ACHE - TENC 2025 November Issue No. 27

QUARTER 3

NOVEMBER 2025

ACHE of the Triangle and Eastern North Carolina

THRIVE CHECK OUT OUR UPCOMING EVENTS! STRONGER TOGETHER: EXPANDING OUR IMPACT ACROSS THE TRIANGLE AND EASTERN NC MATT GITZINGER, MHA, FACHE, PRESIDENT ACHE-TENC

FEATURED MEMBER L. LEE ISLEY

JOIN THEF BECOME AN ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE TRIANGLE HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVES FORUM

About Us ACHE of the Triangle & Eastern North Carolina (ACHE-TENC) is a nonprofit membership association and an independent chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), a professional society representing over 48,000 members worldwide. ACHE-TENC serves Nearly 1,000 ACHE members who live and work in the 54 North Carolina counties from the RaleighDurham area north to the Virginia border, east to the Outer Banks, and south to the South Carolina border.

Our Vision ACHE of the Triangle & Eastern North Carolina (ACHE-TENC) aims to be recognized as the leading professional membership association dedicated to supporting and advancing healthcare leaders throughout the region.

Our Mission Our mission is to support the professional development of healthcare leaders in the region, preparing them to shape healthcare management at the local, regional, and national levels.

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Goals Deliver programs that bring local value to ACHE members assigned to our Chapter service region Increase communication among healthcare management professionals Advance members toward Fellow, ACHE certification Foster the development and implementation of best practices in healthcare management Practice good financial stewardship

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CONTENTS 9 Legacy in Distinguished Leadership New FACHE Fellows

10 Member Spotlight: L. Lee Isley

20 Upcoming Events

4 Message from the President 5 Message from the Regent 6 Chapter Performance Metrics 7 Welcome to New TENC Members 13 2025 TENC Mentorship Program Closing Banquet 14 2025 Fall Summit: Our largest yet!

18 NALHE Spotlight on Leadership Feat. Bianca Padilla & Andrea Dabal 23 Become a Sponsor!

24 Stay Connected!

10 - 17 Chapter Event Synopses A Recap of TENC Events in Q3

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25 New Website is Live!

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Stronger Together: Expanding Our Impact Across the Triangle and Eastern NC MATT GITZINGER, FACHE, PRESIDENT, ACHE OF THE TRIANGLE AND EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA (ACHE-TENC)

Dear Colleagues,

We just wrapped up our most successful Fall Summit yet, with It’s fall, y’all, and what a season of nearly 175 participants diving deep change it’s been for our chapter! into one of healthcare’s biggest challenges: navigating federal We are excited to announce the disruption. The key takeaway? official launch of ACHE of the Keep patients at the center. Pair Triangle and Eastern North their stories with data, advocate Carolina (ACHE-TENC), formed by with heart, and strengthen local merging the Triangle Healthcare partnerships to improve what we Executives’ Forum (THEF) and can control and sustain what Sandhills Healthcare Executives’ matters most. We also want to Forum (SHEF). Our new chapter now thank our current sponsors and represents 54 counties and nearly welcome new sponsors, GSK, 1,000 members, highlighting the Diasorin, and Labcorp, as their strength and shared mission of our partnerships make events like community.

Summit affordable for members.

A huge thank-you to our September also marked the close of Communications Committee Coour 2025 Mentoring Program, Chairs, Paul Marini and Ashley celebrated with a banquet featuring Mahan, and their amazing team for Lisa Rosenberg, Chief Operating bringing our new identity to life, from a Officer of UNC Health Medical fresh logo and updated website to Group, as keynote speaker. Shortly beautifully redesigned materials. after, we partnered with NALHE to You’ve helped us look as strong as host “Improving the Health Status of we feel. For instance, the exceptional Your Community,” where leaders fellow spotlights showcase leaders shared practical strategies for like Dr. L. Lee Isley, FACHE, CEO of population health and chronic UNC Health Nash. Dr. Isley has been disease management. a consistent, reliable, and generous mentor to members, as well as a And just recently, we held another willing and experienced contributor to impactful C-Suite Roundtable at past educational events.

CarolinaEast. My sincere thanks to David Long, Chair of ENCHEG, for This fall has brought major milestones organizing, and Harvey Case, COO for our chapter. of CarolinaEast, for hosting.

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Engage with ACHE-TENC Get involved.

Committee nominations for 2026 may have closed, but opportunities to contribute are always open. Join us at https://thefnc.org/Committees

Earn your board certification.

Elevate your career and stand out as a recognized healthcare leader : https://thefnc.org/Advance_to_Fellow

Attend ACHE Congress 2026.

Join 7,000+ members in Houston for inspiration, learning, and connection: congress.ache.org

Next up: our Student Scholarship Networking Event, where we’ll announce the 2025 Student Scholarship recipient, one of the many ways we invest in the next generation of healthcare changemakers.

