News
Explore the latest happenings in the MHA program
The students and faculty of the Master of Health Administration program are active in a variety of initiatives outside of the classroom. These include volunteer events, case competitions and much more.
2024
June 2024
Members of the UIW MHA Class of 2025 visited the Texas State Capitol as part of their summer Health Law course taught by Professor Joseph Topinka. Professor Topinka’s idea for the visit was to give students a firsthand look at how laws are made in Texas and how Texas fits within the overall concept of federalism in the United States. 
Special thanks to Ike Okoye, Policy Advisor, for State Sen. Donna Campbell, M.D. Mr. Okoye met with students individually in Sen. Campbell’s office addressing the reality of making laws when the legislature meets every two years. Between the tour of the Capitol and Mr. Okoye’s presentation, the MHA students had a fun but educational day at the state capitol in Austin.
May 2024
UIW’s MHA Program welcomed a new member to its MHA Executive Advisory Board. The newest member, Stephen Araiza, is the Director of Practice Operations at the School of Health Professions, UT Health Science Center in San Antonio, TX. Stephen is also a UIW graduate from the MHA Class of 2019. He served as the first president of the MHA Alumni Association and is responsible for its successful formation. He joined the other Executive Advisory Board members for their semi-annual meeting held on May 23, 2024.
The other MHA Executive Advisory Board members include Jeff Cowart (President, SVP Strategies, LLC), Paco Gonzaba (Gonzaba Medical Group), Dr. Ike Pauli (President and CEO, Northeast Pediatrics Association), Dr. Carlos Moreno (Vice President and Chief of Clinical Affairs, CommuniCare Health Centers), Alvin Loewenberg (Former CEO, Morningside Ministries), Mary Garr (President and CEO, Family Service), and Karla Strawn (Chief of Patient Administration Services, South Texas Veterans Health Care System – San Antonio).
May 2024
The MHA Program held is 3rd annual MHA Educational Symposium on May 20 for the MHA Class of 2025 (pictured below) and MHA alumni.
Friday’s event included several guest speakers. Dawn Idar (pictured on the left), a Senior Nurse Methods Analyst (NMA) at the South Texas Veterans Healthcare System, presented on the process of expanding services, specifically the VA opening a new clinic.
Chris Sloan (pictured on the right with Dr. Nesser, MHA Program Director), the previous Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Graduate Medical Education at the Texas Vista Medical Center, San Antonio, spoke of the process of shutting down a facility, a process just as complex as opening a new one.
Taylor Ridge (pictured below), the Assistant Director of Public Health Informatics at University Health, discussed health equity and the social determinants of health and the use of health informatics.
Additional speakers included Dr. Byron Hunter, Executive Director at JPS Health Network, who spoke on implementing DEI practices in the workplace, and Dr. Kevin Milligan of UIW Mental Health Services, who covered mental health services and how to gain resiliency.
May 2024
The MHA Class of 2024 celebrated the end of their 21-month program with multiple events.
They enjoyed a luncheon with a special guest speaker: Shan Bagby, Brigadier General, USA (Ret).
UIW's Military and Veterans Center hosted a celebratory event as well. The MHA program had several military and veterans graduating who attended this event.
That evening the cohort celebreated with their faculty and family at a celebration dinner where awards and recognitions were presented.
Fourteen students were awarded the Upsilon Phi Delta Honors for maintaining a GPA of 3.9 or higher. Additional awards included two students receiving the honor graduate award and two students the peer award.
The next day, May 11, the MHA Class of 2024 attended commencement! Congratulations MHA Cardinals!
March 2024
Terrelle Ramsey, MHA Class of 2025 and the residential class president, was awarded the prestigious national CAHME/Tim Campbell Scholarship for Selfless Service to Others and the Community. The scholarship of $3,000, named for Tim Campbell, a CAHME board member who personified a commitment to service and volunteerism, is award annually to a student who embodies a spirit of volunteerism and service that helps others. Terrelle was formally recognized during an awards ceremony at the annual American College of Healthcare Executives Congress on Leadership held in Chicago this month. Congratulations, Terrelle!
March 2024
Chicago, IL – In a remarkable showcase of talent and dedication, nine students from the University of the Incarnate Word's (UIW) Master of Health Administration (MHA) program made their mark at the prestigious American College of Healthcare Executive's (ACHE) 67th annual Congress on Healthcare Leadership, held in the vibrant city of Chicago.
The ACHE Congress on Healthcare Leadership is renowned for its comprehensive program, offering attendees unparalleled opportunities for professional development, networking and insight into the future of healthcare. The event featured an impressive lineup of nationally recognized speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront of discussions on healthcare management, policy and practice.
