Rising stars: 86 ASC leaders under 40

Here are 86 leaders younger than 40 years of age have already made an impact on the ASC industry. This list was compiled in fall 2016.

If you would like to recommend another leader for this list, contact Anuja Vaidya at avaidya@beckershealthcare.com.

David Aguayo, Surgical Care Affiliates (Deerfield, Ill.). Mr. Aguayo joined Surgical Care Affiliates in 2015 as vice president, strategic partnerships and innovation. In this role, he is focused on creating and launching collaborative initiatives with health plans across the United States, creating value and efficiency throughout the surgical delivery system. Prior to his tenure at SCA, David had a variety of growth and client management roles at health plans, including Anthem, Health Net, Kaiser and Aetna, where he was responsible for developing partnerships with national employers and health care consulting firms.

Scott Allen, National Medical Billing Services (St. Louis). Mr. Allen is the vice president of managed care contracting at National Medical Billing Services, an ASC revenue cycle company. In this role, he implements operating procedures, analyzes rates and oversees all other aspects of ASC managed care contracts. Outside of National Medical Billing Services, Mr. Allen's ASC industry involvement includes lobbying on Capitol Hill for the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association.

Katie Arnold, Metro Specialty Surgery Center (Jeffersonville, Ind.). Ms. Arnold is the administrator of Metro Specialty Surgery Center. The center has two operating and procedure rooms and is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care.

Curtis H. Bernstein, CPA/ABV, ASA, CVA, MBA, Pinnacle Healthcare Consulting (Centennial, Colo.). Mr. Bernstein is a principal at Pinnacle Healthcare Consulting, a healthcare consulting company. He also serves as the vice chair of programming for the American Bar Association Health Law Transactions Interest Group and the vice chair of American Health Lawyers Association FMV Affinity Group. Prior to joining Pinnacle Healthcare Consulting, Mr. Bernstein was the managing director of valuation services for Altegra Health.

Sara Bressman, SurgCenter Development (Pismo Beach, Calif.). Ms. Bressman is the executive vice president of operations at SurgCenter Development. She leads the operations division of more than 95 facilities and has helped to contribute to the successful licensure of more than 50 of those centers. She has experience running operations for neurosurgery and orthopedic practices.

Dustin L. Briggs, Advanced Surgical Institute (Orange County, Calif.). Mr. Briggs is the director of operations at the Advanced Surgical Institute in Huntington Beach, Calif. His responsibilities at the company include business development, contract negotiations and front office management. Prior to joining the Advanced Surgical Institute, he served as the surgical technology program director at American Career College, an organization that provides educational opportunities to students in California.

Bethany Bueno, Pinnacle III (Lakewood, Colo.). Ms. Bueno is the director of billing operations for Specialty Billing Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Pinnacle III. She joined Pinnacle III in 2009 as a cash receipts analyst and was promoted to cash receipts manager in 2012. In July 2015, she assumed her current role as director overseeing the organization's coding, billing, and cash management departments.

Jessica Cave, Harbor Heights Surgery Center (National Harbor, Md.). Ms. Cave is the clinical administrator at Harbor Heights Surgery Center. She has worked in the healthcare field for more than 10 years, in roles spanning administrative and nursing duties. Prior to joining Harbor Heights Surgery Center, Ms. Cave served as an orthopedic, spine and podiatry coordinator for an operating room at the Virginia-based healthcare organization Sentara Healthcare, where she also worked as a clinical lead RN.

Briley Cienkosz, Laser Spine Institute (Tampa, Fla.). As chief marketing officer, Ms. Cienkosz is an integral member of Laser Spine Institute. She strives to ensure that potential, current and past patients receive the most up-to-date information about Laser Spine Institute. Throughout her tenure at Laser Spine Institute, Ms. Cienkosz has been an integral part of implementing the company's first DRTV (direct response television) campaign.  

Valerie Colosimo, SurgCenter of Glen Burnie (Md.). Ms. Colosimo is the administrator at SurgCenter of Glen Burnie, an outpatient center that provides a variety of surgical treatments, including joint replacement. The center has 25 physicians on staff, whose specialties include otolaryngology, orthopedics and podiatry, among other medical disciplines.