Speaking of investing in yourself, it’s not too late to sit for the Board of Governors (BOG) Exam this year. Wrap it up before December and make the most of your earned credit hours—you’ve done the work; now seal the deal!

While uncertainty persists in healthcare, through the government shutdown and funding model changes, and amid the accelerating rise of AI, our mission remains constant. We are called to lead with steadiness, compassion, and purpose. In times of rapid change, the clarity and integrity of our leadership will define the direction of tomorrow.

Warm regards, Matt Gitzinger, FACHE President, ACHE of the Triangle and Eastern North Carolina (ACHE-TENC)

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Message from your ACHE Regent Registration for Congress is now open, and I hope to see many of you there. It is a dynamic conference! The website is full of resources you can access to help you on your personal growth journey. Your local chapter has many opportunities for networking, education, and volunteering, so please take advantage of that.

VI-ANNE ANTRUM, DNP, RN, FACHE REGENT FOR NORTH CAROLINA

Dear wonderful colleagues, Fall brings beautiful transformations with weather cooling, leaves changing, and people starting to prepare for the holiday season. You are all leading transformation in healthcare at your organizations as well. We could not have a better partner to prepare us for this than ACHE. I’m thankful for the connections and opportunity to learn from each other. It allows me to bring best practices back to my organization.

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ACHE Chair-Elect, Noel Cárdenas, FACHE, visited ACHE of Greater Charlotte to share his personal journey, the power of mentoring, and the numerous benefits that come with ACHE membership. It was powerful! This chapter also won the District 2 Regent-at-Large award for their inclusion efforts.

ACHE of the Triangle and Eastern Carolina, formerly known as THEF and Sandhills, combined and rebranded themselves which is a massive undertaking. Congratulations to those two chapters on coming together and offering a full day summit immediately afterwards!

FACHE of the Triad demonstrated the power of partnership with our HENs. They held an event at Winston-Salem State University that was well attended by students, faculty, and executives alike! This was such a beautiful way for us to learn from each other. I came away better for it.

ACHE has created a strategic plan for 2026–2028. I encourage you to review this insightful document. Our Board of Governors and the ACHE team have thought deeply about what is needed for the future of healthcare leadership.

I hope you will take advantage of all that ACHE offers you as a member.

Give yourself the gift of pursuing your Fellow credential this year.

Consider giving someone else the gift of volunteering your time, bringing a colleague to a chapter event so they’re not alone, serving as a mentor, or connecting with someone you have in your network.

You’ll both be better for creating community!

In service to you, Vi

TENC Chapter 2025 Performance Metrics ACHE measures chapter performance annually based on four key performance criteria: net membership growth, education and networking performance, advancement of eligible members, and member satisfaction. We are working towards achieving the 2025 standard performance metrics.

Member Satisfaction

Education & Networking Performance 2025 Standard: 15.1 indexed attendee hours

2025 Standard: 4.1

Current Status: 12.4 indexed attendee hours

Current Status: 4.4

Advancement of Eligible Members

2025 Standard: 16

Current Status: 5

Net Membership Growth

2025 Standard: 7.2

Current Status: 27.5

Here's how you can contribute to meeting our chapter performance goals while investing in your own professional development: Participate in chapter programming

Complete the Chapter Member Needs Survey in May

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Earn your FACHE credential

Join ACHE or reinstate your membership

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! The following individuals joined ACHE or transitioned into our chapter this quarter. We are happy to have you, and look forward to connecting at an upcoming chapter event!

Adriana Torres Akhil Tippireddy, BS Ali Hamdani, MD Allen Stephens Allison Stevens Amber M. Williams Amy E. Pike Amy Johnson Amy Yancy Mangum Anagha Mundrathi Andrew Core Andrew Featherston Andrew Steffey Anjali Pathak Anna Henthorn, BS, MHA Anthony Tyre Arthur F. Roussillon Ashlee Steeley, MPH Ashlyn Fortney Ayat R. Soufan, LCSW Bill Readdy, MD Bimbola F. Akintade, PhD Brandi Ross Braxton E. McKoy Braxton E. McKoy Brenda W. Greenberg Brett Moran, FACHE Brian Sloan Brittany Robinson Brooke McLaughlin, MHA, BSN, RN Bryan Lester Caleb C. Smith Cannae Mathews Carmel Hannah Carolyn Menendez, MD Chaithanya Duryea Chanda P. Joyner Cheri DiStefano, MBA, BSN, RN Christina M. Bowen Christinna Haire, APRN, NP Christopher Frank Chukwudi S. Ubah, DrPH, MPH, FACMPE Dana Clifton Daniel Blandon-Hendrix Darby K. Walser Darcy Suarez Diane Sauro Elizabeth Chaparro, RN, BSN Erin Edwards, JD Erin Huprich Evan B. Phillips Gabby Garza Genie Lopez Gina M. Catalano