Among the hundreds of participants, the UIW MHA students stood out for their active engagement and contributions to the conference. Several of these ambitious students were competitively selected for the prestigious student ambassador program, an honor that provided them with a unique opportunity to interact closely with healthcare leaders, gain behind-the-scenes experience in conference management, and represent their university at a national level.
The selection of UIW MHA students for the student ambassador program speaks volumes about the quality and potential of the university's health administration program. It underscores the institution's commitment to preparing future healthcare leaders who are not only equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills but also with the passion and dedication to make a positive impact in the field.
The conference also served as a platform for the students to explore the latest trends and challenges in healthcare, engage in meaningful discussions and connect with potential mentors and employers. From keynote addresses to breakout sessions, the event covered a wide range of topics, including technological advancements in healthcare, policy reform, leadership strategies and the future of healthcare delivery.
2023
November 2023
In a demonstration of strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving, a team from the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) Master of Health Administration (MHA) program participated in the Gulf Coast Medical Group Management Association (GC-MGMA) Case Competition. This participation not only highlighted the university's commitment to real-world healthcare challenges but also underscored the depth of knowledge and adaptability of its students, especially in the critical area of cybersecurity within healthcare settings.
Picture (left to right): Terrelle Ramsey, MHA ’25; Zoe Zucha, MHA ’24; Dr. Alan Jones, Assistant Professor; Sherie Yoon, MHA ’24; Gina Gibbons, MHA ‘24
The UIW team, composed of MHA students Sherie Yoon, Zoe Zucha, Gina Gibbons, all projected to graduate in 2024, and Terrelle Ramsey, set to graduate in 2025, was faced with a timely and complex challenge. They were tasked with developing a comprehensive business plan for an ambulatory surgical center that had recently been victimized by a cyber-attack. The objective was not only to mitigate the damage caused by this incident but also to devise a robust system to prevent future cyber threats.
Addressing Cybersecurity in Healthcare: A Timely Challenge
The challenge presented to the UIW team is reflective of a growing concern in the healthcare industry: cybersecurity. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies for medical records, patient care, and administrative functions, healthcare facilities are becoming prime targets for cyber-attacks. These incidents can lead to significant financial losses, damage to reputation, and, most critically, risks to patient safety and privacy.
UIW's Strategic Approach
The UIW team approached this challenge with a comprehensive strategy that integrated technical, operational, and educational components. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity, their business plan proposed a combination of state-of-the-art security technologies, such as enhanced encryption and multi-factor authentication, along with a rigorous employee training program on cybersecurity best practices. Furthermore, they recommended the establishment of a rapid response team dedicated to identifying and mitigating cyber threats in real time.
A key aspect of their proposal was the emphasis on creating a culture of cybersecurity awareness within the organization. This involved regular updates and drills to prepare the staff for potential cyber incidents, ensuring that cybersecurity is not just a concern for the IT department but a shared responsibility across the organization.
Implications for the Future of Healthcare Management
Participating in the GC-MGMA Case Competition allowed the UIW MHA team to showcase their understanding of the critical issues facing healthcare management today. Their response to the cybersecurity challenge demonstrates the importance of incorporating IT security into the broader framework of health administration. As future healthcare leaders, the ability to navigate the complex landscape of digital threats will be essential for ensuring the safety, privacy, and trust of patients and staff alike.
October 2023
In an impressive showcase of strategic insight and innovative thinking, the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) clinched third place at the esteemed Penn State Health Policy and Administration Case Competition. This notable achievement underscores UIW’s commitment to excellence in health administration education and highlights the remarkable talent of its students in addressing complex healthcare challenges.
The UIW Master of Health Administration (MHA) team was represented by a trio of dedicated and insightful students: Jiwon Yang and Yudamis Rodriguez, both set to graduate in 2024, and Pontea Allen, who is expected to complete her degree in 2025. Together, they tackled a demanding case that resonated with the real-world challenges facing healthcare facilities today.
The Challenge: Enhancing Inpatient Capacity
The competition centered around a critical and timely issue – enhancing inpatient capacity at the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (HMC) without the addition of more beds or compromising the quality of care. HMC, a 632-bed acute care facility, is situated in Hershey, Pennsylvania, affectionately known as the "sweetest place on earth." This challenge required a deep understanding of healthcare operations, strategic planning and innovative thinking to improve patient throughput and hospital efficiency under stringent constraints.
UIW’s Strategy for Success
The UIW team approached the challenge with a multifaceted strategy that leveraged technology, process improvement and patient flow management to enhance HMC's inpatient capacity. Their proposal emphasized the importance of optimizing existing resources, streamlining patient admissions and discharge processes, and employing data analytics to predict patient flow and manage capacity dynamically. By focusing on efficiency and the strategic use of technology, the team proposed a solution that promised to meet the competition's criteria without the need for physical expansion of the facility.
