Winter 2025

President's Report

Leading, Learning, and Connecting — Reflections from the Oregon ACHE Fall Conference

This fall, we had the privilege of hosting the Oregon ACHE Fall Conference—a day centered on reflection, learning, and connection. Together with our incredible board, we welcomed healthcare leaders from across the state to explore topics of bias awareness and leading change.

Partnering with the Hospital Association of Oregon for this year’s event was especially meaningful. We were inspired by Becky Hultberg’s keynote on reimagining healthcare amid challenge and change—her words reminded us that leadership often means finding strength and hope even in uncertain times.

What stayed with me most from the day wasn’t just what we learned—it was who we learned it with. From reconnecting with former colleagues and meeting new ones, I was reminded that our profession is sustained by the communities we build together. Those connections are what keep us grounded, inspired, and moving forward.

The Power of Networking and Paying It Forward

I recently attended a session on networking, one takeaway stood out: networking isn’t just a job search activity—it’s a leadership skill. It’s about nurturing relationships, listening with curiosity, and finding ways to be helpful to others. The speaker shared a great metaphor from the book The Go-Giver: when we toss a pebble into a pond, the ripples expand outward. Each time we help someone, we create ripples of goodwill that often come back to us in unexpected ways.

That perspective feels especially relevant now. Many of us have seen the “open to work” banners on LinkedIn, and we know that times of transition can test even the strongest leaders. My colleague recently shared a thoughtful message that I want to echo here: if you’re navigating a career change—or supporting someone who is—please lean on your ACHE community. Our chapter offers resources like job boards, resume support, and, most importantly, a network of professionals who genuinely want to help.

Whether you’re attending an event, reaching out to a peer, or mentoring someone new, I encourage you to keep “flapping your wings,” as the speaker put it. Every conversation, every introduction, every moment of generosity adds to the lift that keeps our profession—and our community—flying.

Better Together — Strengthening Connections Across the Region

Earlier this year, we had the joy of partnering with several professional associations in Oregon and Washington, including the Washington State Chapter of ACHE, to co-host a Better Together networking event in Vancouver. The gathering was a celebration of connection—leaders from both states sharing stories, ideas, and laughter in an informal, welcoming setting.

And our collaborative spirit continues this fall with something new: our first-ever multi-chapter virtual education event. On November 13th, ACHE District 5 is coming together for a full day of leadership learning through the Western Collaborative Event. Oregon is proud to kick off the day with Population Health Strategies, moderated by Miranda Miller of Samaritan Health Services, featuring a powerhouse panel of Charlene McGee (Multnomah County Health Department), Dr. Brent Godek (Samaritan Health Services), and Dr. Ryan Nicholas (Mercy Medical Group–Dignity Health).

Throughout the day, our colleagues in Montana, Nevada, and Utah will carry the torch with sessions on Digital Health, Compliance and Risk, and Executive Alignment with Physicians and Financial Goals. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and strengthen our leadership community across the West—showing what’s possible when chapters collaborate with purpose.

These multi-chapter efforts—both virtual and in-person—represent the kind of bridge-building that helps us learn from one another, share best practices, and cultivate a stronger regional network of healthcare leaders.

Looking Ahead — Community, Mentorship, and Partnership

At this year’s ACHE Chapter Leaders Conference, one theme came through loud and clear: strong chapters are built on strong communities. Chapters across the country shared how partnerships with hospital associations, and other professional associations, have helped expand their reach more efficiently. They also emphasized the importance of two-way dialogue with members—listening, collaborating, and finding new ways to bring value.

As we look to 2026, the Oregon ACHE Board will be focusing on four key areas inspired by those conversations:

• Strategic Partnerships – Identifying new Oregon-based partners for co-hosted events and joint continuing education offerings.
• Member Engagement – Strengthening outreach to members, including those in transition, and inviting more student involvement.
• Mentorship – Exploring building a structured mentorship model that connects early, mid, and senior careerists.
• Modern Networking – Creating events that blend learning, connection, and fun—because leadership can happen just as easily over coffee, at a winery, or on a golf range as in a conference room.

Our chapter’s strength has always been its people—leaders who care deeply about the work they do and the communities they serve. Thank you for being part of this growing, giving, and resilient Oregon ACHE family. I hope you’ll continue to connect, volunteer, and share your ideas as we shape what comes next—together.

Stay Engaged: Education, Events & Networking

Our chapter is committed to providing valuable learning and networking opportunities. Be sure to check our website and LinkedIn page for event updates and if you are interested in organizing one!

Connect and Get Involved!

We are always looking for members who want to get involved and help shape the future of our chapter. Whether through committee work, event planning, or mentorship, there are many ways to contribute. If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about available opportunities, please reach out!