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Grant Voss Heather Marstiller Heather Winecoff, MHA, BSN, RN HM1 Andrew Urbanyi, MPH HM1 Balofoma Wembakpete HM1 Christopher N. Miller HM3 Enoch G. Osei HMC Michael B. Lavender, MHA Ieschecia N. Graham Allen, BS Isaac Hallam Jacob Holcomb Jade J. Joy Jaydon Carter Jeevan Swaminathan Jeffrey Nguyen, FACHE Jenny B. Roberts Jessica James Jessica Teague Jody Clarke Joel Graham John Berglund, MHA John W. Gray, II Jonathan P. Young Kacie A. Spencer Karen Roque, MPH Karen T. Holden Katelyn Thomas Kathleen A. Ferrell Kelly Washington, RDN Keri Noeske, DNP, RN, NE-BC, FACHE Keron McCalla Kevin Haynes Latrisha Smith Laura Yudo Lauren Gregory LaVonne Senanou LCDR Kate Svenson Leigh P. Goller Leslie Evenson, BSc Lori Srivastava Lt Col Luis R. Rodriguez LT Rachel M. Peoples LTJG Britney E. Bessarab, MBA-HM LTJG Patrick J. Fontaine 2LT Channing Byrd Lyndsey L. Harrold Madison Warren Malia N. Guillory Margaret K. Clark, MHA Mariana Rolinsky, MPH, MPA Marion R. Faya Mark D. Gwynne, DO Mark Fulton, MBA Mary M. Gilbert Meghan Smith

Melissa A. Fitzpatrick, MSN, RN Melissa Fike, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC Michael Steger, PA-C Michelle L. Carroll, MBA Nadeem Modan, MD Natasha Wiltshire Nathan Odell Neal Seigler Nicole Burnett Nicole Panosh Oluwole E. Omolafe Oluyemi Moses Patricia Baise, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE Paul Bruning, DHA Paul Burge Rafael Benitez Samano, RN Rebecca Schulkowski, PharmD, MBA, FACHE Rhonda D. Reeder Richard Jared Richard T. Benson , II, MD Roshen J. Koshy Rowell Daniels, PharmD, MS Ruben Sloan, MD, PhD Ryan Moore, MD Sadie G. Hutsenpiller Saul A. Williams Sergio Luckett Shaista Sayeed Shari A. Collie-Leachman Sharon D. Perryman, MHA, BSN, RN Sheila M. Kelty, DHA, FACHE Simrun K. Walia Stefanie Resillez, MHA Stephanie Henry Stephanie Naylor-Lillard, MSW, LCSWA Sudha Rathie Susan Solomich Sydney Billimack Tamika Kelley Tammy W. Collie Terence McCabe Tiffany B. Wilson Tiffany Mose Tiraus T. Epps, MHA, PMP Trinity Stewart Victoria Banks Victoria Mitchell Vonte M. Hedgebeth Wade Bemmels Waqiah M. Ellis, PhD, MSN, RN Wenhuan Jiang, PhD Yingchao Wang, MBA Yogin Patel, MD, MBA Yuri A. Fesko, MD Zachary Addis

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Benefits include a wide range of career resources, networking opportunities, mentorship, educational events, and more!

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LEGACY IN DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP New FACHE Fellows We asked our new fellows to share what ACHE Fellowship recognition means to them: Pursuing the FACHE credential has offered me the opportunity to reflect and learn alongside an esteemed group of colleagues dedicated to pursuing excellence in healthcare management, as Dr. José G. it represents a standard of Cabañas, MD, MPH, best practices that FACHE enhances service delivery New Bern, NC for those we serve.

José G. Cabañas, MD, MPH, FACHE, serves as the Chief Medical Officer for Wake County Government. He provides executive physician oversight to the Wake County EMS System and programs and services that support the community’s health and public safety.

LT Marie Noel Piekam, MSC, USN, FACHE, PMP Chapel Hill, NC

The achievement of the Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) accreditation demonstrates my dedication to lifelong learning and offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to the advancement of healthcare by sharing my knowledge and expertise. Being affiliated with a distinguished community of healthcare leaders who actively influence their communities through advocacy, policy development, and innovative care is both an honor and a lifelong commitment to impactful service.

LT Marie Noel Piekam, MSC, USN, FACHE, PMP, serves as a Plans, Operations, and Military Intelligence (POMI) Fellow at the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV).

New October Fellow!

John A. Kohler, Sr., MBA, FACHE

Recertified Fellows Joann Anderson, LFACHE

Dawn Peele, FACHE

Amy H. Montgomery, FACHE

How to become an ACHE Fellow Meet the eligibility requirements Submit your advancement application. Upon approval, you will have two (2) years in which you must take and pass the Board of Governors Exam When you become board-certified in healthcare management as an ACHE Fellow, you'll stand out from the crowd as a professional.