Jill Davis, Advanced Surgery Center of Bethesda (Md.). Ms. Davis is the nurse administrator of the Advanced Surgery Center of Bethesda. The multispecialty center includes orthopedics, ophthalmology, urology and many specialties. The center has 19 physicians on staff and was accredited by the AAAHC.

Brooke Day, Hastings (Neb.) Surgical Center. Ms. Day is an administrator at Hastings Surgical Center, a multispecialty ASC. In this role, she manages the center, ensuring compliance with CMS standards and regulations. Prior to joining Hastings Surgical Center, she served as the CEO of Blake Woods Medical Park Surgery Center, an ASC in Jackson, Mich.

Jill DeMoss, Heartland Clinic (Moline, Ill.). Ms. DeMoss is the director of business operations at Heartland Clinic, a comprehensive healthcare clinic in Moline, Ill. In this role, she oversees the revenue cycle for a laboratory, surgery center and six physician practices, including billing, coding and patient collections. Prior to joining Heartland Clinic, she served as the director of business office operations for Blue Chip Surgical Center Partners, where she managed the business offices of 16 surgery centers.

Jennifer Eason, SurgCenter Development (Pismo Beach, Calif.). Ms. Eason is the vice president of oeprations-Northeast region for SurgCenter Development. She started at the center in 2014 as the regional director of operations. Before her tenure at SurgCenter, she was a group administrator at Surgical Care Affiliates in Deerfield, Ill., for 12 years. She obtained her degree in nursing from the MacQueen Gibbs Willis School of Nursing. She was a registered nurse in the Shore Health System for more than two years.

Jessica Edmiston, National Medical Billing Services (St. Louis). Ms. Edmiston is the senior vice president of performance review at National Medical Billing Services, an ASC revenue cycle company. In this role, she codes audits for the company's clients and identifies compliance issues. Ms. Edmiston, a certified ASC coder, also leads a team of surgery center and medical practice coders.

Ryan Fulcher, Laser Spine Institute (Tampa, Fla.). As senior vice president of operations, Mr. Fulcher oversees the day-to-day operations of all of Laser Spine Institute's seven facilities. He works relentlessly to ensure that all patients have a smooth experience from the moment they enter Laser Spine Institute to when they return home. Mr. Fulcher has a unique lens into the patient process at Laser Spine Institute, as he started as a patient care coordinator in 2009. He eventually transitioned into the leadership roles of director of medical operations and then to vice president.

Tracie Hark, MBA, CASC, Northeast Missouri ASC (Hannibal). Ms. Dalton is the administrator of Northeast Missouri ASC, a freestanding multispecialty surgical facility. In this role, she oversees the center's facility, contracts, financial reports and policy procedure. Prior to joining Northeast Missouri ASC, she spent seven years working at a rural hospital, where she first served as the controller, before being promoted to CFO.

Daniel C. Hauer, CASC, Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center (St Charles, Ill.). Mr. Hauer joined the Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center team in 2015 as administrator. The center opened in 1987. It encompasses more than 32,000 square feet and festures seven operating rooms, one procedure room and nine beds in its attached recovery center. The ASC averages over 6,500 cases annually and hosts a total joint replacement program. The center is accredited by the AAAHC and has over 150 physicians on staff.

Steve Henry, CASC, MBA, Surgery Center at Liberty (Mo.) Hospital. Mr. Henry serves as the administrator at Surgery Center at Liberty Hospital, a multispecialty ASC that includes orthopedic, gynecologic and podiatric care. Prior to joining Surgery Center at Liberty Hospital, he served as the administrator at the Nebraska-based Fremont Surgical Center and as the administrator at the Osage Beach, Mo.-based Surgical Institute of Lake of the Ozarks.

Jeff Hignite, ECG Management Consultants (Seattle). Mr. Hignite is a consulting manager in the ambulatory surgery practice of ECG Management Consultants, a national healthcare management consulting firm. In this role, he works with ASC and health system clients focusing on surgery strategies including M&A transaction services, value creation through payor contracting as well as service line and specialty expansion. Prior to joining ECG, Mr. Hignite served as director of managed care at Deerfield, Ill.-based Surgical Care Affiliates. He has also previously held roles with UnitedHealthcare and Humana in contracting and network management capacities.

