Member Newsletter – June 2025

   

ACHE Western Florida Chapter – Upcoming 2025 Events  
Upcoming Events:  
Strategically Mapping Your Early Career Development– June 25th, 5:00pm-6:30pm  
The Role Vision Plays in your Strategic Planning Process– July 11th, 12:00pm-1:30pm  
New Member Webinar– July 10th 12:00pm-1:00pm  
Food Pantry Volunteer: Crystal Lake– July 16th, 3:30pm-6:30pm  
New Member Webinar– July 23rd 5:00pm-6:00pm  
Mighty Mussels Networking Event– August 1st, 7:05pm (More information to come!)
Implementing Strategic Planning for Successful Operations– August 25th, 12:00-1:30pm
   
  FREE Register Here!  
 
  Register Here!    

  Register Here!    
 
Register Here!    
   
Join Us in Welcoming Our New Chapter Members!
Rachel Cipriano, MBA, MPH, James A Haley VA, Chief Clinical Nutrition Timothy Hembree, DO, Moffit Cancer Center, Chief Quality Officer Stacy L. Jones, Healthcare Administration Chelsea Nauta, MBA, LeanTaaS John P. Harding, EdD, MBA, FACHE, Florida Gulf Coast University, Assistant Professor Alia Merchant, AMR, EMT-B Alexander Angellakis, AdventHealth, Director of Mission and Ministry Michael A. Cohen, Student Neena McNeil Milijana Urgenovic-Petrovic, Moffit Cancer Center, Director of Clinical Research Operations Mopela Agboje, PhD, James A. Haley Veterans, Associate Chief Nurse Vito Meghnagi, Tampa General Hospital Rosa Arias, MD, HCA, AVP Matthew Barrezueta, Student Cameron A. Gutierrez, MBA, AdventHealth, Medical Staff Services Manager Palakkumar Patel, BS, MHA, Acres Pharmacy, Pharmacy Operations Manager Nancy Inanir, HCA, Director of Nursing Gwendolyn M. Popaditch, Tampa General Muma Children’s Hospital, Patient Navigator Colleen M. Park, FACHE, US Dept of Veterans Affairs, National Improvement Specialist Michael Pierce, MHA, HCA Kevin J. Schassler, BS, MHA, Optum Evymel Terron  
 

ACHE Regent Message – Spring 2025

First, I am grateful for your unwavering dedication and support as a healthcare leader. Your trust and vote for me to serve as your Regent means everything. I also want to warmly welcome the physician and nurse leaders who have joined our professional society and are committed to enhancing the health of their patients and communities. I’m excited to share some updates and deeply appreciate you reading my Spring 2025 Message.

2025 Congress on Healthcare Leadership

Thank you for making the 2025 Congress an incredible success! With over 7,200 attendees, we surpassed last year’s attendance by nearly 2,000 participants. This event offered invaluable educational and networking opportunities, empowering us to enhance our professional and personal skills.

We celebrated at vibrant student and alumni receptions for the University of Florida, the University of North Florida, and the University of South Florida. The remarkable turnout at the Florida Chapters meetup on Monday evening, sponsored by US Acute Care Solutions, exemplifies the strength of our united Florida community. A heartfelt thank you to my colleague Haroula Norden, FACHE, Regent for Florida – Eastern, for the sponsorship of US Acute Care Solutions!

Don’t miss the 2025 Congress Highlights video, general event photos, and the remarks from the Chair and award winners on the Congress Multimedia Page. Let’s continue to inspire and uplift each other on our journey forward!

Save the Date for Congress 2026 (Houston, TX)

Join us at the 2026 Congress on Healthcare Leadership, March 2–5, George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, TX.

ACHE Premier Sponsors

I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Premier Corporate Partners: Core Clinical PartnersExact SciencesGenentechGSKIntuitiveJLLLeanTaasQuest DiagnosticsRLDatix, and Sanofi.

Their unwavering commitment to our profession through educational opportunities inspires us all.