Contact the TENC Fellowship Advancement Committee at advancement@thefnc.org for support.

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TENC Member Spotlight L. Lee Isley, Ph.D., FACHE President and Chief Executive Officer at UNC Health Nash What inspired your career in the healthcare industry, and what is your current role?

Growing up in rural North Carolina, I gained an appreciation for serving one’s community. Through the Boy Scouts, I attended an EMT class for one of my badges and found healthcare fascinating. I became an EMT and then sought out a four-year degree in Emergency Medical Services. Western Carolina was one of only two colleges in the country with such a program at the time. Once a paramedic, I led the transition of a local EMS program to integrate with the hospital, where I learned a great deal about hospital operations. Upon completion of that project, the hospital CEO asked me to join hospital operations. That began my journey of gaining experience in a variety of hospital operations, which prepared me to be a hospital CEO.

What accomplishment from work are you most proud of?

I strongly believe we must continue to advance our individual professional development and support the profession in which we’ve dedicated our careers.

ACHE and TENC are the institutions that allow us to do just that.

Having led community hospitals throughout my career, I am most proud of the work we have done to rebuild and expand medical staff services, regain the community’s trust, and recapture market share as a result. That all comes from building a team and culture that believes in themselves and remains focused on their mission.

What advice would you give to younger members who are earlier in their careers?

Do you have any content recommendations for our members?

Why did you decide to join ACHE-TENC?

Say yes to projects and opportunities to learn and grow.

Aim to truly understand operations at the ground level, and don’t shy away from learning the clinical aspects if you don’t have that background; all the more reason to ask questions and understand it.

Aim to work for someone who allows you to fail forward and apply your learnings to the next challenge.

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Regardless of your role, gain a deep understanding of healthcare finance. Leverage the ACHE & TENC content on healthcare finance, then ask questions of your CEO and CFO to better understand how it works in your organization.

Look for content on the quality metrics used to evaluate hospitals. Learn what operational and clinical workflows are involved in driving those outcomes.

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Q3 2025

CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSES

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS

AUGUST NETWORKING SOCIAL ACTALENT, RALEIGH

We look forward to seeing everyone at the next Member Happy Hour on November 13th!

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS

2025 Mentorship Program Closing Banquet Celebrating Six Months of Growth, Connection, and Shared Learning

By Euniqua Bullock, MSN, CEN, RN-BC, CNML, NEA-BC

The 2025 ACHE - TENC Mentorship Program concluded with a memorable closing banquet on October 9th. This special event brought together mentors and mentees to celebrate the highlights and achievements from the six-month program, marking the culmination of a journey focused on professional development and building lasting relationships within the healthcare field.

The program's journey began with a call for applicants in March, inviting individuals to participate as mentors or mentees. After a careful application and interview process, 27 mentoring pairs were matched to ensure alignment of interests and goals. To set the stage for the months ahead, a virtual orientation led by the program committee was held in May, welcoming participants and establishing expectations.

As the program progressed, participants took part in the inaugural Clifton Strengths session, hosted exclusively for them by Kimberly Eastman. This session provided valuable tools for personal and professional growth, helping mentors and mentees identify and leverage their unique strengths in their mentoring relationships.

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The closing banquet featured Lisa Rosenberg, Chief Operating Officer of UNC Medical Group, as the guest speaker. Lisa delivered an inspiring keynote emphasizing the transformative power of mentorship. She discussed how mentorship not only fosters growth but also creates meaningful connections that can last a lifetime. Lisa shared practical tools and examples of successful mentor-mentee pairs, encouraging participants to continue their journey of shared learning and support.

Throughout the evening, mentors and mentees had the opportunity to share personal stories and memorable moments from their time in the program. These reflections underscored the value of mentorship in developing leadership skills, broadening perspectives, and building a supportive professional network.

The Mentorship Program set a new standard for engagement and impact, thanks to the dedication of the committee, the enthusiasm of participants, and the guidance of guest speakers and facilitators. As the program wraps up, participants are encouraged to continue nurturing the relationships and skills developed over the past six months, ensuring that the spirit of mentorship lives on.

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS

2025 FALL SUMMIT From Capitol to Community: Navigating Federal Disruption in Local Healthcare

by Isabelle Murphy The 2025 Summit brought together over 170 healthcare professionals, students, and executives from across North Carolina to explore how leadership, collaboration, and innovation can shape the future of healthcare. The event’s energy reflected a shared commitment to navigating the rapidly changing landscape with compassion and courage, as members and panelists connected through shared experiences and forward-looking discussions.

