The Executive Health Administration National Advisory Board is comprised of members who are leaders from the healthcare and business communities. They provide vision and guidance to ensure the Executive Master of Health Administration program addresses the current and future issues that the healthcare industry is faced with.
As a CAHME (Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education) accredited program, it is important that we provide our students with real-world insight into the challenges they will face when they graduate. UC is dedicated to bringing this resource to its students while maintaining relationships that help grow and enrich the curriculum.
Learn about our board members below!
Human Resources Director, Kettering Health Network
Amanda has served as the director of human resources at Kettering Health Network since 2008. As director, she has been able to guide the core missions of her organization and cultivate a positive culture for the entire network. Amanda completed her Bachelor of Arts and her Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resources management at Wright State University in Dayton, OH. As an advisory board member, she is able to bring her knowledge and experience as a director and leader in the healthcare industry to help grow the health administration program and give advice to our faculty and staff about real world issues and problems.
Chief Executive Officer, Ochsner Baptist
Beth currently serves as Chief Executive Officer at Ochsner Baptist, a campus of Ochsner Health located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Originally from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Beth relocated to New Orleans in 2002 to participate in Ochsner’s Administrative Fellowship program and has held numerous leadership roles within the company leading up to her current position.
Beth holds a BS from Ohio University and an MHA from The Ohio State University. In 2013, Beth was recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of twelve “Up and Comers” and in 2015, by Becker’s Hospital Review as a “Rising Star: 25 Healthcare Leaders Under 40.” Becker’s has also recognized her for four years running as one of the “Women Hospitals and Healthcare Systems Need to Know.”
She is a graduate of GE’s Health Management Academy Fellowship and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). She is also proud to serve as a certified Dare to Lead™ facilitator. Beth is a member of Young Presidents’ Organization, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, World Trade Center of New Orleans, and the Discovery Health Sciences Foundation.
Operations Manager Patient Safety and Quality for Rochester Regional Health
Chris currently serves on the Chief Clinical Officer’s Executive Leadership Committee at Optum/United Healthcare, researching key patient touchpoints along the Optum clinical model. Chris has nearly 30 years of professional experience and is a graduate of the MHA program at UC since December of 2019. He has worked at Optum/United Healthcare since 2012 where he has moved from his role in network management to his current role on the Leadership Committee.
Chris has a number of professional certifications such as:
CEO, Select Specialty Hospital of Cincinnati | Treasurer, ACHE of Greater Cincinnati
Since 2017, David has served as the Chief Executive Officer for Select Specialty Hospital of Cincinnati, a long term acute care hospital with 41 licensed beds. David has accomplished a number of accolades during his time as CEO, including securing the Chairman’s Hospital of Excellence/Pulmonary Center of Excellence, PEERS and Social Media Award in 2017. In addition, his leadership has ushered in an era of success with sustained growth, new relationship building, leadership training, and improved HCAHPS scores.
Prior to his time at Select Specialty Hospital, he served as Assistant Vice President of Cardiovascular and Critical Care Services at HCA-North Hills Hospital in North Richland Hills, Texas as well as the Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Johnston-Willis Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. He received his MBA-Health Administration at the University of Colorado at Denver in 2010 and has served as Treasurer for the Greater Ohio Chapter of ACHE since 2019.
UC MHA Alum
Eric is a decisive healthcare executive with 30+ years of experience in steering the strategic vision and direction of multimillion-dollar, multifacility operations. He is best known for expertise in operations startups, turnarounds and transformations, guiding organizations to win coveted awards and generate strong bottom-line results.
Most recently Eric was recruited by the Chairman of the Board and CEO of Ballad Health to serve as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, driving the business strategy for this $1.9B healthcare organization formed from the merger of Wellmont Health System and Mountain States Health Alliance. Notably he restructured four new markets which included recruiting CEOs for two markets, assembling a new local community Board of Directors, outlining strategic plans and developing performance scorecards to ensure peak financial and quality results. Within the first two quarters of joining Ballad Health Eric outperformed budgeted financial goals and significantly raised quality outcomes.
Founder/CEO/Physician, Headache Center of Hope
Dr. Hope O’Brien received her M.D. at the University of Cincinnati in May of 2005. She went on to do her residency in neurology at University Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. She also did a clinical fellowship and research fellowship in headache medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center. In 2018, Hope received her Executive Masters of Business Administration at Xavier University. She has had a number of clinical and academic appointments spanning across the greater Cincinnati area.