I also welcome the opportunity to connect with you, learn about your goals and engage in dialogue on how the chapter can support you professionally. Thank you for being part of the Oregon ACHE community.

Warm regards,
Wing Chan, MHA, FACHE
President, Oregon ACHE Chapter

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Member Recognition

As many of you know, the American College of Healthcare Executives is dedicated to advancing healthcare management excellence—not only through education and credentialing, but also through the volunteer service of our members to the chapter, ACHE and the profession.

To honor that service, ACHE established the Recognition Program, which celebrates members’ commitment to the profession. Recognition is earned by accumulating points through volunteer activities over time, with members progressing through three award levels.

Today, it’s my privilege to recognize two of our Oregon ACHE members who have achieved this distinction through their service and leadership.

Please join me in congratulating Erin Hardwick and Kecia Kelley on their well-deserved recognition. Erin and Kecia are being recognized with a Service Level Award.  Your dedication strengthens both our chapter and our profession as a whole.

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Calendar of Events

ACHE 2026 Congress on Healthcare Leadership: Healthcare’s Premier Leadership Event

Take the next step in your professional development, network with fellow healthcare leaders and gain actionable takeaways at the ACHE 2026 Congress on Healthcare Leadership.

Put your purpose in motion and join us March 2-4, 2026, in Houston to discover new solutions, hear unique perspectives, and learn how to positively impact health in your community.

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Message from Your ACHE Regent

Dear ACHE Oregon Members,

I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the serene beauty of the winter season. As we reflect on recent accomplishments and prepare for an exciting year ahead, I want to share updates, celebrate our vibrant community, and acknowledge the challenges many of us are facing in healthcare today.

Navigating Challenging Times

The impact of recent layoffs has been significant—many of us have seen the “open to work” banners on LinkedIn. These are undoubtedly tough times, and now more than ever, I encourage you to lean on the ACHE community. Whether you’re navigating a career transition or supporting others, ACHE offers valuable resources such as our job board, resume support, and a network of professionals ready to help. Please reach out—we’re here for you.

Exciting News for Congress 2026

This year, Congress will be held earlier than usual in Houston, offering world-class education, networking, and career development opportunities. We’re thrilled to announce an outstanding lineup of keynote speakers:

• Adam Grant – Organizational Psychologist and New York Times bestselling author
• Patrick Lencioni – President of The Table Group and bestselling author
• Scott Hamilton – Olympic Champion Figure Skater & Cancer Survivor
• Ann Moriss – Leadership Strategist and bestselling author

Congress is also a time to honor our newest Oregon Fellows during Convocation. Achieving FACHE status reflects a deep commitment to professional growth and leadership. Let’s celebrate these outstanding leaders together!

Congratulations to Our New Fellows

Please join me in congratulating the following Oregon ACHE members who earned their FACHE credential in the past six months:

• Dina K. Ellwanger, RN, FACHE
• Scott B. Nelson, FACHE
• Aurora Z. Ronning, FACHE
• Majid R. Tanas, PharmD, MHA, FACHE

Celebrating Leadership Excellence

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible Chapter Leaders and committee members. Your dedication is the backbone of our success. Special thanks to our Chairs and their committees:

• Heidi May-Stoulil – Chair, Planning and Education
• Shelly Alinari-Beebe – Chair, Membership
• Karl Kamper – Chair, Communications
• Amy Watson – Chair, Advancement

Annual Awards – Nominations Now Open

We are now accepting nominations for our annual awards through the end of March, with celebrations planned during the Spring Conference. Please consider recognizing a colleague who exemplifies ACHE’s values and leadership.

Award Categories and Criteria:

Early Career Healthcare Executive Award

• ACHE member
• Demonstrated leadership and innovation
• Executive capability in organizational growth and community impact
• Active participation in healthcare associations and civic projects
• Engagement in ACHE activities

Senior-Level Healthcare Executive Award

• ACHE Fellow
• Senior executive role (CEO, COO, etc.)
• Proven leadership and creative management
• Contributions to developing others in healthcare
• Active involvement in healthcare associations, civic projects, and ACHE initiatives

These awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate those who elevate our profession and inspire others. Please feel free to email me with any questions.

Upcoming Oregon ACHE Events

If you can’t attend Congress, don’t miss the Oregon ACHE Spring Conference on April 24, 2026, in Portland. This event will feature thought-provoking panels, networking opportunities, and our award ceremonies.

Thank you for all you do to advance healthcare leadership and strengthen our community. I look forward to connecting with you soon!

Warm regards,
Jenny Will
ACHE Regent, Oregon

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