Jessica Hill, Bear Creek Surgery Center (Keller, Texas). Ms. Hill is the administrator at Bear Creek Surgery Center, a multispecialty ASC. The center has 13 physicians on staff, whose specialties include otolaryngology, orthopedics and podiatry, among other medical disciplines. Prior to joining Bear Creek, Ms. Hill served as the chief nursing officer and the vice president of patient care services at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southlake.

Heather Hilgendorf-Cooley, MBA, Spring Park Surgery Center (Davenport, Iowa). Ms. Hilgendorf-Cooley is the administrator of Spring Park Surgery Center, an ASC in Davenport, Iowa. The center serves a range of specialties, including anesthesiology, ophthalmology and urology. Ms. Hilgendorf-Cooley has served Spring Park Surgery Center in her current position since May 2013.

W. Justin Horne, Laser Spine Institute (Tampa, Fla.). As chief administration officer, Mr. Horne oversees the development of employees through recruitment, education, career growth, engagement, benefits and performance evaluation. Having joined the team in 2006, Mr. Horne has a firm understanding of Laser Spine Institute's goals and works to ensure that each teammate is effectively equipped to interact with patients to provide the best care.

Stephen Houry, Pinnacle III (Lakewood, Colo.). Mr. Houry is the senior marketing strategist for Pinnacle III. He leads corporate marketing initiatives designed to expand Pinnacle III's brand presence. Prior to joining Pinnacle III, Mr. Houry led healthcare business development for Fathom, one of the largest private digital marketing agencies in the country. He also possesses more than five years of sales and marketing experience.

Jennifer Hunara, MHA, MBA, Surgery Center of Allentown (Pa.). Ms. Hunara is the administrator of Surgery Center of Allentown, a freestanding ASC. She has been with the center since it opened in 2007. Prior to joining Surgery Center of Allentown, she served as the executive director of surgical services at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, N.J., and as the business manager of perioperative services at Lehigh Valley Health Network in Allentown.

Jamie Jackson, Leonardtown (Md.) Surgery Center. Ms. Jackson has been the nurse administrator at Leonardtown Surgery Center for five years. She was with the center since its development phase and has stayed with it since it became operational in December 2011. She has a total of 16 years of nursing experience and is CNOR certified and is a registered nurse first assistant.

Christina Jones, SurgCenter of Orange Park (Fla.). Ms. Jones is the administrator at SurgCenter of Orange Park. She has more than 20 years of nursing and leadership experience, in which she has acquired clinical management, policy development and quality assurance expertise. Prior to joining SurgCenter of Orange Park, Ms. Jones served as the director of perioperative services at Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, an acute-care hospital in Davenport, Fla.

Lindsay Joseph, National Medical Billing Services (St. Louis). Ms. Joseph is the executive vice president of operations at National Medical Billing Services, an ASC revenue cycle company. In this role, she oversees the company's 500 employees. Ms. Joseph has worked with independent centers, joint ventures and management companies, including centers handling more than 1,900 monthly cases and companies with more than 65 locations. Her expertise includes ASC software management applications and practice management systems.

Kylie Kaczor, RN, Laser Spine Institute (St. Louis). Ms. Kaczor is the executive director of Laser Spine Institute's St. Louis facility. In her role, Ms. Kaczor is responsible for ensuring that every patient who visits Laser Spine Institute St. Louis receives the best care possible. She also holds a Master of Science degree in nursing from Drexel University in Philadelphia and is a registered nurse.

Jonathan Katz, MBA, BSN, RN, Columbia River Surgery Center (Portland, Ore.). Mr. Katz is the administrator at Columbia River Surgery Center. He joined the center this past June, after leaving the Salem-based Oregon Specialists Surgery Center, where he also served as the administrator. Prior to his involvement in the surgical industry, Mr. Katz worked as a banker, EMT, lab researcher and circulating nurse.

Kathy Kelly, Viewmont Surgery Center (Hickory, N.C.). Ms. Kelly is the administrator of the Nueterra-affiliated Viewmont Surgery Center, a 7,500-square-foot facility specializing in oral, otolaryngologic, orthopedic, hand and podiatric surgical care. In this role, she manages all aspects of the facility's operations. Prior to joining the center, Ms. Kelly served as a scheduling coordinator, operating room RN and surgical tech at Catawba Valley Medical Center.

