Q: Could you provide background on your education and career pathway, and how that led you to your current position at Allegheny Health Network?
A: I would describe my career pathway as non-traditional. I went to Slippery Rock University and received an undergraduate degree in Exercise Physiology (Science). It was meant to provide a strong foundation to pursue a degree in Physical Therapy, until I realized I didn’t want to be a PT. After earning my degree, I spent time in Tampa, FL and Atlanta, GA working in Corporate Wellness. Eventually, I made my way back to Western PA where I earned my master’s degree in health care administration from the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public Health. During that time, I worked at Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) as an administrative resident. I’ve been with AHN for almost 9 years and have been fortunate enough to serve in a variety of roles and settings during that time. I’m incredibly excited for my newest adventure working with the team at Suburban.
Q: What makes you most passionate about supporting founders and companies coming through AlphaLab Health?
A: The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and AlphaLab Health is at the forefront of this change. Knowing that there are individuals out there eager to solve the problems plaguing healthcare is exciting! By supporting founders and companies that are developing new technologies, treatments, and delivery models, AlphaLab Health has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of millions of people. Whether it's improving access to care, reducing costs, or developing new cures for diseases, AlphaLab Health is helping to build a healthier future for everyone.
Q: Let’s say I’m an entrepreneur in Southwestern Pennsylvania, what can I ask for your help on?
A: Most of my professional experience is in health system operations. I think one of the biggest ways I can support entrepreneurs is by helping them understand their value proposition and market fit – refining business models, helping with market research and validation, and developing financial models and cost analysis. I’m also able to help navigate the complex bureaucratic system that is healthcare, and support implementation strategies to ensure successful integration with existing workflows.
Q: Reflecting on your experience, what is the number one piece of advice you would give a startup?
A: Good ideas are a dime a dozen. Believe in your mission – be passionate about it. Don’t be deterred, stay motivated and focused. I think this may be more than one piece of advice, sorry!
Q: What technology/industry are you most excited about and why?
A: Generative AI. The technology has so much potential to offer, and I’m eager to see how / where it fits within healthcare.
Q: What issues that face our region are you most passionate about?
A: In my previous role, obtaining affordable housing was an obstacle that many of our patients faced. I’m always interested in learning about potential solutions addressing this issue. Workforce development, equitable access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, and the changing landscape of rural healthcare are also of interest to me.
Q: Do you have a recent book, TV show, movie or Podcast that you enjoyed?
A: I recently read A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman – I loved it. He is one of my favorite authors, I’d recommend any of his books!
Q: Tell us about your volunteer work.
A: My family is active in our local community, volunteering around Bellevue or at our church whenever possible. We love giving back to our neighborhood and feel it’s important that, if you’re positioned to do good, you should. Personally, I’ve been a board member with a local non-profit, Off the Floor Pittsburgh, for over 7 years. I am currently serving as Board Chair and find the work to be incredibly rewarding. I love talking about OTF – it’s truly an incredible organization making a huge impact throughout Pittsburgh.
Q: What does an average Saturday look like for you?
A: Family, family, family. My wife, Bekah, and I have two awesome children – Enzo (2.5 yrs) &Joanna (7 months) - who we love spending time with. We try to find something active to do with them on the weekends, especially when the weather is nice(rare, I know). Duncan, our golden retriever, loves to tag along whenever possible! I used to golf (see previous comment about having two young kids 😊) and can’t wait to get back to it. Watching football or taking advantage of an event in Pittsburgh (sports, concert, festival - doesn’t really matter) is always a good idea in my book, too.
Q: When asked for a ‘fun fact’ about yourself, what’s your go-to?
A: My go-to is to bury my head and pretend I didn’t hear the question. I swear, I don’t have any! If you’re forcing me to answer, despite growing up in PA, I’m a huge Green Bay Packers fan. Go Pack go!
