Michele K. Sutton, National ACHE Chair-Elect and CEO of North Oaks Health System in Hammond, La., will keynote the CAHL Annual Meeting on Aug. 22. Registration is open here.
You’re keynoting the CAHL Annual Meeting this year. Could you give us a little preview of what’s been on your mind lately?
It truly is an honor and privilege to address the CAHL Annual Meeting participants. What has been on my mind lately is our ACHE strategic plan and its three imperatives of being a trusted partner to our members, to be a catalyst for change and to be a connector.
Also, I think about the benefits of donating to our fund for leadership. Each person who donates to the fund is part of the solution of workforce shortages. It is personally rewarding and motivating to know I played a small part in creating our future healthcare leaders through this scholarship fund which supports the development of a diverse pipeline of future leaders by ensuring financial constraints are not a limiting factor in their education and growth. Donors to the fund are intentionally making a difference in our industry through this initiative.
What changes happening across the healthcare industry are you most excited to see play out in the coming year?
The changes I am most excited to see play out in the coming year are the changes we made with the CEU requirements which is 12 hours of face to face; 12 hours of ACHE webinars and 12 hours of qualified education to allow members to sit for the exam to advance to fellow. Our credential is a beacon in the industry which signifies this individual is highly competent in healthcare leadership… personally, I refer to it as the golden seal of approval. One wouldn’t knowingly choose to go to a physician who isn’t board certified; therefore, why would one hire an individual to lead who is not board certified.
You serve on several healthcare boards across the nation. How has your perspective on leadership evolved over the course of these roles?
I believe my perspective on leadership has evolved over the course of these roles to one where I firmly acknowledge that leadership and the development of leadership competencies are critical to the success of any organization. And it has really made me appreciate ACHE as my trusted partner to advance my healthcare leadership skills. I have witnessed the difference individuals can make when they commit to being a lifelong learner. Leadership is fluid and not for the faint of heart. One must have a servant’s heart, commit, engage, collaborate, motivate and most of all continually learn.
What would you say to someone who’s considering attending the CAHL annual meeting for the first time?
If I had the opportunity to talk with a group of potential first-time attendees who are considering the CAHL annual meeting, I would say what are you waiting for…don’t delay. Register today. Invest in you and your future. This event will provide you with the perfect avenue to make new connections, learn and/or enhance a leadership competency.
Anything else you’d like to share with the CAHL membership in advance of the Annual Meeting?
There has never been a more dynamic, challenging, and interesting time to be in healthcare. As a leader, curiosity and a learner mindset are the key to continued growth, success, and impact. ACHE offers countless opportunities to grow, learn, contribute, and successfully navigate change at any stage of your career.
I look forward to meeting each of you and sharing how ACHE has made a difference in my life and how it can enrich yours.