Her awards and honors include:
Director of Graduate Programs in Pharmacy Leadership, UC College of Pharmacy
Jenelle Sobotka is Professor and Director of the Masters Program in Pharmacy Leadership at the University of Cincinnati James L Winkle College of Pharmacy. Dr. Sobotka is a nationally and internationally recognized pharmacy leader. Her various career roles and professional involvement have given her numerous experiences in advancing the pharmacist’s role in patient care and in developing strong leaders for the pharmacy profession.
Dr. Sobotka received her B.S. Pharmacy and her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Iowa. Early roles included community pharmacist and VA Internal Medicine clinical specialist. Sobotka then joined the Iowa Pharmacist Association staff where she helped with education and legislative advocacy for pharmacists of Iowa.
Sobotka has given numerous national and international presentations on pharmacy, as well as published several articles, book chapters and co-authored a book, A Practical Guide to Pharmaceutical Care. Sobotka has received several honors and awards including the Kappa Epsilon National Career Achievement award and is a Fellow with the American Pharmacists Association, the Hong Kong Academy of Pharmacy and the National Academies of Practice for health care professionals.
Vice President of Operations for UC Health West Chester
Uniquely positioned as a founding leader of West Chester Hospital, a new market hospital in Cincinnati, OH that is focused on providing an exceptional patient and family experience while providing high-quality cost-effective care. I was responsible for incorporating lean design at West Chester Hospital and building the culture of service, teamwork and community service.
Vice President, Reimbursement Policy for The Craneware Group
Lauree’s career journey includes her role as the Director of Data Quality & Reimbursement at Cleverley + Associates, where she meticulously analyzed hospital and physician third-party payer contractual arrangements. In addition, she also served as an OCE/NCCI Auditor at The Ohio State University Medical Center, The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital, and The Ohio State University Hospitals East. In this role, she contributed to reducing medical center error rates by resolving code editor errors and ensuring UB data element accuracy.
Lauree holds a Master of Health Administration from the University of Cincinnati, where her capstone focused on negotiation skills in third-party payer contract negotiations. She also obtained a Master of Science in Allied Medical Professions from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Science in Allied Medical Professions, specializing in Health Information Management and Systems. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Allied Medical Professions from The Ohio State University and an Associate of Science degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training from the University of Charleston.
COO, Case Specific Nutrition
As the Chief Operating Officer at Case Specific Nutrition, Robert ensures compliance with national and state regulations for registered dietitian and diabetes prevention services. He oversees the operations of a specialized private practice with multiple offices and has successfully optimized the budget, resulting in consistent revenue growth. His ability to establish new business and additional revenue streams is evidenced by the addition of over two-dozen corporate contracts and the optimization of existing referral resources.
In his role as VP of Program Development and PT Consultant at ASF Solutions, Robert evaluates opportunities to enhance healthcare facilities’ revenue and patient quality. He implements system-wide strategies and new programs, emphasizing the importance of positive revenue streams and patient satisfaction.
Robert holds a Doctor of Healthcare Administration from Liberty University, a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Cincinnati, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from Slippery Rock University. He has also obtained FEMA certification and is actively engaged in volunteer organizations and committees.
President/CEO of Bon Secours Mercy Virginia One
Shane is a healthcare executive with 28 years of progressive experience with quantifiable results in investor-owned, governmental, faith-based and not for profit healthcare facility operations seeking an opportunity to lead a small to midsize hospital to greater market share and enhanced services. Proven compassionate leader with wide ranging experiences involving strategic growth, service line development, physician relations and recruitment, capital project development, HCAHPS improvement, TJC accreditation success, expanding access in primary and secondary service areas, family and patient centered care enhancement, compliance and physician recruitment. Highly effective communicator who flourishes as a leader in developing and maintaining teams that provide excellent experiences for patients, a welcoming environment for physicians, and workplace cohesiveness for team members.
Shane holds a Master of health Administration from Army-Baylor University, a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland, and is a graduate of the Marine Corps College of Command and Staff in Quantico, Virginia.
Director of Development, UC Foundation
Tiffany Porter Shabazz is an accomplished executive with over ten years of experience in leadership development, organizational effectiveness and creating inclusive cultures. She has led strategic and sustainable change in the sectors of Retail, Non-profit and most recently in the Healthcare industry. Valuing equity, justice and innovation, her professional goals have focused on improving the lives of individuals and families in Greater Cincinnati and surrounding communities. In 2019, she transitioned from the field of training and development into fundraising. In 2020, her Advancement role was expanded to include Strategic Partnerships, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for The Christ College of Nursing & Health Sciences. In April 2022, Tiffany joined the University of Cincinnati Foundation as the Director of Development for the UC Cancer Center. She serves on a number of organizational and civic boards within Greater Cincinnati. She and her husband, Rocky have three daughters and two sons. In their personal time, you’ll find them at high school and collegiate sporting events, relaxing at home and traveling.
