Most highly ranked
Iowa’s MHA Program Prepares Future Health Care Leaders Iowa’s Master of Health Administration program is powered by an active network of alumni, faculty, and staff invested in students’ success. BY JENNIFER NEW
graduate programs have something that sets them apart. This unique quality is what differentiates an exceptional program from the pack of great ones. For the University of Iowa’s Master of Health Administration (MHA) program, that element is its alumni network. Iowa’s MHA program, one of the oldest in the country, holds a top place in annual rankings of health care management programs. It is distinguished by former students who are deeply invested in the growth and success of current and prospective students. “The availability of the alumni network is unparalleled in the MHA world,” says John Corbeil (12MHA), chief executive officer of HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood. His words are echoed by Kristin Wilson, director of the MHA program: “One generation mentors the next. Students don’t become great in a vacuum. They get incredible support from our alumni, faculty, and staff. It’s a whole team effort.” TIGHTKNIT FROM THE START
One student currently reaping the rewards of this tightknit and generous alumni community is Maddie Huinker. “The alumni are very engaged with every aspect of the program,” says the Iowa City native. “I met alums during my application process, as guest speakers, and doing mock job interviews and resume reviews.” During her two years as an MHA student, Huinker enjoyed being taught directly by professionals at University of Iowa Health Care. She was a graduate research assistant for UIHC’s chief growth officer and worked on projects ranging from predictive modeling to pediatric physician supply and demand assessment. Over the summer, she interned in INSIGHT FALL 2023 15