Lindsey Kroenke, Saint Luke's South Surgery Center (Overland Park, Kan.). Ms. Kroenke is the administrator of the Nueterra-affiliated Saint Luke's South Surgery Center, a specialized surgical facility that includes gynecological, GI and orthopedic care. Prior to joining Saint Luke's South Surgery Center, she served as the administrator of a 5,000-square-foot surgery center. Ms. Kroenke has more than a decade of nursing experience, including working with the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha and Surgery Center of Gilbert in Mesa, Ariz.

Agnes Labatete, Surgical Specialty Center (Mid-Atlantic in Bethesda, Md.). Ms. Labatete is the business administrator at Surgical Specialty Center of Mid Atlantic, an outpatient center focused on orthopedic and spine surgery. In this role, she manages the operating budget, negotiates contracts and ensures policy compliance. Prior to joining Surgical Specialty Center of Mid Atlantic, Ms. Labatete served as a practice manager at Trifactive Premium Sports Injury & Pain Clinic in Chicago.

Jared Leger, Arise Healthcare (Austin, Texas). Mr. Leger is the co-founder and CEO of Arise Healthcare, a healthcare management company that focuses on operating outpatient vascular labs. He has extensive experience in healthcare business, including finance, mergers and operations, and has even worked as a registered nurse. Outside of his leadership role in Arise Healthcare, Mr. Leger also owns a real-estate investment company in Austin, Texas.

Heidi Lenderking, Laser Spine Institute (Scottsdale, Ariz.). Ms. Lenderking is the executive director of Laser Spine Institute's Scottsdale facility, where she is responsible for leading the team that helps patients find relief from their neck and back pain. Between planning, development, delegation, compliance regulation and budgeting, Ms. Lenderking and her team have one goal: maintain the best practices for patient safety and satisfaction.

Stephanie Leventis, SurgCenter Development (Pismo Beach, Calif.). Ms. Leventis has been the vice president of development at SurgCenter Development since 2007. She has been involved with development and operations of more than 75 centers. She previously ran the neurosurgical operating room service at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, Md.

Mark Lindberg, Laser Spine Institute (Tampa, Fla.). As senior executive director for Laser Spine Institute Tampa, Mr. Lindberg oversees the organization's largest facility with a commitment to providing patients with exceptional service and care. That dedication has been constant throughout his career, which spans more than 20 years in operations management. Mr. Lindberg has held several positions at Laser Spine Institute, including executive director for its Philadelphia center, which repeatedly earned a National Apex Quality Award for Exceptional Patient Satisfaction. Under his leadership in 2015, the Philadelphia facility became the first ASC in the world to earn Gold-level Planetree designation.

Bill Linder, Surgical Care Affiliates (Deerfield, Ill.). Mr. Linder is a vice president of operations for Surgical Care Affiliates, a position he's held since January of 2014. In his role, he focuses on surgery center/surgical hospital partnerships and strategic planning across multiple states. Previously, he's held leadership roles in sales and business development at Harden Healthcare (post-acute provider acquired by Gentiva) and Apria Healthcare (national DME provider). He holds an MBA from DePaul University.

Amy Maddox, SurgCenter Development (Pismo Beach, Calif.). Ms. Maddox is director of business analytics at SurgCenter Development. Before her tenure with SurgCenter she was the business office manager of Cherry Creek Surgery Center and the practice and the billing manager of Central Tennessee Ear, Nose and Throat. She earned her degree in business administration from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn.

Sarah Malaniak, CASC, Ambulatory Center for Endoscopy (North Bergen, N.J.). Ms. Malaniak is the administrator at Ambulatory Center for Endoscopy, a gastrointestinal-focused outpatient healthcare facility. In this role, she oversees all operations for the center, including business, clinical and financial responsibilities. Ms. Malaniak began her healthcare career in 1998, as the business manager for another gastroenterology practice, Advanced Gastroenterology of Bergen County.

Gary Mancini, Laser Spine Institute (Tampa, Fla.). As the vice president of spine care services, Mr. Mancini is responsible for supporting Laser Spine Institute's care team, ensuring each patient receives top-notch care. He has steadily risen within the organization since joining Laser Spine Institute in 2010 as a spine care consultant. One of his greatest joys comes from helping patients and Laser Spine Institute teammates excel.

Jason Marnin, SurgCenter Development (Pismo Beach, Calif.). Mr. Marnin has been the director of construction and physical plant management at SurgCenter Development since May 2012. He has overseen the design and construction of 77 centers that are either operational or in development. He earned his bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla, and he has more than 17 years of experience in the field.