Each panel offered a unique perspective on transformation while consistently reinforcing the unifying message: North Carolina’s healthcare leaders are motivated by a shared sense of purpose and optimism about the future.

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Panel 1: The Healthcare Organization’s Role in Public Policy Summit began with a dynamic conversation led by Dr. Chi-Cheng Huang, Chief Medical Officer at Inbound Health, that emphasized how healthcare organizations have both the opportunity and the responsibility to shape public policy to improve patient outcomes in North Carolina.

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS

Panelists Dr. Tracey Simmons-Kornegay, Health Director for Duplin County; Dr. Leigh Gurley, Pharmacy Manager at ECU Health Duplin Hospital; and Leah Burns Pfister, Vice President of System Affiliations and Integration at UNC Health, shared firsthand experiences. They spoke from the front lines of care delivery and advocacy.

Dr. Simmons-Kornegay painted a vivid picture of healthcare in rural Duplin County, where more than half of residents are uninsured and access to care often depends on persistence, creativity, and trust.

She described partnerships with churches, schools, and farmworker organizations that bring health services directly to people where they live and work.

Dr. Gurley emphasized that building relationships, not just programs, is key to overcoming barriers and creating lasting change. She showed how collaboration between public health and hospital systems helps bridge the gap for patients who rely on emergency departments as primary care. Leah Burns Pfister gave the statewide perspective. She highlighted the grassroots movement that made North Carolina’s Medicaid expansion possible. She reminded attendees that collective advocacy drives progress, even when policy feels out of reach.

The discussion ended on a hopeful note, reminding everyone that real change comes not only from policy, but from dedicated action. Attendees were called upon to actively advocate, form new partnerships, speak up to policymakers, and continue the hard work that makes healthcare more just for all North Carolinians.

The panel encouraged all present to leave inspired and committed to using their voices, expertise, and connections to advance a stronger, more equitable healthcare community in North Carolina.

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Panel 2: The Future of Healthcare Financing This panel was moderated by Sue Martin, Senior Vice President of Commerce Healthcare. Tanya Brown, serving as CFO of UNC Health’s Chapel Hill Medical Center, and Dr. Daniela Jaime Escalera, CEO of Piedmont Health Services, joined as panelists. The discussion offered a candid, urgent look at how hospitals, clinics, and community health centers are navigating today’s financial pressures.

Both leaders spoke openly about the difficult balance between sustainability and access.

Tanya described the financial landscape as “scary.”

She said the post-pandemic years have been tougher than the pandemic itself. Hospitals now face rising costs, new Medicaid reimbursement cuts, and shrinking margins that threaten essential services.

She warned that behavioral health and labor and delivery units, especially in rural areas, are most vulnerable. Daniela added that community health centers also feel the strain. Federal grants make up only a small part of their budgets, leaving them heavily dependent on Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements to keep clinics open for the 52% of patients they serve who are uninsured.

THRIVE Despite these challenges, the panel's tone remained hopeful. Both emphasized that innovation and collaboration, not cutbacks, will define the next chapter of healthcare financing. Daniela described how Piedmont is investing in mobile care units and a long-overdue electronic health record upgrade to improve access and efficiency, while Tanya spoke of rethinking delivery models and strengthening partnerships across systems rather than competing for the same patients. Both agreed that the future depends on creativity, shared responsibility with payers, and a renewed focus on people, the patients, and the teams serving them. The session closed with optimism that even amid financial uncertainty, North Carolina’s healthcare leaders are proving that mission and sustainability can move forward together.

Panel 3: Successfully Leading Change in Healthcare Organizations The third panel of the day opened with a burst of energy as moderator Rob Findley of ECU Health invited the audience to literally stand up and move, a reminder that change is never comfortable, but always necessary. The session brought together a group of leaders who live this reality daily: Christy, Chief Nursing Officer at Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center; Howard Woodfield, Chief Operating Officer of UNC Health Wayne; Kevin Briggs, Senior Director of Laboratory and Respiratory Care Services at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center; and Todd Hickey, incoming President of ECU Health North Hospital.

From the start, the panelists spoke with refreshing honesty about the discomfort and urgency of leading transformation in a field that never slows down.

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS They discussed how sustainable change starts with understanding who it impacts, how to communicate it, and how to carry people through it without losing trust.

Howard emphasized the importance of clarity and alignment, noting that when an executive team makes a decision, everyone must “leave the boardroom singing the same song.” Christy shared how she introduced Lean principles in her growing medical center to strengthen reliability and culture of safety, focusing on the “three Ts” of change: target, timing, and tools. Kevin underscored the power of relationships, describing how Novant’s Barbershop Initiative partnered with trusted community leaders to bridge long-standing gaps in care, while Todd reminded the room that leaders must “remove barriers” for their teams and celebrate progress one step at a time.