CFO, Kettering Physician Network
Tim is currently serving as both the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Kettering Health’s Kettering Physician Network, where he manages a substantial operating budget. He oversees all financial and operational aspects of the medical group, comprising over 750 providers and 125 practices. His strategic acumen has led to the implementation of a Project Management and Process Improvement Team, successfully navigating operational challenges during the pandemic, and opening multiple vaccination sites for the community. Timothy has also achieved significant cost reductions in hospital supply expenses, participated in key healthcare programs, and restructured Revenue Cycle teams for enhanced effectiveness.
During his tenure as Vice President of Finance and Operations at Greene Memorial Hospital, he executed a large financial turnaround plan and achieved cash flow break-even, effectively overseeing financial functions and operations. Additionally, as Vice President of Finance and Operations at Indu and Raj Soin Medical Center, he successfully oversaw financial aspects related to construction and activation, ensuring the project’s completion on time and under budget.
Timothy is a Certified Management Accountant and holds an MBA from Rollins Crummer Graduate School of Business, with honors including Beta Gamma Sigma and Dean’s List recognition. He also holds a BBA with an emphasis in Finance from Pacific Union College, where he was a member of Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society in Business.
Healthcare Economist and Insurance Executive, Adjunct Professor
William has 20+ years of proven experience negotiating major network and provider contracts, managing complex budgets, and delivering positive business results. Comprehensive knowledge of Medicare Advantage, reimbursement structures, physician incentives, high-performance networks, and risk-based contracting. Dynamic leader with exceptionally strong skills in financial analysis, provider relations, quality improvement, cost management, and public speaking.
William is currently serving as the Vice President of Managed Care/Revenue Cycle at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Edgewood, Kentucky. He has also served as Vice President of Provider Contracting and Network Operation as well as Director of Market Financial Analysis both at Humana in Cincinnati, Ohio. He holds a Master’s in Applied Economics from the University of Cincinnati and a Master’s in Health Administration from Xavier University.
Public Health Professor, Academic Research/Public Health Policy Administration/Biostatistician
Michelle is a highly experienced health policy administrator and professor with multi-faceted experience spanning the academic, research, and policy arenas with a focus on public health. She is an undergraduate and graduate-level educator and post-doctorate researcher; author on many peer-reviewed research publications and healthcare studies. Michelle has proven her ability to procure research funding and multi-million dollar grants while administering public health programs and mentoring students. She is an expert in mixed methods multi-level research and policy evaluation, with experience in the political aspects of healthcare policy. She is an expert in curriculum and program development with synchronous and asynchronous online and in-person experience. Michelle was pivotal in helping the EMHA program at UC secure CAHME accreditation.
Michelle holds a Doctorate of Public Health from Drexel University, a Master of Public Health from the Consortium of Eastern Ohio College of Medicine, and a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast News from Kent State University
Advisor, William Kirkwood & Associates, LLC | Course Facilitator, Principles in Leadership
William is a distinguished healthcare leader and accomplished organizational advisor with a remarkable track record of initiating and executing change programs that deliver measurable performance improvements. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, he has leveraged his extensive knowledge and skills in areas such as organizational assessment, transformational strategy development, performance management, and leadership development to make a significant impact in the healthcare industry.
Dr. Kirkwood holds a Doctorate in Philosophy in Organizational Behavior from The Union Institute and University in Cincinnati, Ohio. His educational journey also includes a Master’s in Hospital & Health Administration from Xavier University and a Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Cincinnati.
Program Director, Department of Veterans Affairs
Dr. Amanda Logan is the Program Director of the regional Clinical Resource Hub (virtual healthcare system) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), serving VISN 10 which encompasses 11 Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio VA Medical Centers. Dr. Logan has vast experience in healthcare administration and is currently responsible for over 380 Full Time Employees (FTE) and a greater than $48M annual budget. The clinical programs of which Dr. Logan oversees includes Tele-Primary Care (Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT), Whole Health, Compensation & Pension), Tele-Urgent Care, Tele-Chaplain, Tele-Mental Health (Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Substance Use Disorder, Homeless and Supportive Housing), Tele-Pharmacy, and Tele-Specialty (Tele-Eye, Tele-Surgery, Tele-Nephrology, Tele-Oncology, Tele-Podiatry, Tele-Gastroenterology) clinical services. Dr. Logan is recognized as an enterprise-wide High Reliability Organization (HRO) expert, relating to optimal leadership skill sets for HRO adoption in healthcare. She is certified as an American College of Healthcare Executive (ACHE) Fellow, and well-educated in the field with a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration (DHA). In addition, Dr. Logan possesses in-depth front-line clinical understanding and experience as a Registered/Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist.