A special shout-out to Stephanie Drennen from Exact Sciences and Daren Alix from Quest for their remarkable support of the Northern and Western Florida Chapters.

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2024 New FACHEs

Congratulations to the 28 members of the North Florida and Western Florida Chapters who had their FACHE credentials conferred at the 2025 Congress. Your dedication to our profession and unwavering support for your patients and community are truly inspiring.

Stephanie S. Abbott, FACHE

Walid G. Abdalla, FACHE

Edreco B. Amos, DHA, FACHE

Selynto R. Anderson, PhD, FACHE

Terrie W. Andrews, PhD, FACHE

Abena Anyane-Yeboah, FACHE

LCDR Jessica T. Atterbury, FACHE

LeeAnn H. Barfield, PhD, APRN, FACHE

Corey D. Cooper, PharmD, FACHE

Lt Col Stuart Fillmore, FACHE

Marsha Hartline, DNP, RN, FACHE

Clayton Johnston, PharmD, FACHE

Earl Ned Hill, Jr., FACHE

Mary E. Maloney, FACHE

Joshua L. Mattson, FACHE

Kate McGonegal, FACHE

Aziza Nassar, MD, FACHE

Kenneth Ngo, MD, FACHE

Alice R. Nuttall, FACHE

Lana L. Palmquist, RN, FACHE

Tina M. Pugh, FACHE

Natalie C. Ryder, NE-BC, FACHE

Ralph D. Selner, FACHE

Sally Sims, PharmD, FACHE

David J. Skarupa, MD, FACHE

Logan J. Van Wagenen, FACHE

Justina L. Wells, FACHE

Kathryn H. Wittman, FACHE

You’re closer than you realize to earning your FACHE credential!

Elevate your career in healthcare management by becoming board certified and earning the esteemed title of Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). This prestigious credential is not just an endorsement of your leadership skills but a compelling testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence in the healthcare sector. 

Attaining this milestone will significantly enhance your professional credibility and position you as a leading figure in the ever-evolving healthcare field. We are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the FACHE application process, assisting you with the required structured interview and recommendations, and answering any questions you might have.

Don’t hesitate to reach out with any inquiries about the application process or to seek support. Your drive to succeed is truly inspiring, and we are wholeheartedly committed to your success on this transformative journey. Remember, you are not alone; we are here to champion your success at every turn!

Your journey toward success is incredibly important to us. Together, let’s create a remarkable triumph!

Apply for FACHE Credential.

Watch Now: Value of the FACHE Credential Video.

Board of Governors Exam Prep Course Videos.

FACHE Overview Webinar.

Overview of the Fellow Application and Recertification Process slides.

ACHE Navy Regent’s Fellow Accelerator Program (FAP).

*(Open to all healthcare professionals, both military and civilian)*

Board of Governors Exam Fee Waiver Campaign

Members who submit their FACHE application by June 30 will not only take a significant step in their professional journey but also, pending approval of the application, have the opportunity to receive a one-time waiver of the Board of Governors Exam Fee, a $225 value. Share this inspiring opportunity with the eligible members in your area!

FACHE Concierge Service

Fellows and aspiring Fellows can sign up for a 15-minute Concierge appointment with an FACHE® specialist. These video conference calls can help answer candidates’ questions about the FACHE application, Board of Governors Exam, or recertification requirements.

FACHE Recertification

The mandatory recertification deadline for the 2025 class is December 31, 2025. Fellows can check their progress by logging into their My ACHE page and viewing the FACHE® Recertification Progress Tool. There is no need to wait until December 31 to recertify. Fellows should recertify early, pending all requirements have been met, so they can start earning continuing education and volunteer activities toward their next recertification cycle. Fellows over 60 who plan to retire within the next five years may be eligible for a one-time only five-year recertification waiver. FACHE Recertification Application.

Five-Year Recertification Waiver

If you are over 60 and will retire within the next five years, you may be eligible for a one-time-only five-year recertification waiver. Contact Customer Service at (312) 424-9400 or contact@ache.org for more information.