What unified the discussion was a deep sense of humility. Every panelist acknowledged moments when change failed, not because of poor ideas, but because of rushed timing or missed communication. They spoke candidly about lessons learned: the need for transparency, vulnerability, and grace, both for staff and for themselves. “Change is like a grieving process,” Rob reminded the audience as the conversation closed. “Everyone moves through it at a different pace.” The lingering message was one of optimism. Real leadership, the panelists agreed, isn’t about controlling every outcome, it’s about showing up, listening, and creating stability in the middle of motion so people can keep moving forward together.

Panel 4: Best Practices in Adapting to Local Regulations, Markets, and Trends The final panel of the day brought together four leaders whose perspectives spanned the full ecosystem of North Carolina healthcare , from government to hospital systems and insurance.

THRIVE Moderated by Christine Craig, Vice President of Government Affairs at WakeMed, the discussion featured Josh Dobson, former North Carolina Commissioner of Labor and now representing the North Carolina Healthcare Association; Anita Bachmann, CEO of UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina; Senator Gale Adcock, the only nurse currently serving in the North Carolina Senate; and David Pope, CEO of Scotland Health Care System.

As the last session of the Summit, the panel was both candid and urgent, addressing the economic and policy realities reshaping access, funding, and equity across the state.

David Pope opened with a powerful reflection on the “two North Carolinas”, one urban and thriving, and the other rural and struggling. He reminded attendees that the state’s deepest health challenges remain concentrated in the same counties that have faced structural inequities for generations, making health equity work inseparable from rural investment. Josh Dobson followed by noting that while the state is growing rapidly, workforce shortages and policy instability threaten that progress. He highlighted the critical need to expand the healthcare pipeline and strengthen community colleges to fill thousands of nursing and allied health roles. Anita Bachmann and Senator Adcock then offered a sobering look at the financial strain caused by federal and state-level Medicaid cuts.

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS Despite the heavy subject matter, the panel closed with a sense of shared purpose. Each speaker returned to the same theme: the future of healthcare in North Carolina depends on unity between providers, payers, policymakers, and communities, not as separate interests, but as partners working toward a system that serves every resident with dignity and stability.

The 2025 Fall Summit closed on a note of gratitude and momentum. Throughout the day, every conversation, from policy and finance to leadership and community health, showed what is possible when North Carolina’s healthcare professionals come together with honesty, creativity, and purpose. The energy in the room was undeniable, filled with ideas that challenged, inspired, and united everyone around a shared goal: building a stronger, more equitable healthcare system for all who call this state home.

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Spotlight on Leadership Voices from NALHE North Carolina We’re proud to spotlight two inspiring leaders from the North Carolina Chapter of the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives (NALHE). Meet Bianca and Andrea, who share how mentorship, representation, and community have shaped their journeys in healthcare.

Bianca Padilla Tell us about yourself?

Bianca: I currently serve as a clinic manager for Front End Operations at UNC Health in Chapel Hill, supporting multiple outpatient clinics across the area.

My professional background includes progressive experience in healthcare administration.

Andrea: I serve as the director of Strategic Partnerships at Baxter. I have more than 20 years experience in the healthcare industry in the med tech device space.

What inspired you to join NALHE? Bianca: I joined NALHE to support the Latino community, advance career growth, and help increase Latino representation in healthcare through mentorship and community.

Andrea: I joined NALHE because representation matters. As a Latina in healthcare leadership, I often stood alone in the room. NALHE offers a space where our voices are heard, our stories are valued, and Latino professionals are empowered to lead with authenticity.

How has NALHE impacted your professional growth or leadership journey?

Bianca: Serving as Co-Chair of the Programming and Education Committee has allowed me to develop and apply skills beyond my day-to-day responsibilities.

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Andrea Dabal I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with organizations like TENC/ACHE, to coordinate several successful and upcoming events. These experiences have deepened my interest in project management and enhanced my ability to lead cross-functional initiatives.

Andrea: NALHE has expanded my professional and personal growth. It has connected me with an incredible network of executives, mentors, peers, and new friends who have reinforced my prospective on the importance of diversity in leadership and in life. Through NALHE, I’ve learned the power of advocacy, collaboration, and personal purpose. It has strengthened my voice as a leader and deepened my commitment to continue to advocate and advance our mission across the healthcare ecosystem.

What initiatives or programs are you most excited about within NALHE? Bianca: I’m particularly excited about the continued growth of our North Carolina chapter and the upcoming collaborations we have planned. These initiatives will further strengthen our community and expand our impact across the region.

Andrea: I’m particularly excited about our rich educational content that is being shared via virtual and in-person panel sessions with outstanding representation and bold leaders. Our national leadership development and mentorship programs (La Mesa) that connects emerging professionals with senior executives is also outstanding.