A Testament to Collaborative Learning and Interdisciplinary Approach
The participation and success of the UIW MHA team in the Penn State Health Policy and Administration Case Competition are testaments to the university's emphasis on collaborative learning and an interdisciplinary approach to health administration. The competition not only provided the students with a platform to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world problems but also fostered teamwork, critical thinking and strategic planning skills essential for future healthcare leaders.
A Proud Moment for UIW
Securing third place among a competitive field of participants from various prestigious institutions is a significant accomplishment for both the students and the University of the Incarnate Word. This achievement highlights the quality of UIW’s MHA program and its faculty's dedication to preparing students to become innovative healthcare leaders. The university community celebrates the team’s success, recognizing their hard work, innovative ideas, and the positive representation they have provided for UIW on a national stage.
As healthcare continues to evolve, the need for leaders who can navigate complex challenges and drive improvements in care delivery becomes ever more critical. The performance of the UIW MHA team at the Penn State competition demonstrates the program’s effectiveness in nurturing such leaders and contributing positively to the future of healthcare administration.
September 2023
Students from the University of the Incarnate Word's Master of Health Administration (MHA) program recently attended the Student Symposium organized by the South Texas Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (STC-ACHE). Held at the WellMed Corporate Headquarters, the symposium provided a platform for students to engage with industry leaders, gain invaluable insights and network with professionals and peers alike.
Picture (left to right): David Haugh, MHA ’24; Jiwon Yang, MHA ’24; Kalpana Mishra, MHA ’24; Sherie Yoon, MHA ’24; Logan Talbott, MHA ‘24
The day's agenda was planned to offer a blend of educational and networking opportunities. The STC-ACHE president provided a warm welcome to all attendees. It set the stage for a day filled with learning and professional development.
One of the highlights of the symposium was the panel discussion on "Career Positioning: Strategically Mapping Your Early Career." This session offered students a roadmap to navigate the early stages of their healthcare careers strategically, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to position themselves effectively in the competitive healthcare industry.
Following the first panel, attendees enjoyed a lunch and networking session, allowing them to connect with healthcare executives and fellow students in a more informal setting. It was an excellent opportunity for participants to discuss career aspirations, share experiences, and build professional relationships.
Picture (left to right): Moliere Pierre, MHA ’25; Alejandra Villarreal, MHA ’25; Kimberly Trevino, MHA ’25; Sabeha Basheeruddin, MHA ’25; Terrelle Ramsey, MHA ’25; Ikponmwonsa Iredia, MHA ‘25
The afternoon session focused on "Developing Mentoring and Coaching Skills." This panel addressed the importance of mentorship and coaching in personal and professional development, emphasizing how these skills can be cultivated to support career growth and leadership in healthcare.
The symposium concluded with professional headshots and networking. This allowed students to get professional headshots taken, an essential tool for their career toolkit, while providing one final networking opportunity to connect with industry professionals and peers.
The STC-ACHE Student Symposium was a pivotal experience for UIW MHA students. It underscored the importance of early career planning, the value of mentorship, and the power of networking in the healthcare industry. The knowledge and connections gained at the symposium are sure to serve these aspiring healthcare leaders well as they continue their journey toward becoming the next generation of healthcare executives.
May 2023
The UIW MHA program held their annual educational symposium that not only marked a significant milestone for its students but also set a benchmark for healthcare education. Conducted at the UIW Broadway Campus's Student Engagement Center Ballroom, this event spans two insightful days and brings together both the residential and online students. Designed specifically for MHA students following their first year of studies, the symposium aimed to enrich their educational journey with practical insights, networking opportunities and a deep dive into the complexities of healthcare management.
A Day of Learning and Networking
The first day began with a networking session, setting the tone for a day filled with engaging discussions and presentations. This was followed by a series of presenters that included Larissa Bueno (MHA Class of 2019) from ABC Health Care, who enlightened the attendees on Medicaid and Home Health and Erika Ramirez, Senior Director of Health Policy at the Texas Hospital Association, who further delved into critical health policy issues. Students were then able to network over lunch. The afternoon speakers included Wayne Young, CEO of Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD in Houston, sharing his expertise on managing a mental health organization and Dr. Kevin Millgan from UIW Mental H
ealth Services who spoke about mental health services and resiliency. Christopher Sandles, President of Hospital Operations at University Health in San Antonio, provided insights into hospital operations and Kara Lindeman (MHA Class of 2020) from WellMed Medical Management presented on the Managed Care Health Delivery Model. The event concluded with a social event featuring nationally renown Diane Gottsman, who spoke on Cocktail Party Etiquette.
A Day of Service and Reflection
The following day started with the MHA students and faculty convening at the San Antonio Ronald McDonald House Charities for a morning of giving back to the community. This activity underscored the program's commitment to community service and provided students with a hands-on opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the local community.