Life Status and Retired Status

Fellows in good standing who have retired from healthcare management can transfer to Retired or Life Fellow Status.

ACHE Recognition Program/Service Awards

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ACHE is dedicated to promoting excellence in healthcare management. We pursue this essential mission through various initiatives, including our robust educational programs, thorough credentialing efforts, and strategic partnerships with leading healthcare organizations. The invaluable contributions of ACHE members through volunteerism play a vital role in advancing our profession. We proudly present the ACHE Recognition Program to honor these exceptional contributions and inspire greater commitment.

The ACHE Recognition Program celebrates our members’ outstanding dedication to the healthcare management field. We offer recognition at three levels based on specific volunteer activities that embody leadership and proactive contributions to advancing professional excellence. All active ACHE members are encouraged to participate and are eligible for recognition. This program highlights your significant contributions and provides a powerful platform to showcase your leadership and steadfast dedication to the profession.

Our program is carefully designed around points earned through volunteer activities during the Convocation year (April–March). This flexible recognition system allows members to accumulate points starting from the 2003–2004 Convocation year, with totals calculated annually. You are not required to earn a specific number of points in a single year; instead, you can strategically build your total over time, empowering you to shape your own recognition journey. This flexibility enables you to advance through the three award levels at a pace that suits your individual contributions.

Awardees will be recognized in a special ceremony at their local ACHE chapter, allowing them to be acknowledged for their achievements in front of their peers. Seize this opportunity to enhance your professional stature and inspire others in the field.

Serving your chapter is a powerful way to give back and earn valuable service points. Reach out to Sean DeLancey, FACHE, president, North Florida Chapter, or Victor Weeden, DHA, FACHE, president, Western Florida Chapter, and together, we can make a significant impact.

The three award levels are:

Exemplary Service Award: minimum 125 points.

Distinguished Service Award: minimum 75 points.

Service Award: minimum 30 points.

Please view the ACHE Recognition Program Flyer for information about specific activities and points awarded. To review your points and update your activities and services conducted, go to My ACHE and click on My Volunteer Service.

Questions? Email recognitionprogram@ache.org.

Don’t miss out on timely professional development discounts! Renew your ACHE membership today.

ACHE aims to address the latest challenges in healthcare with our continually expanding list of education offerings:

In-Person Clusters:Embrace the summer in Boston, Chicago, Nashville, or Orlando with invigorating, interactive, and intensive seminars led by ACHE’s esteemed faculty.

Congress on Healthcare Leadership:Mark your calendars for this unforgettable annual gathering, March 2–5, 2026, in Houston.

When you renew your ACHE membership today, you can take advantage of discounts on these opportunities. We offer two convenient ways to pay: three easy installments or auto-renewal.

Healthcare Executive Magazine

For the current issue of Healthcare Executive, click here.

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Fund for Healthcare Leadership

We’re proud to report that we eclipsed our goal for our $1 Million Campaign for Healthcare Leaders of Tomorrow!

Thank you to our campaign co-chairs, Delvecchio Finley, FACHE, and Bill Santulli, FACHE, who together had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the generosity, dedication, and shared belief in a future where health care leadership is empowered and well-supported.

These funds will directly fuel:

  • Access to ACHE’s world-class leadership development programs.
  • Mentorship and networking opportunities.
  • Scholarships and resources for professionals in need.

This achievement belongs to every donor, partner, and advocate who helped make this vision a reality. Thank you for standing with us and investing in the leaders who will shape the future of health care.

Let’s keep the momentum going—our work doesn’t stop here! Donate Today!

Read and Contribute to the ACHE Blog

The ACHE blog inspires and enlightens with valuable insights from healthcare leaders, highlighting current trends, personal narratives, and profiles of remarkable ACHE members. Check out the blog today.

ACHE invites passionate contributors to share their stories on our blog. Is your healthcare organization pioneering innovative care delivery? Have you launched a program that others could emulate? If you feel inspired to share your insights and experiences, please reach out to Caitlin Stine, communications editor, Department of Communications and Marketing, at cstine@ache.org.