Project Manager at Oracle Health
Currently working at Oracle Cerner as a Project Manager in Federal space specifically with the Department of Defense. Experience in leading a complete software implementation in a diverse customer base across the country. My current project is the only fully integrated DOD and VA healthcare site. For the success of the project, my role is to facilitate, collaborate and execute design and execution discussions between both agencies in order to allow the best-documented care for the Active Duty members and Veterans. Manage a strong group of individuals which entails educating, coaching, and supporting on a daily basis. Developed strong consulting professionalism and industry knowledge while earning a Bachelor’s degree focused in Health Information Management and Systems from The Ohio State University. Currently advancing healthcare industry knowledge by attending the University of Cincinnati for a Masters in Health Administration.
Clinical Assistant Professor-Nephrology and Internal Medicine Medical Director, Interventional Nephrology Unit Medical Director, VAST (Vascular Access Services Team)
Dr. Karthik Ramani, MD, MHA, CPE, FACP, FASN, FASDIN, is a distinguished Clinical Assistant Professor specializing in Nephrology and Internal Medicine. He serves as the Medical Director for both the Interventional Nephrology Unit and the Vascular Access Services Team at the University of Michigan Health System.
Dr. Ramani’s extensive education and training include an MB BS from Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, a Masters in Health Care Administration (MHA) from the University of Cincinnati, and ongoing pursuit of an MBA at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. His postdoctoral training includes various internships, residencies, and clinical fellowships across prestigious institutions, contributing to his comprehensive expertise.
Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in both Internal Medicine and Nephrology, Dr. Ramani also holds certifications in Interventional Nephrology, Lean Six Sigma, and is a Certified Physician Executive (CPE). His commitment to continuous learning is evident through additional education in Clinical and Translational Research, Biomedical Innovation, and various leadership and business programs.
Director of Quality and Accreditation for the Oncology Service Line, St. Elizabeth Healthcare System
Amy is currently the Director of Quality and Accreditation for the Oncology Service Line at the St. Elizabeth healthcare system. She is launching Interprofessional disease management teams, developing a platform for value-based care, creating a quality dashboard, and designing a data governance program.
Amy has an expansive background in management including: Business and Operations Manager of UC Health’s Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, Manager of UC Health’s Internal Medicine and Pediatrics Ambulatory Practice, Project Director of the Ohio Valley Sickle Cell Network, and Administrative Director for the Center for Clinical & Translational Science and Training’s Center for Improvement Science. Amy is a certified Lean Six Sigma Blackbelt and implemented the Transfer and Physician Referral Center at UC Health, which expedited inpatient transfers between hospitals as well as provided immediate communication for providers seeking specialty consults. Additionally, she implemented enterprise deployment of an on-line, on-call physician scheduling and call coverage tool, known as AMION at UC Health.
She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Cincinnati. She holds a Master’s in Health Services Administration from Xavier University.
Program Director, Master of Health Administration program, University of Cincinnati
Debra R. Zevallos, DBH, MHA, FACHE, is a highly accomplished Executive Leader with a distinguished career in Higher Education and Healthcare Administration. As a board-certified Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), she brings extensive expertise in program administration, curriculum development, instructional design, and faculty development.
Currently serving as program director of the Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA) program at the University of Cincinnati. Her responsibilities include directing key courses such as Principles of Leadership and Global Health Systems, highlighting her commitment to shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders, as well as shepherding the program into the future.
Debra R. Zevallos stands out for her self-guided and strategic thinking, exceptional communication skills, and proficiency in organizational and time management. Her extensive experience and leadership roles across healthcare and education make her a respected figure in the field, contributing to research areas such as integrated primary and behavioral health care, the Quadruple Aim of Health Care, leadership models, change and innovation, and online teaching effectiveness.
The Executive Healthcare Administration Advisory Board stands as a beacon of progress and innovation in the realm of healthcare management. Through collaborative efforts, strategic insights, and a wealth of experience, this board becomes a guiding force in steering the University of Cincinnati toward excellence.
By bringing together seasoned professionals, industry leaders, and academic experts, the advisory board not only addresses current challenges but also shapes the future landscape of healthcare administration for our students and faculty. Its collective wisdom fosters an environment of continuous improvement, ensuring that institutions stay resilient and responsive to the evolving needs of the healthcare industry. As this advisory board continues to flourish, it represents a vital catalyst for positive change within the Executive Healthcare Administration Master’s program at this university.
Are you ready to take that next step and learn from our industry experts? Start your application today!
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