Kara Marshall Newbury, Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (Alexandria, Va.). Ms. Newbury is the regulatory counsel at Ambulatory Surgery Center Association of Washington D.C. She has served in that role for nearly five years. Before joining the ASCA she was the assistant director of state government affairs at the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations. Ms. Newbury received her law degree from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law.  

Jack Mast, Pinnacle III (Lakewood, Colo.). Mr. Mast is the physician liaison for Pinnacle III. He leads the organization's efforts in new physician recruitment, successful onboarding and facility marketing initiatives that enhance their online and community presence. He also works with physicians to monitor and grow case volumes based on the needs of their target patient populations. Prior to joining Pinnacle III, Mr. Mast worked for Stanford (Calif.) University's athletic department.

Jareen Mathew, MBA, National Medical Billing Services (St. Louis). Mr. Mathew is the vice president of operations at National Medical Billing Services, an ASC revenue cycle company. In this role, he works with multifacility clients by incorporating new technology and communication systems. Prior his position as vice president of operations, Mr. Mathew served as the vice president of RCM services and EHR solutions for seven years, where he managed more than 1,000 employees.

Jebby Mathew, MBA, MHA, Pinnacle III (Lakewood, Colo.). Mr. Mathew is a director of operations for Pinnacle III and administrator of The Orthopaedic and Spine Center of Southern Colorado in Colorado Springs. Mr. Mathew focuses on enhancing operational efficiencies, developing collaborative solutions and directing major initiatives to support critical clinical business processes. He is a member of American Council of Healthcare Executives and Management Group Medical Association. Prior to joining Pinnacle III, he was the administrator of Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in Houston.

Jennifer Mays, Hampden Surgery Center (Denver). Ms. Mays is the administrator of the Hampden Surgery Center. The center performs a variety of procedures and is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. The center has 10 physicians on staff.

Emily McCarthy, SurgCenter Development (Pismo Beach, Calif.). Ms. McCarthy is the vice president of business intelligence and analytics. She is in charge of the business analytics and managed care teams. She has brought more than 14 years of experience in ASC development and operations to SurgCenter.

Colin McDermott, CFA, CPA/ABV, VMG Health (Dallas). Mr. McDermott is the managing director of VMG Health. He specializes in providing financial, valuation and transaction advisory services to clients of the healthcare industry. Prior to his tenure at VMG, Mr. McDermott was the director of the forensic and litigation consulting group of FTI Consulting.

Kevin McDonough, VMG Health (Dallas). Mr. McDonough is the managing director of VMG Health. During his time at VMG, he has provided valuation, transaction advisory, feasibility and operational consulting services to the firm's clients. Additionally, he helps to lead the firm's life sciences practices, providing valuation services related to medical device and pharmaceutical consulting arrangements. Mr. McDonough earned his degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

Melissa McSherry, Munster (Ind.) Specialty Surgery Center. Ms. McSherry has been the nurse administrator of Munster Specialty Surgery Center since 2012. Before her tenure at the center, she was at St. Catherine Hospital for more than 12 years. She started at the hospital as the circulator and orthopedic/spine team leader, and eventually became the charge nurse of surgery.

Kristy Minatto, Wisconsin Specialty Surgery Center (Kenosha). Ms. Minatto is the administrator at the Wisconsin Specialty Surgery Center. The center is a Medicare-certified and Joint Commission-accredited facility specializing in orthopedic, ENT and gynecological services. The center has ten physicians on staff.

Nikki Mohr, Surgcenter of Deer Valley (Phoenix). Ms. Mohr is the administrator at Surgcenter of Deer Valley and the OR circulator at SurgCenter Camelback, also in Phoenix. Prior to joining the center, she served as the clinical director at the Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Center of Paradise Valley, also in Phoenix. She entered the healthcare industry through her background in nursing; she worked as a nurse at the Phoenix-based health system Banner Health in 2012 and earned her associate's degree from the Arizona-based Scottsdale Community College in 2007.
 
