March 24, 2023
Letter from the Director
Katie Schlacter
VICE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR, FELLOWS NASHVILLE HEALTH CARE COUNCIL
In my time with the Council, I’ve had the privilege of watching the Fellows program evolve and grow during the past seven years. Each cohort brings a fresh perspective, but the same commitment to innovate and shape the future of health care. Each year, our team creates
a unique curriculum, designed to push the class to think differently and take bold action to improve health care.
The energy and inspiration that attracts smart leaders to health care have been put to the test in recent years by seemingly unending waves of change and struggle. The need for strong, collaborative leadership is greater than ever, as this industry continues to see dramatic shifts. The Fellows are poised to meet these challenges head-on.
From the time we first met in January through our closing retreat in May, it was clear that all of the executives in the 2019 class have a distinct combination of sharp minds, creative spirits, and kind hearts. They came from various healthcare sectors and brought diverse viewpoints, leading to rich conversations that have already birthed new professional partnerships and profound friendships.
This year’s discussions, led by some of the world’s most influential healthcare leaders, focused on policy, data and analytics, innovation in tech and delivery and the future of hospitals and doctors. The Fellows were exposed to different points of view through clinical immersion experiences. And they were given the opportunity to develop deep relationships through teamwork.
Each week brought a new level of enthusiasm, and I’m proud to know that the Fellows’ work is not over, but just beginning. It is my hope that this five-month experience refueled these leaders with the passion and inspiration that first attracted them to health care. I am confident that their work together will continue long after graduation, and the future of the nation’s healthcare system will be better because of it.
Katie Schlacter