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These initiatives truly embody the spirit of NALHE — creating pathways for healthcare acumen growth and representation at every level. I’m also inspired by our partnerships with organizations like ACHE/ACHE TENC that amplify opportunities for Latino leaders to meet and network with folks at various levels of influence and decision-making which can only make us unite around a single purpose and drive real change.

How does your chapter engage with the local community?

Bianca: Our chapter has hosted both virtual and inperson events that have connected professionals from across North Carolina, including both members and non-members. These events provide valuable networking opportunities and foster a sense of community within the local healthcare landscape.

Andrea: Our North Carolina chapter is deeply rooted in community engagement and collaboration. We partner with local healthcare systems, universities, and professional associations to host educational events, leadership forums, and networking opportunities that highlight Latino excellence and inclusion in healthcare. We also plan to participate in local health fairs and diversity initiatives that address disparities and build stronger, healthier communities through awareness and advocacy.

What advice would you give to early careerists looking to get involved?

Bianca: I encourage early careerists to actively participate in committees and attend events to learn from senior leaders and expand their networks. Take advantage of every opportunity to gain experience and grow. Even skills or lessons you gained years ago can become valuable assets later in your career.

Remain open, curious, and willing to step outside of your comfort zone.

Andrea: My advice is simple — say yes and get involved. Don’t wait until you feel completely ready.

Volunteer, attend events, and build connections. Every opportunity to contribute or learn is a chance to grow your leadership presence. Within NALHE, your voice and perspective matter, and there will always be a network of professionals willing to guide and support you along the way.

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CHAPTER EVENT SYNOPSIS

What does “familia” mean to you in the context of NALHE’s values?

Bianca: To me, “familia” represents a trusted support system, individuals you can rely on through both personal and professional challenges. It embodies the sense of community, encouragement, and shared purpose that NALHE fosters among its members.

Andrea: Familia is at the heart of NALHE. It means connection, belonging, and unwavering support. It’s about showing up for one another — celebrating milestones, offering mentorship, and creating a legacy built on unity and pride. Within NALHE, familia is more than a word; it’s a shared value that drives our mission to uplift and empower each other, both personally and professionally.

Would you be open to sharing a short testimonial or quote?

Bianca: Be open to every opportunity, no matter how small, it may hold a lesson that shapes your future. I began my career as a call center representative, moved into front desk operations, and gradually advanced through roles as an administrative assistant, supervisor, and now manager. Embracing new responsibilities with confidence, even when I was the only person in the room who looked like me, has been key to my growth.

Andrea: One of the most important things to do in life, in my opinion, is to help someone else's dream become a reality. I believe it is a privilege and an obligation to support others in achieving their desired success. When someone is new to the field and just starting out, it can be daunting. There is usually so much to learn and understand that having someone to support and encourage us on our way is essential. So pay it forward, in other words when you get to the top floor, send the elevator back down for someone else.

NOV. 2025

THRIVE

UPCOMING Q4 EVENTS 1 ACHE - TENC 2025

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP & NETWORKING EVENT November 13, 2025 5:30 - 7:30 PM EDT Carolina Brewery 460 W Franklin St Chapel Hill, NC 27516

2 C-SUITE ROUNDTABLE UNC HEALTH WAYNE January 21, 2026 8:00 - 9:30 AM EDT UNC Health Wayne Hospital 2700 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC

Click here to visit our Events page for upcoming opportunities.

November 2025 Quarter 3| Page 20

QUARTER 3

NATIONAL NEWS The Decentralization of Public Health Recommendations

Island.While states are taking on a larger role, federal advisory bodies seem to be taking a step back, with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices indefinitely postponing its planned October 22nd meeting to October 23rd. 3

On September 3rd, three states, California, Oregon, and Washington, announced they would form a coalition called the West Coast Health Alliance.

The next day, Hawaii joined as the fourth member. In a joint statement, the inaugural members stated, “The West The Responsible Use of AI in Coast Health Alliance stands united in Healthcare protecting public health and always On September 17th, the Joint putting safety before politics.”

Commission and the Coalition for Health AI (CHAI) released guidance on This announcement comes during flu the Responsible Use of AI in season, with immunizations as the Healthcare. The guidance is intended focus of their first joint to promote shared understanding and recommendation. The guidance, addressing COVID-19, Influenza, and responsible deployment of AI tools.

Guidance was based on frameworks RSV, and sets a more rigorous standard than the Advisory Committee from groups such as CHAI, the National Academy of Medicine, and the on Immunization Practices. In the Bipartisan House Task Force Report statement, the WCHA reiterates, on Artificial Intelligence.4 “Immunization is safe, effective, and the best protection available against The Joint Commission specifically respiratory viruses.” The scope of the identifies that the guidance is not WCHA continues to grow, with work intended to direct the development or groups focusing on vaccines, labs, validation of AI tools. The guidance, emergency preparedness, and however, identifies 7 Elements of surveillance.

