetown University because of the unique and reputable education that is offered and the exposure that she will get to allow her to be a healthcare leader in the D.C. area.
Hailey wants to obtain a degree in health systems administration because she wants to advance her understanding of healthcare systems and improve her leadership skills. Hailey’s career objective is to grow into a leadership role in a healthcare facility that focuses on patient needs. She is eager to lead change in an organization to provide better outcomes for patients and the health systems they utilize.
Hailey grew up playing the harp and is passionate about any form of music. She also enjoys reading books and going on new hikes. As a military child, Hailey has been able to visit 26 countries and always enjoys planning trips to explore new countries.
Doris Richardson
Doris grew up in Flint, Michigan where she spent a lot of her time with her amazing parents and two younger siblings. Doris comes from a huge family on her mother’s and father’s sides. As a child, her maternal grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 73, and that sparked Doris’ interest in becoming a caregiver. In high school, she was granted the opportunity to earn her Certified Nursing Assistant certification through the state of Michigan. This opened the door for endless different careers in healthcare.
She began her journey at the University of Michigan- Flint majoring in Social Work but quickly transitioned to Healthcare Administration and Management. While being a full-time student, Doris has worked in healthcare for eight years as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She worked full-time as a Health Science Paraeducator at the Genesee Career Institute in the mornings with high school students pursuing a CNA and Patient Care Technician (PCT) certification and in the evenings, she worked as a CNA Instructor for the Adult Education Program. On the weekends, she would continue to work as a CNA doing private home care. During her undergraduate time, Doris was able to intern at Soteria Home Health and learned the world of home health and how important it is to have patience working with clients with Traumatic Brain Injuries. Currently, Doris is working as an After-hours coordinator at Soteria Home Health and is excited about her new journey in graduate school.
The Georgetown Health System Administration program provides the opportunity to apply classroom material to real life by allowing students to work full-time. This program will set Doris apart from other health professionals in healthcare administration because of the networking opportunities, the esteemed faculty teaching, and the smaller cohort sizes. When Doris graduates with her master’s degree in health system administration, she wants to focus on working with the aging population as an administrator in a long-term care facility. However, she also does not want to be put in a box and only work in one specialization. She would like to explore research in community health. Growing up in Flint and experiencing the Water Crisis has made Doris passionate about promoting healthy communities in lower-income societies. She would like to continue working with the aging population and promote a healthy, safe, and stable environment for them. Her long-term career goal is to open long-term care facilities for the aging population and would like to explore career opportunities in other health systems.
Doris is the oldest of three children and enjoys spending time with her family. She has one cat named Milo who loves to be kissed on the top of his head. When Doris is not working, she enjoys reading romance books. Doris is a huge foodie and will travel with her sister to try some good food. She enjoys exploring new places and wants to travel to Singapore on her 30th birthday. She loves hanging out with her parents and siblings and spending her time joking and laughing with them. Her family is her greatest support system and has always provided them with the tools to move through life. Through her faith believing God will do anything possible if you believe. Doris has gotten this far because of her faith, hard work, and passion.
Nirvahn Thakur
Nirvahn Thakur is from Charlotte, North Carolina. He graduated from Clemson University in May with a BS degree in Psychology/ Pre-Med Track and a minor in Business Administration. While he was at Clemson University he spent some time as a tutor for organic chemistry, working as a PAL tutor for the Academic Success Center. In addition, was an EMT, working summers and throughout the school year to gain experience and hours in the clinical environment. After graduation, he began a Data Engineer position at IBM.
During his time at Clemson University, his goal was to go to medical school. Although it may sound cliché, Nirvahn wanted to be a doctor to help people. Getting into medicine is a huge commitment and it requires all of your time. He was an EMT in college because he wanted to make a difference immediately. During his time in school and working as an EMT he realized that major change within hospital systems will not happen from a patient-doctor relationship. Meaningful organizational change has to come from the exterior, hence his shift into Healthcare Systems Administration. He wants to use his degree to be able to make meaningful systematic changes within healthcare environments.
When he’s not working, he’s either playing golf or spending time outside. He loves camping and swimming, everything outdoors! He also loves cars; it might sound weird but it’s a fun hobby for him. He loves working on them, driving them, and is an avid fan of F1. He has a little brother who is 16 and a Havanese who is 3 years old. Nirvahn has also traveled extensively, he has been to India, Indonesia, across the US, and around Europe. The Thakur family is a big fan of taking huge family vacations so every couple of years we always plan to go places we have never been.