Greetings Central and South Texas ACHE chapter members,

As we enter fall months (and hopefully fall weather soon!) I would like to update you on some select initiatives in support of our Central and South Texas ACHE Chapters. As I mentioned in my previous membership message, I encourage everyone to visit their respective chapter’s website to review upcoming events, identify chapter leadership, and even inquire on potential volunteer opportunities.

Stay updated with your local chapter’s scheduled events, happenings, and potential leadership opportunities (board positions, committee chairs/representatives, and other volunteer opportunities).

Higher Education Network (HEN) visits have begun!

Probably one of the most rewarding benefits I have experienced while serving as your Regent thus far has been the opportunity to visit our region’s HEN programs and encourage ACHE student membership. Wow, what an amazing time! To date, I have had the opportunity to visit with the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio (MHA program), Concordia University-Texas in Austin (BA, global public health, and MBA programs), and Texas State University in San Marcos (BHA, BSHS, and MHA programs). I am looking forward to future healthcare administration program site visits to convey the same ACHE student membership information, while also networking with our region’s expert faculty and most importantly – our future healthcare leaders!

ST-ACHE award nomination: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives

I am proud to announce that I have submitted a nomination to our Regent-at-Large (ACHE-national level) to recognize the South Texas Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives for their prior and ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. In addition to hosting multiple DEI focused in-person education sessions, they have also approved a new Chapter diversity statement which includes impressive diversity goals for future events. This Chapter’s DEI Committee members also hosted an event with the City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District this past month, assisting clinicians and administrators with health equity training initiatives. I am sure that many other ACHE Regents have also submitted nominations for this prestigious ACHE-national level award, and I will keep you all updated when the Regent-at-Large notifies us of their decision of the award winner soon (finger crossed here folks!).

Fall chapter events are getting scheduled

Now is the time to plan for those required Face-to-Face Education credits! Your chapter leaders are hard at work planning educational programs and networking opportunities! Some notable events I would like to mention:

1. The CT/ST-ACHE Fall Collaborative is returning! Held on the Texas State University campus, this event provides two ACHE Face-to-Face Education credit-approved panels, accessible to both chapters (between Austin and San Antonio). Scheduled for September 30, from 1-5 PM, off-site reception to follow! Registration link HERE.
2. ST-ACHE is hosting a Student Symposium educational event on Friday, September 23, from 11AM – 4PM. This event will have three Face-to-Face Education credits, include lunch, and be held at the Alamo Café off HWY 281 in San Antonio – please save the date!
3. ST-ACHE is planning another Healthcare Landscape event in San Antonio! It will be held on Friday, January 27, 2023 – please save the date!

I know both chapters are planning additional events, more to come and keep an eye out for their chapter emails to stay updated.

Teamwork cuts across the mound

It would be inappropriate if I failed to mention the ongoing environment, work force challenges, and related daily occurrences that we are all facing these days. Often overwhelming, I want to convey the message of hope that I observed recently from two separate events. One was me walking back into the classroom with my students after being off this past summer. Their eagerness to learn and enthusiasm in the learning environment – even after all they have been through these past two years – just phenomenal. Our upcoming healthcare administration cohorts are impressive. Second – well, I will let the video speak for itself, as it made me think of only the word ‘hope’ as our even younger generations continue to grow and amaze us all:

Quite impressive leadership.

Be active, be involved, and be present. Lead and follow well. Have fun.

Thanks, Cristian