Responsible Use of AI in Healthcare (RUAIH). These include Policy and The West Coast is no longer alone in Governance Structures, Patient this pursuit, following the announcement by the Northeast Public Privacy and Transparency, Data Security and Protection, Quality Health Collaborative on September monitoring, Reporting of Safety18th. This coalition includes Related Events, Risk and Bias Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Assessment, as well as Education and New Jersey, New York State, New Training. 4 York City, Pennsylvania,, and Rhode

The guidance outlines indicates that Joint Commission intends to use this document as the foundation for community and resource-informed “Responsible Use AI Playbooks.” 4 Federal Shutdowns History and Their Impact On October 1, the federal government shut down. This is the 5th major government shutdown since 1981. In peer countries, we do not see this occur.

In the short term, budget continuations allow the process to play out, and in the longer term, a vote of no confidence triggers elections. 5 Utilization of government shutdowns as a political tool is not uncommon. The last instance of a shutdown was used to force a change to health care legislation in 2013. The key issue at the time was the Affordable Care Act, which led to a 16-day shutdown and no changes to the law. In 2018, we saw a 35-day shutdown over the construction of a wall on the southern US border. This again was unsuccessful.

The minority state the outcome may be different this time. The reasoning supporting this position is rooted in preserving benefits rather than additional spending or stripping away benefits.6

References 1.Following Trump’s politicization of CDC, West Coast states issue unified vaccine recommendations — California breaks from future federal guidance with new law 2.Amid Confusion Over US Vaccine Recommendations, States Try To ‘Restore Trust’ 3.Several Northeastern States and America’s Largest City Announce the Northeast Public Health Collaborative 4.AI, Data Analytics & Research 5.A Brief History of U.S. Government Shutdowns 6.Shutdowns, Obamacare and the Risks of Bargaining for Policy Wins in a Crisis

November 2025 Quarter 3| Page 21

Credits Creative Directors

Contributing Writers

Christian Bergevin, UNC Health Dolapo Busuyi, ECU Health Holly Harris, UNC Chapel Hill Isabelle Murphy, UNC Chapel Hill Babar Iqbal, UNC Chapel Hill Matt Gitzinger, FACHE, UNC Health Alliance Vi-Anne Antrum, FACHE, Cone Health Kishan Shah, Duke Health Christian Bergevin, UNC Health Dolapo Busuyi, ECU Health Holly Harris, UNC Chapel Hill

President President-Elect Immediate Past President Treasurer Secretary

Matt Gitzinger, FACHE, UNC Health Alliance Trent Beach, FACHE, UNC Health Tom Hughes, FACHE, WakeMed Health & Hospitals Paul Marini, FACHE, UNC Orthopedics Nina Ziemba, FACHE, UnitedHealth Group

President Advisory Council

Tom Hughes, FACHE, WakeMed Health & Hospitals Ana-Elis Perry, FACHE, UNC Health Katie Troxler, FACHE, Duke Health Swati Bhardwaj, FACHE, Southern Atlantic Healthcare Alliance Emily Greene, FACHE, Duke Health

2025 Committee Chairs

Ashley Mahan, UNC Health Paul Marini, UNC Orthopedics Margarita Khosh, Commerce Bank Jessica McGee, FACHE, UNC Health Susan Gueiss, FACHE, Duke Health Integrated Practice Savannah Stallings, Duke Health Kishan Shah, Duke Health Euniqua Bullock, Duke Hospital Timothy Stapleton, HonorBridge Jennifer Woody, UNC Health Brian Cocks, Baxter International Inc. David Long, FACHE, ECU Health THRIVE www.thefnc.org

November 2025 Quarter 3| Page 22

Thank you to our Sponsors GOLD

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Sponsors play a critical role in facilitating the professional development of healthcare leaders in the region.

For additional information, contact sponsorship@ACHE - TENCnc.org 2025 Sponsorship Chair: Brian Cocks November 2025 Quarter 3| Page 23

ENGAGE WITH TENC ON SOCIAL MEDIA Follow TENC on social media platforms and tag us in your ACHE-TENC related posts.

Be sure to visit us frequently on our website for event details and program updates!

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November 2025 Quarter 3 | Page 24

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE!

We're proud to debut our revamped website, designed to be your dynamic hub for leadership, networking, and growth. Whether you're advancing your career or driving impact in your community, this digital space brings ACHE TENC mission to life!

With over 1,000 members across central and eastern NC, ACHE - TENC is a force for change, and now it's easier than ever to connect and engage.

Explore the new experience at www.thefnc.org Thank you to our ACHE - TENC Board of Directors and the Communications Committee for their contributions to this transition!

November 2025 Quarter 3 | Page 25

NOV. 2025

THRIVE

QUARTER 3