Post-service, the group moved to the UIW DataPoint Campus for lunch followed by an insightful alumni panel discussion on the future of healthcare administration and career advancement. The day also included discussions on post-graduate fellowships, a competency self-assessment, and feedback sessions, providing students a platform to reflect on their learning and prepare for their upcoming final year.
Empowering Future Healthcare Leaders
The UIW MHA Educational Symposium exemplified the program’s dedication to preparing students for the complexities of healthcare management. Through a blend of expert insights, practical experiences, and community engagement, the event empowered students to step into their roles as future healthcare leaders with confidence and competence.
This symposium not only enriched the participants' educational experience but also strengthened the UIW community's bonds, laying a solid foundation for their professional journeys in healthcare management. As these aspiring healthcare administrators move forward, the lessons learned and connections made during this event will undoubtedly influence their approach to healthcare leadership and management in their future endeavors.
May 2023
UIW celebrates the MHA Class of 2023 who graduated on May 6.
This cohort included both the residential class and an inaugural hybrid/online class of students. Congratulations, MHA Cardinals!
Pictured above is the first graduating class of MHA students from the Hybrid/Online modality. These students completed their degree virtually, attending class via Zoom two nights per week. They also attended three on-campus events during the 21-month program.
April 2023
The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) stood out at the prestigious 2023 CLARION Case Competition held at the University of Minnesota, marking a significant milestone in the institution's commitment to fostering interprofessional collaboration and education in healthcare. This annual competition, renowned for its emphasis on the development of interprofessional relationships among health professional students, provided a dynamic platform for participants from UIW to showcase their skills and innovative ideas.
The CLARION competition, dedicated to promoting experiential learning opportunities, encourages students from different health professions to collaborate and work as a team to solve complex healthcare issues. It aims at inspiring systems-level changes that are crucial for achieving health for all, aligning perfectly with UIW’s mission to prepare future healthcare leaders who are not only skilled in their respective fields but also equipped to work collaboratively in interprofessional teams.
Representing UIW at this competitive event were four exceptional students: Sherie Yoon and Elmer Adame, both pursuing their Master of Health Administration (MHA) and set to graduate in 2024; Hanna Ghazawi, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) candidate for 2023; and Joav Gomez, on track to complete his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) in 2023. This diverse team underscored the importance of integrating various health disciplines to foster a comprehensive approach to healthcare challenges.
The team from UIW engaged in an intense preparation regime, working closely with faculty advisors to hone their skills and deepen their understanding of the case study presented. Their project was not just a testament to their academic excellence but also to their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical, real-world health issues. Their collaborative effort demonstrated a commitment to innovation, teamwork and a shared vision of enhancing healthcare delivery systems.
At the heart of the competition, the UIW team presented their analysis and proposed solutions to a complex case that required a multidisciplinary approach. Through their presentation, they showcased their critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and their capacity to integrate knowledge across different health professions. Their efforts reflected the university’s educational philosophy, which emphasizes holistic development, ethical considerations, and the importance of teamwork in healthcare.
The participation of UIW in the 2023 CLARION Case Competition not only provided a valuable learning experience for the students involved but also raised the institution's profile in the realm of health education. It highlighted the university's dedication to advancing interprofessional education and collaboration, essential components in the evolving landscape of healthcare.
By fostering an environment where future healthcare professionals can develop the skills necessary for collaborative practice, UIW is contributing to the creation of a healthcare workforce that is better equipped to address the complexities of patient care in a holistic and integrated manner. The success and experiences of the UIW team at the CLARION competition serve as an inspiration to their peers and a testament to the potential impact of interprofessional collaboration on improving health outcomes for communities worldwide.
March 2023
Chicago, IL – In a remarkable showcase of talent and dedication, eight students from the University of the Incarnate Word's (UIW) Master of Health Administration (MHA) program made their mark at the prestigious American College of Healthcare Executive's (ACHE) 66th annual Congress on Healthcare Leadership. This year's conference, held in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, was a melting pot of ideas, innovation, and leadership, drawing participants from across the nation to engage with some of the most pressing issues in healthcare today.
The ACHE Congress on Healthcare Leadership is renowned for its comprehensive program, offering attendees unparalleled opportunities for professional development, networking, and insight into the future of healthcare. The event featured an impressive lineup of nationally recognized speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront of discussions on healthcare management, policy, and practice.
Among the hundreds of participants, the UIW MHA students stood out for their active engagement and contributions to the conference. Several of these ambitious students were competitively selected for the prestigious student ambassador program, an honor that provided them with a unique opportunity to interact closely with healthcare leaders, gain behind-the-scenes experience in conference management, and represent their university at a national level.
"The opportunity to attend and participate in the ACHE Congress has been an invaluable experience for all of us," said Gina Gibbons, one of the selected student ambassadors. "Not only did we get the chance to learn from and network with some of the most influential figures in healthcare, but we were also able to bring back a wealth of knowledge and ideas to our peers and community."