Arvind Movva, MD, Gastroenterology Consultants (Moline, Ill.). Dr. Movva joined the practice upon completion of his fellowship in gastroenterology in 2010. He is now the clinic's CEO. He offers patients a full range of gastroenterology care and procedures including ERCP/EUS, hemorrhoidal banding and cures for Barrett's esophagus. Dr. Movva received his medical degree from The Chicago Medical School. He completed an internship and a residency at the University of Illinois Medical Center before his fellowship in gastroenterology and hepatology at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta.

Teri Mulka, RN, Garrett Eye-Cataract Surgical Center-Superior Eye Laser (Iron Mountain, Mich.). Ms. Mulka is the surgery center director at Garrett Eye-Cataract Surgical Center-Superior Eye Laser. The two-physician practice focuses on cataract surgeries, glaucoma treatment, corneal transplants, refractive procedures and other ophthalmic procedures. She is a registered nurse who has served as the clinical director for nearly four years. She oversees and participates in every aspect of the center's operation, including regulatory compliance and day-to-day patient interaction.

Chris Murphy, Advanced Regional Surgery Center (Jeffersonville, Ind.). Mr. Murphy is the administrator at Advanced Regional Surgery Center, a multispecialty ASC. The center has 18 physicians on staff, whose specialties include otolaryngology, orthopedics and pain management. Advanced Regional Surgery Center was established in 2012, and has been performing surgeries since 2013.

Melissa Murphy, RN, BSN, Mile High Surgery Center (Greenwood Village, Colo.). Ms. Murphy is the nurse administrator at Mile High Surgery Center, a multispecialty ASC. The center, which spans more than 7,000 square feet, has 14 physicians on staff. Specialties at the center include orthopedics, oculoplastics and spine surgery, among other medical disciplines.

Aaron Murski, VMG Health (Dallas). Mr. Murski is a managing director at VMG Health. In the position his focus has been on developing client relationships and providing valuation, transaction advisory and operational consulting services to the healthcare services industry. He is the lead research associate and collaborator in the Intellimarker Multi-Specialty ASC Benchmarking Study that VMG publishes annually. He received his bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University in College Station. He is a designated certified valuation analyst and is pursuing a chartered financial analyst designation from the CFA Institute.

Jamie Nurenberg, Red Cedar Surgery Center (Lansing, Mich.). Ms. Nurenberg is an administrator at Red Cedar Surgery Center. The center opened in 2016, and is more than 8,300 square feet. It has one operating room and two minimally invasive surgery procedure rooms. The center was accredited by the Joint Commission and has 12 physicians on staff.

Gurjeet Parmar, CPA, CASC, Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center (New York City). Mr. Parmar has been the executive director of Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center for six years. Before that he was a tax accountant at CPAS Taxes and Associates for three years. Mr. Parmar received his bachelor's degree in accounting from City University of New York, Queens College. GPDDC has 11 physicians on staff and is an AAAHC-accredited facility.
 
Amber Patterson, Sleep Apnea Treatment Centers of America (Douglas, Ga.). Ms. Patterson has been the CFO/COO of Sleep Apnea Treatment Centers of America since June 2014. She specializes in financing, business development, management and several other areas. Before accepting the position she served as the administrator for Westside Surgery Center in Douglas.

Royce Pickett, SurgCenter of Plano (Texas). Mr. Pickett is the nurse administrator at SurgCenter of Plano, a multispecialty ASC. The center has nine physicians on staff, whose specialties include otolaryngology, orthopedics and sports medicine, among other medical disciplines. Prior to joining SurgCenter of Plano, Mr. Pickett served as the director of surgical services at the Texas Institute for Surgery in Dallas.

Jessica Quick, MBA, Colon and Rectal Surgery (Omaha). Ms. Quick has been the administrator at Colon and Rectal Surgery since October 2011. Before that, she was the central business office manager at OAIC-Health Inventures. Ms. Quick graduated with a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She then received her master's degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She earned her CMPE certification in May 2016. She is a member of the Nebraska Association of Independent Ambulatory Centers.

Amy M. Reighard, RN, MSN, Allegheny Regional Endoscopy (Altoona, Pa.). Ms. Reighard has been the administrator at Allegheny Regional Endoscopy since October 2014. Before that she served as the clinical director. She is a nurse with additional certification in gastroenterology.

Rachel Riedel, MHA, Sunset Ridge Surgery Center (Las Vegas). Ms. Riedel is the administrator at Sunset Ridge Surgery Center, a multispecialty ASC. The center has 11 physicians on staff, whose specialties include orthopedics, podiatry and plastic surgery, among other medical disciplines.