Are you taking charge of your career journey?

ACHE’s vital mission is to develop healthcare leaders. With access to a wealth of tools, resources, and assessments, our members can enhance their competencies and reach their professional aspirations. Explore a comprehensive array of tools and resources designed to empower you to advance your career, build your personal brand, nurture your network, and discover new opportunities.

Services to enhance your competitive edge:

Registration is now open for the International Healthcare Symposium 2025 at UNF!

Join esteemed healthcare professionals on October 23–24 for two days filled with inspiration, innovation, and meaningful impact at UNF Adam W. Herbert University Center. Stay tuned for updates from ACHE North Florida Chapter and ACHE Western Florida Chapter.

Registration: Click here.

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2025 New FACHEs

Congratulations to these 13 remarkable members from the North Florida and Western Florida Chapters on achieving Fellow status! Your dedication to our profession and your unwavering support for your patients and community are truly inspiring!

George T. Bailey, V, FACHE

Gregory Beliles, RN, FACHE

Mary Cattaneo, FACHE

Lysette Cournoyer, FACHE

Sarah Dhanorker, FACHE

Mark Dobbertien, DO, FACHE

Valentino Ford, FACHE

Robert Potomski, FACHE

Joseph Primavera, FACHE

LT Amia Stec, FACHE

Richard Tennesen, DNP, RN, FACHE

Lehendrick Turner, FACHE

Debra Wilson, RN, FACHE

Class of 2025 Master of Healthcare Administration

Congratulations to our future Healthcare Leaders! MHA Class of 2025, good luck in your future endeavors. We look forward to seeing your accomplishments.

Congratulations to the University of Florida Master of Healthcare Administration Class of 2025!

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Congratulations to the University of North Florida Class of 2025 graduates in Bachelor of Health Administration, Master of Healthcare Administration, Executive Master of Healthcare Administration, and Master of Science in Health Informatics!

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Congratulations to the University of South Florida Master of Healthcare Administration Class of 2025!

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Organization & Member Accolades

I would like to congratulate healthcare organizations and members who were recognized for their contributions to healthcare leadership.

Stephanie Conners, CEO and president, BayCare, on being named one of Modern Healthcare’s 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives for 2025.

Nicole Gitney, on being named one of Becker’s Women in Health IT to Know.

Colleen Bell, MD, FACHE, appointed to the ACHE Physician Executives Community Committee.

Ajani Dunn, FACHE, appointed to the ACHE Finance Committee.

Ann-Marie Knight, FACHE, appointed to the ACHE Nominating Committee.

Joshua Mattson, FACHE, appointed to the ACHE Programs, Products, and Services Committee.

Zachary Pruitt, PhD, FACHE, has made meaningful contributions to the field of healthcare leadership through this published work: “Health Services Management Competencies and Careers.”

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Congratulations to the University of Florida’s Master of Health Administration (MHA) program, ranked #25 nationally and #1 in Florida by the 2025 US News & World Report rankings.

Congratulations to the University of South Florida’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program, ranked #27 nationally and #1 in Florida by the 2025 US News & World Report rankings.

On the Move

Wanted to congratulate these members who were recently promoted or changed positions.

Kerin Da Cruz, RN, FACHE, to vice president & chief operating officer, UF Health Jacksonville.

Wes Marsh, FACHE, to executive in residence, University of Florida.

Kriel Ramcharitar, MD, FACHE, to vice president and chief medical officer for Value-Based Care, BayCare Health System.

Andrew Starr, FACHE, to president, Western Market, Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.

Have a question or not sure who to contact?

Contact your Regent

Wes Marsh, FACHE
Wesley.Marsh@ufl.edu
HonWesMarsh@gmail.com
Cell: 480.201.6175
LinkedIn

Thank you again for the privilege of serving as your Regent, your unwavering commitment to our profession, and the invaluable support you extend to your patients, colleagues, and ACHE!

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Wes Marsh, FACHE

Regent for Florida – Northern and Western

HonWesMarsh@gmail.com