The selection of UIW MHA students for the student ambassador program speaks volumes about the quality and potential of the university's health administration program. It underscores the institution's commitment to preparing future healthcare leaders who are not only equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills but also with the passion and dedication to make a positive impact in the field.
The conference also served as a platform for the students to explore the latest trends and challenges in healthcare, engage in meaningful discussions, and connect with potential mentors and employers. From keynote addresses to breakout sessions, the event covered a wide range of topics, including technological advancements in healthcare, policy reform, leadership strategies, and the future of healthcare delivery.
As the ACHE 66th annual Congress on Healthcare Leadership concluded, the UIW MHA students returned home inspired and motivated, with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of their role in shaping the future of healthcare. Their participation in such a significant event not only highlights the strengths of the UIW MHA program but also sets a high bar for future students aspiring to make their mark in the healthcare industry.
January 2023
Students from the MHA Class of 2024 attended the American College of Healthcare Executives Landscape Conference in San Antonio.
This event provided an opportunity for students to gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving healthcare industry. Notably, attendees were awarded continuing education credits for their participation.
The conference featured informative panels, with a focus on two key topics: Disruptive Innovation in Healthcare Delivery and Understanding Implicit Bias. Experts from prominent organizations such as the Texas Hospital Association, the American Hospital Association, and the ACHE Chairman, Delvecchio Finley, shared their expertise and perspectives on these critical issues.
2022
August 2022
UIW’s MHA Program welcomes another valuable member to their Executive Advisory Board. Karla Strawn is the Chief of Patient Administration Services at the South Texas Veterans Health Care System here in San Antonio, where she has served for the past 15 years. She has also served as a Health System Specialist in Geriatrics & Extended Care, and as a Systems and Procedures Analyst where she analyzed trend data. She is an alumna of Trinity University's healthcare administration graduate program and a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives. UIW’s MHA Program Executive Advisory Board consists of senior executives who currently or previously served in healthcare leadership positions, across a variety of healthcare settings, including group medical practices, hospitals, health systems, healthcare consulting, and long-term care organizations. They meet semi-annually with the MHA Program Faculty to review the program’s strategic plans, curriculum, and annual goal achievement, providing valuable insight into current practices in healthcare.
July 2022
Alberto Ornelas, MHA Class of 2023, was awarded the prestigious national Albert W. Dent Student Scholarship worth $5,000. The Foundation of the American College of Healthcare Executives established this scholarship in honor of Albert W. Dent, the first African American Fellow of ACHE. This scholarship is awarded annually to racially/ethnically diverse students, who are excelling in their graduate program in health administration. Scholarship applicants must submit an essay on their reason for pursuing a career in healthcare management / your career aspirations and goals and have a history of community service. Albert Ornelas will be formally recognized in the November/December 2022 issue of Healthcare Executives for this award, as well as in Executive News. Congratulations, Albert!
June 2022
Seven MHA students from the Class of 2023 were selected for highly competitive summer internships. Three students were selected for summer internships with CHRISTUS Health: Alberto Ornelas (CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital - Westover Hills, Eduardo Morales (CHRISTUS Children’s Hospital of San Antonio), and Madison Angelito (CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – San Marcos). MHA students from the MHA residential program were able to accept summer internships outside of San Antonio due to the flexibility of UIW’s new online MHA program, enabling them to take their summer courses virtually while outside of San Antonio. Four students received internships outside of San Antonio, a first for UIW’s MHA program: Shafeeq Virani was selected for an internship with Children’s Health in Dallas, Aashika Ashok at Abbott Northwestern in Minneapolis, MN, Pooja Lehigh Valley Health in Allentown, PA, and Bryan Salvador at AnMed Health in Anderson, South Carolina. Congratulations to all the interns!
May 2022
The MHA Program’s first annual MHA Educational Symposium was held May 20-21. The event is required for MHA students and is open to MHA alumni. Friday’s event included several guest speakers. Michael Goldberg, Previous President of Northwell Health’s Long Island Jewish Medical Center flew in from New York and presented on Social Media Marketing for Healthcare Organizations. Chris Sloan, Chief Operating Officer of Texas Vista Medical Center, San Antonio, shared his experiences as a healthcare administrator, giving students inspiration as they embark on a career. Major Rick Benson, U.S. Army (Retired) shared his career-long expertise in supply chain management and the challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kara Lindeman, UIW MHA Class of 2020 and Project Manager at WellMed, presented on project management and the healthcare-managed care model. The two-day event included an alumni panel discussion, a student/alumni social gathering, and a community service event at Haven for Hope.