Michael Rock, National Medical Billing Services (St. Louis). Mr. Rock is the vice president of operations at National Medical Billing Services. He has been with the company since 2006, starting in accounts receivable. Mr. Rock implements Lean and Six Sigma principles throughout the company and looks to eliminate unnecessary spending. He holds an A+ certification and a lean six sigma black belt certification. From 2009 to 2010 Mr. Rock was a contractor for the Department of Defense in Iraq working on communications for the U.S. Army.

Trista Sandoval, Pinnacle III (Lakewood, Colo.). Ms. Sandoval is the director of business development and physician relations for Pinnacle III. She develops and creates marketing strategies and develops new business opportunities for Pinnacle III as well as the organization's managed facilities. Ms. Sandoval has worked in healthcare for over seven years, including her previous role in marketing and physician relations for a large, privately owned gastroenterology practice in Colorado.

Phillip Santillanes, FACHE, Medical Center Ophthalmology Associates (San Antonio). Mr. Santillanes is the CEO of San Antonio-based Medical Center Ophthalmology Associates. Before accepting the position in January 2015, he served as the executive center director for the specialty surgery center, in San Antonio. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a certified ASC administrator. Mr. Santillanes attended the University of New Mexico for his bachelor's degree and he has earned his master's in healthcare administration from Wayland Baptist University.

Simon Schwartz, Strategic Resources Group (Englewood, Colo.). Mr. Schwartz is the owner and COO of Strategic Resources Group. The company's services include administrative/communications, events and public policy support for numerous ASCs. Mr. Schwartz is also an associate executive director for the Colorado and Oregon Ambulatory Surgery Center Association. He has received many honors throughout his career.

Alex Scott, Hudson Crossing Surgery Center (Fort Lee, N.J.). Mr. Scott is an administrator at Hudson Cross Surgery Center. He started at the center in May 2015after spending time as administrator at Surgical Specialists at Princeton. He received his bachelor's degree from Gainesville-based University of Florida and then went to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for his master's degree in marketing and operations.

Cullen Scott, Northwest Hills Surgical Hospital (Austin, Texas). As CEO of SCA-affiliated Northwest Hills Surgical Hospital, Mr. Scott guides the strategic direction and management of hospital activities in alignment with the medical staff. Since joining SCA in 2013, he has guided a team of clinicians who achieved 5-star status from CMS for patient experience in 2014. Mr. Scott previously served as associate administrator with Tenet Healthcare at Park Plaza Hospital in Houston for six years, where he focused on business development, physician relations and ancillary operations. Mr. Scott holds a master's degree in healthcare administration from Trinity University in San Antonio and a master's degree in biology from the University of Texas San Antonio.    

Rich Searles, Merritt Healthcare (Ridgefield, Conn.). Mr. Searles has been a partner with Merritt Healthcare since 2008. He is a registered investment banking agent, and he graduated from Wake Forest University with a bachelor's degree in economics. Mr. Searles' focus is now in the development and management of ASCs. Additionally he has an interest in de novo and existing outpatient facilities, hospital outpatient departments and practice management.

Michael Sengmanivong, Doctors Outpatient Center for Surgery (Beverly Hills, Calif.). Mr. Sengmanivong has been the administrator for Doctors Outpatient Center for Surgery since January 2010. He received his bachelor's in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and worked in the healthcare industry since May 2008. He has several areas of interest in his career, and he offers consulting services for surgical centers in the Los Angeles area.

Erica Sheldon, Laser Spine Institute (Cleveland). Ms. Sheldon is the director of operations at Laser Spine Institute's Cleveland location. She plays a vital role in helping to ensure smooth processes are in place and that patients receive quality care. Ms. Sheldon joined Laser Spine Institute in 2012 as a patient experience coordinator, but quickly rose to associate executive director of Laser Spine Institute Philadelphia. She has been with the organization's Cleveland facility since it opened in late 2014.

Chandler Shirer, Franciscan Surgery Center (Indianapolis). Mr. Shirer is a CASC-certified, administrator at the Franciscan Surgery Center and executive director of the St. Francis Mooresville Surgery Center, both joint ventures with Franciscan Alliance. He oversaw the expansion of Franciscan Surgery Center, which now includes eight operating rooms and one procedure room. Mr. Shirer also serves as a board member on the Indiana Federation of Ambulatory Surgery Centers. He is in the process of obtaining his masters degree and expects to have it complete by mid-October.

