At the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ 103rd commencement, the first-ever graduates of the new degree, Master of Healthcare Management and Leadership (MHML), crossed the stage.
The Healthcare Management and Leadership program was established in February 2023 by the College of Business and Security Management to address the needs of healthcare organizations in Alaska and the Lower 48. This program includes a stand-alone graduate degree, MHML, a graduate certificate, and concentration within CBSM’s MBA, supporting student interests and needs through multiple formats.
Joseph O'Connor takes a selfie with Michael Powers, CEO of Tanana Valley Clinic.
Joseph O’Connor, has been a steady presence in Interior Alaska’s healthcare system. As the Sr. Director of Finance & Revenue Cycle at Foundation Health Partners, the largest hospital network in the region, he knows the ins and outs of healthcare from analytics to operations. Despite his professional success, he felt there was a piece missing.
To complete the puzzle, he enrolled in the MHML program, becoming one of the first graduates. The fully online program was designed for working professionals to combine their practical experience with a business framework.
Joseph during UAF's 103rd commencement after walking the stage for his MHML.
“I now regularly create space to question assumptions, integrate new knowledge, and pursue growth deliberately. The program didn't just provide knowledge—it fundamentally changed how I engage with challenges, turning operational intensity into opportunities for deeper learning and more effective leadership.” - Joseph O’Connor
The MHML allows professionals like O’Connor to connect with professionals, hearing diverse perspectives from various organizations in the healthcare industry. Through rigorous courses like Healthcare Law & Ethics and Strategic Leadership, students build confidence through tangible lessons that can be applied immediately.
MHML Program Director Arena Morillo-Herin.
“Recently, a student shared how they used what they learned in a course to lead a big change at work—it was clear the program was already having real-world impact. The MHML is about helping healthcare professionals step confidently into leadership roles— connecting clinical care with strategic decision-making and giving a full picture of what the industry entails and how all the pieces connect.” - Arena Morillo-Herin, MHML Program Director.
According to an article by the Alaska Beacon, the healthcare industry is the largest employer in the state, with over 44,000 workers, representing 11% of Alaska’s jobs. In the article, Jared Kosin, executive director of the Alaska Hospital and Healthcare Association, states that they need to recruit more than 9,400 workers annually.
“We saw a real need for strong leadership in healthcare and wanted to create a program that blends business skills with healthcare know-how. Healthcare is a massive industry and it was time that we had a full degree program here in the state. The first graduating cohort of students have been incredible people, students and leaders all around, and I am so excited to see them make a difference in Alaska’s community.” - Arena Morillo-Herin
To learn more about the MHML program, visit the MHML website, schedule an appointment with an advisor here, or contact program director, Arena Morillo-Herin at admorilloherrin@alaska.edu.
“My advice to future MHML students is to approach this program with both open minds and open hearts. Healthcare is not merely an industry—it's a tremendously rich tapestry of human experiences where you'll have the privilege to serve, lead, follow, and grow in ways you cannot yet imagine.” - Joseph O’Connor
Credits:
Story by Morrow Duszynski Photos by Joseph O'Connor UAF College of Business and Security Management