About Us
Learn More About NAHSE Indy
The National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE) is a non-profit association of Black health care professionals founded in 1968 for the purpose of promoting the advancement and development of Black health care leaders, and elevating the quality of health care services rendered to minority and underserved communities.
NAHSE’s purpose is to ensure greater participation of minority groups in the health field. Its basic objective is to develop and maintain a strong viable national body to more effectively have input in the national health care delivery system. It has provided a vehicle for Blacks to effectively participate in the design, direction and delivery of quality health care to all people.
NAHSE Indy proudly exists for all individuals who support the ideals of equitable access to healthcare for all communities along with cultivating an inclusive healthcare workforce where leaders and clinicians of all backgrounds and beliefs are able to contribute and thrive.
Our Vision
NAHSE will be recognized globally as the premier professional membership society for Blacks in health care management. NAHSE strives to improve the health status, economic opportunities and educational advancement of the communities we serve. NAHSE is committed to the Association goals by providing: Professional Programs/Workshops, Educational Programs, A Job Bank, Mentoring Program, Scholarships, Fellowship Opportunities, Community Service Projects, Health Policy, and Expanding Business Contracting Opportunities.
Our Chapter History
Indiana has a rich healthcare landscape with hospitals, healthcare systems, and health-focused organizations as well as universities training healthcare professionals at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate level. However, Indiana consistently ranks as one of the unhealthiest states and the disparities among Black communities are substantial. Recognizing that diverse collaboration is integral to progress, a cross-organizational assembly of leaders established a statewide chapter of NAHSE after garnering support from Founding Sponsors (link to sponsorship tab).
The NAHSE Indy Chapter aims to improve health outcomes and quality of life for Black Hoosiers, provide targeted professional development, generate a pipeline of local Black talent, and mobilize leaders to address gaps both inside and outside of the hospital walls. Programs and priorities for NAHSE Indy will be organized around three pillars: Inform, Inspire, and Innovate.
Our Founding Sponsors
NAHSE Indy’s Founding Sponsors share a desire for the change reflected in NAHSE’s mission and a commitment to catalyzing it through financial investment and strategic guidance. Founding Sponsors provide the highest level of support, which helps to enhance chapter offerings, cultivate engagement among members, and expand the reach of chapter initiatives to optimize community impact. NAHSE Indy is incredibly grateful to our Founding Sponsors.
Chapter Leadership
President's Welcome
Greetings! It’s my honor and privilege to serve as Founding President of the NAHSE Indy Chapter alongside a talented, industrious Executive Board comprised of individuals who’ve believed in NAHSE Indy’s potential for transformative impact since inception. In fact, each board member played a key role in establishing our local chapter – from preliminary meeting discussions to email outreach and document drafts, NAHSE Indy has been a labor of love born out of tremendous need.
The circumstances of 2020, including nationwide racial unrest sparked by police brutality and a global pandemic that exacerbated healthcare disparities, highlighted substantial gaps in multiple systems/institutions and rightfully raised concern about justice for marginalized communities. Diversity, equity, and inclusion was simultaneously brought to the forefront of corporate conversations. Within the Indiana healthcare space, the following priority needs emerged and have been validated by executives leading Indiana’s top healthcare organizations:
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Healthcare systems delivering equitable and culturally competent care
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Coordinated efforts to eliminate healthcare disparities
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A diverse talent pipeline for essential healthcare occupations
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A workforce with representative leadership
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Retention strategies for Black healthcare professionals and providers
Over the past two years, I’ve been most impressed by the displays of resilience from the Black community and our ability to harness the power in our unity. I believe the current problems are solvable and NAHSE Indy is an essential partner for sustainable change in the ways healthcare is directed, delivered, and designed. NAHSE Indy is a vehicle for progress and will facilitate personal growth and external engagement through educational programs, leadership opportunities, and targeted networking experiences. NAHSE Indy will deliver value to members, sponsors, and our broader community through: Information, Inspiration, and Innovation.
In closing, I extend heartfelt gratitude to my E-Board, Strategic Advisory Council, sponsors and early supporters, as well as current and prospective members. Our journey is just getting started – join us in seizing this moment and creating a movement!
In health,
Alex Simonton
President, NAHSE Indy Chapter