Leadership Fellows

Who drives innovation? Hospital leaders with the skills, network, and experience to drive change. Build all three by joining the next class of fellows.

I applied to learn from and with like-minded individuals who want to drive change in health care for Texans and find solutions for our hospitals and patients as we face barriers to reimbursement and accessibility.

Chelsea Van Blarcum, MHA, AVP Finance Operations, Methodist Health System, San Antonio

I applied to learn more about health care, gain more insights about how to deliver a better patient experience and expand my network with health care leaders in Texas.

Ernest Borjas, Controller, HCA Houston Healthcare, Conroe

My understanding of health policy and advocacy is somewhat limited, yet it has a profound impact on our ability to improve the health of people in Texas. I hope this program helps equip me with knowledge and relationships to succeed in this space.

Adam Melton, Senior Vice President, Children’s Health System of Texas

I applied for the opportunity to network with dynamic, transformational leaders in my state that have the same passion for health care and patient care.

Stephanie Whitehead, MBA, MPH, MLS, Executive Director, Pathology, University Health

I want to be a more knowledgeable and educated advocate for rural health hospitals. I want to learn more about the legislative process so I can advocate on that level for small hospitals like mine.

Robin Tice, BSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, Eastland Memorial Hospital

I have been in health care administration for 28 plus years. There is always an opportunity to learn, but most importantly this is a venue to advocate and make a difference in areas that are burdening the industry.

Barbara Vazquez, DNP, MSN, RN, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Christus Children’s Hospital

Program Overview

The Texas Hospital Association Leadership Fellows Program was created to provide health care leaders with in-depth knowledge of the legislative and regulatory process, introduce key policy issues, and connect them with key policy shapers in Texas. At the conclusion of the program, the cohort will have the necessary tools to be effective health care advocates at the community, state and federal levels. The cohort will also join a growing alumni network that will provide key connections and networking opportunities with peers across the state. 

Printable Program Overview

Curriculum

The program consists of four modules throughout the course of the year.

Module I

  • Welcome new cohort and icebreaker
  • Introduction to THA
  • Introduction to the legislative and regulatory process
  • Capstone project kick-off
  • Communications coaching tailoring your message

Module II

  • Policy priority deep dive 
  • Engaging Elected Officials 
  • Capstone Group Work 
  • Media Training 
  • Communications coaching – crafting the elevator pitch 

Module III

  • Policy priority deep dive 
  • Introduction to hospital finance and the state budget 
  • Championing Ideas and Influencing Others 
  • Capstone Group Work 
  • Mock testimony exercise 
  • Communications coaching – presentation and PPT essentials 

Module IV

  • Policy priority deep dive 
  • Leadership coaching 
  • Capstone group work 
  • Capstone presentations and live coaching 
  • Graduation

In the News

Meet THA’s 2024 Class of 24 Leadership Fellows

Meet THA’s 2024 Class of 24 Leadership Fellows

Amy RiosMar 26, 20243 min read

Last week, the Texas Hospital Association convened its 2024 cohort of Leadership Fellows at THA headquarters in Austin for the first of four in-person, two-day modules. With 24 fellows participating…

Hatching A Plan: One of Hospitals’ Own Running for Texas House

Hatching A Plan: One of Hospitals’ Own Running for Texas House

Minh LyFeb 13, 20244 min read

Political Advertising Paid for by HOSPAC. As Texas’ 2024 primary election approaches, Hatch Smith (R-Llano) is standing tall on hospital issues and trying to add a unique voice to the…

Learning to Affect Change for Rural Texas Hospitals

Learning to Affect Change for Rural Texas Hospitals

LuAnn GlowaczNov 14, 20237 min read

Initiating statewide change requires considerable teamwork and a keen understanding of the legislative process. That’s why the Texas Hospital Association’s Leadership Fellows Program exists and how a recent capstone project…

THA’s Testimony Tips

THA’s Testimony Tips

Amy RiosSep 19, 20235 min read

There’s an old axiom that goes, “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” The anonymous adage has been credited to a variety of individuals, mostly politicians, which…