Pictures (left to right): Dr. Chris Nesser (MHA Program Director) and Chris Sloan; Dr. Nesser and Michael Goldberg
May 2022
UIW’s MHA Program welcomed a new member to its Executive Advisory Board. The newest member, Francisco "Paco" Gonzaba, is the Executive Director of Business Operations at the Gonzaba Medical Group. The Gonzaba Medical Group was founded in 1960 by Dr. Bill Gonzaba and has a team of more than 90 physicians, hospitalists, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. They serve patients at eight locations across the city of San Antonio.
UIW MHA Executive Advisory Board Members attend the semi-annual meeting of the board. Picture (left to right): Jeff Cowart (President, SVP Strategies, LLC), Paco Gonzaba (Gonzaba Medical Group), Dr. Ike Pauli (President and CEO, Northeast Pediatrics Association), Dr. Carlos Moreno (Vice President and Chief of Clinical Affairs, CommuniCare Health Centers), Alvin Loewenberg (Former CEO, Morningside Ministries), and Mary Garr (President and CEO, Family Service)
April 2022
An interprofessional team of UIW students competed at the University of Minnesota’s Annual CLARION Case Competition. The competition is hosted by UM’s Center for Health Interprofessional Programs (CHIP) and focuses on collaboration among health professionals. UIW Interprofessional team was represented by the School of Pharmacy and the H-E-B School of Business MHA program. “The students did a great job representing UIW and I am so very proud of them,” stated Dr. Alan Jones, MHA Associate Professor who served as their faculty advisor for this competition.
Picture (left to right): Chris Franklin (MHA), Erika Durant (Pharmacy), and Alberto Ornelas (MHA)
March 2022
Three UIW MHA teams were selected to advance to the second round, and competed in Trinity University’s virtual Healthcare PRISm Pitch Competition on Feb. 2 and 3, presenting their innovative solutions to some of healthcare’s most challenging problems. Team MHA Card consisted of Amy Nessen, Gillian Hansen, and Audie Tacito; Team NICU Milkmaker consisted of Madelyn Jordan, Getsy, Prabakar, and Antwanisha Riddle; and Team Transform consisted of Sarah Benni, Ruben Colon, and Gerardo Trejo. The Healthcare PRISm Pitch Competition takes students on a design thinking journey that emphasizes problem-solving and produces solutions fueled by empathy, problem-focused, fostered by creativity, and informed through feedback. The UIW MHA students begin preparing for the competition as part of their Leadership in Healthcare course in the Fall of 2021 and their Healthcare Marketing course in the Spring of 2022. The teams continued to perfect their innovative products and pitch throughout their Healthcare Marketing course, which concluded with all teams competing in the UIW MHA Cardinal Cage Pitch Competition on March 24th. Five UIW MHA Alumni judged the Cardinal Cage Pitch Competition.
Picture (left to right): Stephen Araiza (judge, Class of 2019, and MHA Alumni Association President), Larissa Garza (judge, Class of 2019), Getsy Prabakar (winning team), Antwanisha Riddle (winning team), Brant Kelley (judge, Class of 2019), Madelyn Jordan (winning team), Nick Sanchez (judge, Class of 2019), and Miranda Rodriguez (judge, Class of 2020).
February 2022
Three first-year MHA students, Bryan Salvador, Aashika Ashok, and Shafeeq Virani participated in UAB’s Health Administration Case Competition with Dr. Akbar Ghiasi, MHA Associate Professor, serving as their faculty adviser. This competition is limited to graduate students from CAHME-accredited programs and provides participants an opportunity to put what they have learned into practice with a real-life, real-time case. Graduate student teams travel to Birmingham, Alabama every year to present their recommendations before a national panel of judges.
Picture (left to right): Bryan Salvador, Aashika Ashok, Dr. Akbar Ghiasi, and Shafeeq Virani
2021
December 2021
Joe Topinka who teaches Health Law in the MHA Program was awarded the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) South Texas Chapter Founder’s Medal of Honor. This prestigious award recognizes an individual who has been actively involved in HFMA for at least three years after earning the Muncie Gold Award, has provided significant service at the chapter, regional and/or national level in at least two of those years, and remains a member in good standing. Congratulations, Professor Topinka!
December 2021
Rosalinda Sanchez Moncada, MHA Class of 2023, has been selected to be the inaugural recipient of the 2021-2022 Gonzaba Endowed Scholarship for Healthcare Leadership and Innovation in Health Administration. Dr. Chris Nesser, UIW’s Director of the Graduate Program in Health Administration, led an award ceremony, held on December 6, to honor Dr. Gonzaba’s generous $50,000 donation to establish the endowment and to recognize Rosalinda as the first scholarship recipient. Congratulations, Rosalinda!
