Texas Hospital Association

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

Continuing Education

Curriculum

In the News

Application Process

Class of 2024

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

Evolving as a Leader

Evolving as a Leader

Julia MannOct 20, 20227 min read

As a former THA leadership fellow and with nearly two decades of hospital administration under his belt, Christopher Sandles, MBA, FACHE, is no stranger to health care leadership. Currently, Sandles…

Educating Hospital Leaders in Health Care Policy

Educating Hospital Leaders in Health Care Policy

Julia MannOct 20, 202210 min read

Education is the foundation on which we base our perspective of the world, and our depth of knowledge in a certain area often determines where we choose to apply that…