Leadership training connects UT Health directors, managers

January 29, 2016 | UTMC
By Amanda Benjamin



A group of directors and managers at UT Health is learning how to become effective leaders through biweekly training.

The goals of the Leadership Breakfast Series, held by UT Health’s Service Excellence Department, are to improve leadership skills, provide networking opportunities with those in similar positions, and share learning experiences with each other.

Robin Horani, administrative director in Revenue Cycle, center, talked at a recent Leadership Breakfast as, from left, Christina Powlesland, nurse manager in the operating room, James Seiwert, director of patient financial services, and Holly Hill, coding manager in Health Information Management, listened.

Robin Horani, administrative director in Revenue Cycle, center, talked at a recent Leadership Breakfast as, from left, Christina Powlesland, nurse manager in the operating room, James Seiwert, director of patient financial services, and Holly Hill, coding manager in Health Information Management, listened.

The first session of the series started last March, the second session started in May, and the third session started in August. The program has grown from 12 directors and managers to a group of 31.

“This series has allowed me to build relationships and connect with my counterparts, and have the opportunity to reach out to others for guidance and support,” said Angela Ackerman, director of outcome management.

Joshua Krupinski, assistant director for food and nutritional services, also values the connections he developed through the training.

“Having this opportunity to really dive in and connect with leaders across the different departments was truly engaging,” Krupinski said. “It was astonishing to see how leaders that are seemingly worlds apart can have such shared vision and passion for their people, the University and our community.”

The next round of training started in January, including Leadership Breakfast Series I and II for those who have completed the first training.

“The opportunity to learn with colleagues and engage in a universal vision has been instrumental to the culture at UT,” said Corey Overmyer, director of therapy services. “The professional growth achieved by this group during the breakfast series will drive this organization forward toward a bright and positive future for years to come.”

Tony Urbina, service excellence officer and facilitator of the Leadership Breakfast Series, emphasized the importance of developing a team atmosphere and taking the time to invest in each other.

“A team atmosphere doesn’t just happen; it’s one of those things you need to cultivate,” Urbina said.

In addition to creating a support system among directors and managers at UT Health, Urbina said he also plans to build a mentorship program for employees at all levels.

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