Picture (left to right): Rosalinda Sanchez Moncada, Dr. Bill Gonzaba, and Dr. Chris Nesser
November 2021
A team of three MHA students, Bryan Salvador, Erika Zachary, and Aashika Ashok competed on November 6th in the Gulf Coast MGMA Case Competition, which was held virtually this year. The team had to develop a business plan to develop an effective recruitment and retention plan for a healthcare organization that has been affected by medical staff burnout and shortages due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The student team delivered their presentation virtually to a panel of practitioner judges.
October 2021
Dr. Lynn Downs, MHA associate professor and internship coordinator, was recognized for her years of service and contributions to the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), being awarded the ACHE Recognition Award for Distinguished Service. ACHE is the premier professional society for leaders dedicated to advancing health. With over 48,000 members, ACHE strives to advance the healthcare leadership of each member through education, service, and volunteerism. The ACHE Recognition Award for Distinguished Service recognizes individual contributions to healthcare management excellence through volunteer service to the chapter, ACHE National, and to the healthcare profession.
Dr. Downs, who is a Fellow in ACHE, served as Regent for Central and South Texas Chapters from 2019 through 2021, a nationally held position. She also served at the local level as the South Texas ACHE Chapter vice president, president, and Chapter Mentorship Chairman. Additionally, she served on the Volunteer Giving Committee from 2019-2021, as a judge for the ACHE Stull Student Essay Competition in Healthcare from 2019-2021, and she has been a member of the Health Administration Press Editorial Board since 2019.
This award is significant as it recognizes the numerous volunteer activities that members, such as Dr. Downs, participate in daily that often go without any recognition or acknowledgment of such service. Each of these service activities is time-consuming and neither the National ACHE nor local ACHE Chapter survives without volunteers who provide numerous service hours over the years.
Despite the full-time and time-consuming workload of serving as a faculty member of a CAHME-accredited program, Dr. Downs still finds time to contribute greatly to the healthcare profession through service. Dr. Downs indicates “I volunteer my service because I want to give back to my professional healthcare organization and community and help students and early careerists as they learn and grow in the healthcare profession.” And indeed, her efforts contribute to UIW MHA students’ participation in ACHE and other nationally recognized health administration professional associations. Congratulations, Dr. Downs!
October 2021
The UIW MHA program competed in the 2021 Penn State Health Administration Case Competition. The University was represented by two teams: (1) 1st Year Residential; and (2) 1st Year Hybrid/Online. The team’s faculty mentor, Dr. Akbar Ghiasi, was very impressed with the team’s performance. Both teams finished among the Top 5 in their division. The Penn State competition is an invite-only competition for 1st year MHA students in a CAHME-accredited program. Way to go MHA Cardinals!
Pictured (left to right): Pooja Naik and Charisma Muller (MHA Hybrid/Online Team) and Rosalinda Sanchez Moncada, Erika Zachary, and Alokananda Mukherjee (MHA Residential Team)
August 2021
The UIW MHA Hybrid/Online MHA has officially kicked off! The CAHME-accredited program uses a combination of in-person and virtual instruction. Dr. Chris Nesser, MHA Program Director, explained, “The Hybrid program allows graduate students from all over the U.S. to attend, remotely, UIW’s CAHME-accredited program via live class sessions, while attending 3 in-person events over the 21-month program.” “Planning for taking our MHA program virtually started back in 2018 and it is so exciting to reach additional students who would not otherwise be able to join in our residential program.” The inaugural class is scheduled to graduate in May of 2023.
June 2021
Drs. Lynn Downs and Chris Nesser, along with colleagues from Trinity University’s MHA program submitted the winning poster for this year’s annual meeting of the Association University of Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA). The poster, entitled, “Why Wait to Innovate? Finding a Different View of the PRISM,” describes the journey taken by the two MHA programs to develop innovative thinking and entrepreneurial skills in their MHA students.
2020
Two faculty in the Master of Health Administration program recently presented the Department’s innovative model for evaluating student competencies and program effectiveness at an international conference hosted by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA).
MHA Director Dr. Chris Nesser and Assistant Professor Dr. Lynn Downs illustrated the program’s competency evaluation model through a virtual poster presentation after the AUPHA conference was moved online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2019
The Master of Health Administration program at UIW was recently named a top pick for graduate health care administration programs for 2019-20 by HealthGrad.com.
HealthGrad.com researched programs at more than 70 universities across the country and ranked them based on the following categories: career preparation, differentiated approach to teaching, student expertise and experiential learning, value and flexibility of scheduling. The MHA program at UIW, offered by the H-E-B School of Business and Administration, was one of only 17 selected as a top pick.
The MHA program hosted its first distinguished speaker series on Jan. 23, 2019, with Dr. Michael Nowicki and Major General (RET) Rubenstein as the guest speakers.
