Event Description

Non-Traditional Leadership Career Pathways: Turning Diverse Experiences into Healthcare Impact

Join NAHSE Indy Chapter and the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives (Indiana Chapter) for an engaging evening designed for early career professionals and mid-level leaders looking to grow, pivot, or elevate their impact in healthcare.

This dynamic panel will feature accomplished professionals who have navigated non-traditional career paths—bringing experiences from across industries into meaningful leadership roles in healthcare. Through candid storytelling and practical insights, panelists will explore how diverse backgrounds can fuel innovation, strengthen leadership, and create lasting impact in a rapidly evolving industry.

Attendees will gain:

• Insight into non-linear career journeys and how to leverage diverse experiences

• Practical strategies for career advancement and leadership growth

• Perspectives on breaking into and thriving within healthcare leadership

• Opportunities to connect with peers and expand professional networks

Whether you’re building your foundation or preparing for your next leadership step, this event will leave you inspired and equipped to turn your unique experiences into impact.

📅 Date: June 25, 2026

⏰ Time: 5:30 – 7:30 PM

📍 Location: Mosaic Center, 1776 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN

Meet the Speakers

Moderator: Elena M. Foster, MBA

Performance Improvement Manager, Ascension Medical Group Indiana

Elena Foster is a healthcare leader specializing in performance improvement, quality, and patient safety. At Ascension Medical Group Indiana, she leads statewide initiatives across primary and specialty care and manages a multidisciplinary team of 18 associates.

A member of the 2025–2026 American Hospital Association Next Generation Leaders Fellowship, Elena brings a strong background in clinical quality and operations. She is actively involved in advancing the field through her service on the Indiana ACHE Board of Directors and previously as founding treasurer of the Indiana chapter of the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives.

Elena is passionate about developing future healthcare leaders and advancing equity in care delivery.

Panelist: Cristina Esquivel

Quality Assurance Associate, Eli Lilly and Company

Cristina Esquivel is a quality and operations professional whose career reflects a unique journey from direct patient care to pharmaceutical manufacturing. With experience spanning frontline healthcare and work with major organizations such as Merck, Pfizer, and Eli Lilly, she brings a comprehensive perspective on the medicine-making process.

Cristina is known for mentoring teams and bridging gaps between clinical practice and industry operations. As an incoming MBA candidate at Indiana University Indianapolis, she is preparing to take the next step in her career, including exploring entrepreneurial ventures.

Panelist: Jarrah Hamer

Senior Consultant, Indiana University Health | Founder, The Ottice Group

Jarrah Hamer is a licensed psychotherapist, healthcare leader, adjunct professor, and founder of The Ottice Group, where he designs transformational peer support experiences focused on mental wellness and community connection.

After beginning a career in aerospace defense, Jarrah transitioned into healthcare to drive deeper community impact. He has since contributed to organizations including Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, Eskenazi Health, Regenstrief Institute, and IU Health.

Jarrah’s work centers on advancing health equity, reducing stigma, and fostering connection as a pathway to stronger communities.

Panelist: Ebony Carter, MBA

Project Manager, Indiana University Health

Ebony Carter is a project manager at Indiana University Health, where she supports strategic initiatives in care affordability, operations, and community impact. Her career spans more than a decade at IU Health, following an earlier start in the legal field as a paralegal and investigator.

Ebony’s nontraditional path reflects resilience and adaptability, progressing from a temporary role in revenue cycle services to leadership in project management and operations.

Outside of healthcare, Ebony is an entrepreneur, having recently launched a catering business that combines her passion for hospitality and bringing people together.