Dr. Nowicki (pictured left) is a healthcare economics professor at Texas State University and current Regent for Central and South Texas for the American College of Healthcare Executives. General Rubenstein (pictured right) is a retired Army Medical Commander and past Chairman of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
MHA faculty member Dr. Lynn Downs was selected to serve on the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Council of Regents beginning in March 2019. She represents District 4, covering South and Central Texas.
As Regent, she will support both the Central and South Texas Chapters, the higher education network and others in the local healthcare community to deliver programs, products, and services to healthcare executives, faculty, students and stakeholders.
Lauren D. Navarro, a second-year student in the UIW Master of Health Administration program, recently placed third in a national essay contest hosted by the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Navarro's essay, titled "The Maternal Mortality Rate Disparity Between White and Black Mothers in the United States," earned a third-place finish in the ACHE Richard J. Stull Student Essay Competition.
The MHA class of 2020 volunteered at the THRIVE Homeless LGBTQ Youth Street Outreach Event on April 27, 2019.
The students set up booths, passed out food tickets and provided a kind ear to youth and adults struggling with homelessness in San Antonio.
MHA students from the class of 2019 and 2020 participated in the South Texas Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (STC-ACHE) Healthcare Landscape Conference.
The educational and networking event included presentations from Joseph J. Fifer, FHFMA, CPA, president and CEO, Healthcare Financial Management Association, and Dana A. Forgione, Ph.D., professor of accounting from the University of Texas at San Antonio, as well as panels on the following topics: Professional Associations and Their Impact on Health, and Behavioral Medicine: Approaches to Increase Value for the Organization and Meet Community Need.
Thirteen members of the UIW MHA Class of 2019 were recognized for their academic performance with their induction into Upsilon Phi Delta. The induction occurred at the UIW H-E-B School of Business and Administration annual Honors Convocation on April 7, 2019. The following students received this recognition: Myah Antwi, Stephen Araiza, Matthew Cortez, Cesar Costales, Jose Garcia, Shane Garduno, Larissa Garza, Mona Loordu, Sarah Lyons, Chloe, Mesa, Lauren Navarro, David Sanchez and Megliza Touchette.
Students are eligible for UPD induction if they achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.90 and fulfill their program’s annual community service requirement. UPD is a national honor society in health administration sponsored by the Association of University Programs in Health Administration. It recognizes, rewards and encourages academic excellence in the study of healthcare management and policy.
2018
Four students in the Master of Health Administration program were inducted into UPD in the spring of 2018.
The 2018 UPD inductees for UIW were Stephen Lane, Omar Basam Thannoun, Zahida Mahmood and Kyle Jenkins.
On Sept. 21, 2018, MHA students from the 2019 and 2020 classes attended an Educational Symposium hosted by the American College of Healthcare executives (ACHE), South Texas Chapter (STC) at St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX.
The symposium was focused on educational events for the student and early careerist. Two education panels titled “Strategically Mapping Your Early Career Development” and “Quality Management Systems” were offered providing 3 hours of educational credits. This event was attended by over 130 students and early careerists.
MHA students from the class of 2019 and 2020 attended the UIW Career Services Etiquette Dinner on Oct. 4, 2018. The event was held in the Student Engagement Center Ballroom.
Students had the opportunity to meet and learn from students in different programs during the cocktail hour, share a wonderful meal, and learn some basic dinner and business etiquette through an engaging guest speaker followed by a robust question and answer session. This was a great opportunity for students and sponsors alike.
On Oct. 9-12, 2018, three MHA students from the Class of 2019 participated in the Everett V. Fox Student Case Competition. The students – David N. Sanchez, Mona Loordu and Mona Antwi – represented the program well. MHA Director Dr. Forest Kim also attended the event. Although the team did not advance, the case competition was an excellent learning and networking opportunity.
The Case Competition was held annual at the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE) Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida. NAHSE is a non-profit association of Black health care executives founded in 1968 for the purpose of promoting the advancement and development of Black health care leaders, and elevating the quality of health care services rendered to minority and underserved communities.
2017
Seven students in the Master of Health Administration program were inducted into UPD in the spring of 2017.
The 2017 UPD inductees for UIW were Brittany Nicole Angelos, Stephen Phillip Gutierrez, Tiffany Gisela McLean, Magdilas Morales, Matthew Thomas Reyna, Antoniette Ruffino and Justin L. Smith.
Army Maj. Steven Gutierrez offered his time and expertise as part of group of volunteers providing free eye care to uninsured and under-privileged patients in Alamo, Texas.
More than 300 men, women and children were seen for routine examinations over the course of the three-day mission. More than $70,000 worth of professional fees and eyewear were dispensed at no charge to the patients.
A team of five students in the Master of Health Administration program won the Gulf Coast MGMA Case Competition Oct. 28, 2017, in Houston.
The team developed a behavioral health program that demonstrated an ability to engage patients, improve patient outcomes and provide cost-effectiveness for the organization, all while maintaining provider and patient satisfaction.