Chris D. Skagen, JD, Strategic Resources Group (Englewood, Colo.). Mr. Skagen has been the CEO of Strategic Resources Group Colorado since 2010 and is a consultant for Puget Sound Surgical Center in Edmonds, Wash. Additionally, he is a licensed and practicing attorney in the state of Colorado. He is the executive director at both the Colorado and the Oregon Ambulatory Surgery Center Associations. Mr. Skagen earned his doctor of law degree in master of environmental law and policy from Vermont Law School.

Brooke Smith, Maryland Surgery Center for Women (Rockville). Ms. Smith turned Maryland Surgery Center for Women into a professional facility. She has increased collections while decreasing the center's days in A/R. She also has led a pilot program for online pre-surgical admission, trialing the program for presentation to the center's management company, Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America, for consideration among 30 other ASCs. Her cost savings in 2010 alone added up to $110,000.

Misty Smith, Timonium (Md.) Surgery Center. Ms. Smith has been the nurse administrator at the Timonium Surgery Center since 2010. Before her tenure at the center she was a nurse at Columbia, Md.-based MedStar Health. She earned her bachelor's degree from Villa Julie College.

John Stewart, Millennium Medical (Melbourne, Fla.). Mr. Stewart has been the vice president of Millennium Medical since 2014. The management group oversees four orthopedic, spine and wellness clinics. He is also vice president of AAAHC-accredited Surgery Center of Viera in Melbourne. Before his tenure at Millennium, Mr. Stewart earned his bachelor's degree in political science and government from Auburn (Ala.) University. He has more than 13 years of business development and management experience.

Erin Stiver, SurgCenter Development (Pismo Beach, Calif.). Ms. Stiver is a special projects assistant for SurgCenter Development. She has been with the company for more than 10 years. Her work focuses on partnership transactions, divestitures and acquisitions in addition to coordinating projects.

Rachael Trujillo, SurgCenter of Castle Rock (Colo.). Ms. Trujillo is the business administrator at SurgCenter of Castle Rock, a multispecialty ASC. The center has eight physicians on staff, whose specialties include orthopedics, podiatry and pain management. Prior to joining SurgCenter of Castle Rock, Ms. Trujillo served as a credentialing specialist at an orthopedic and sports medicine practice.
 
Tabitha Vaughn, RN, Patient Partners Surgery Center (Gallatin, Tenn.). Ms. Vaughn has been the administrator at Patient Partners Surgery Center, since May 2016. Before then she was the RN administrator/clinical director at the St. Charles Surgery Center. She is a member of several professional organizations including the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators. Ms. Vaughn attended Western Governors University Missouri for her bachelor's degree. Additionally, she is ACLS certified by the American Heart Association.

Neil Walker, Surgical Care Affiliates (Deerfield, Ill.). Mr. Walker serves as vice president of development for Surgical Care Affiliates. Mr. Walker has over 15 years of experience in the healthcare services industry with previous experience and positions held in accounting, finance, operations and development. Mr. Walker leads and supports the M&A process of the organization by working with both internal and external clients to ensure SCA capital is being deployed efficiently and effectively as SCA becomes the partner of choice. Mr. Walker holds a degree in health services administration with a minor in business from Auburn University.

Kandice Wankel, Potomac View Surgery Center (Oxon Hill, Md.). Ms. Wankel is the administrator at Potomac View Surgery Center, a multispecialty ASC. The center has 15 physicians on staff, whose specialties include otolaryngology, orthopedics and spine surgery.

Brianna Williams, Surgcenter of the Potomac (Rockville, Md.). Ms. Williams is the business administrator at Surgcenter of the Potomac, a multispecialty ASC. The center has seven physicians on staff, whose specialties include gastroenterology, gynecology and plastic surgery, among other medical disciplines. Prior to joining Surgcenter of the Potomac, Ms. Williams served as an analyst for measure validation at the healthcare accreditation company NCQA.

Liam Woodard, Laser Spine Institute (Cleveland). Mr. Woodard oversees Laser Spine Institute's Cleveland facility as the executive director. As a former NCAA baseball coach, he views his work at Laser Spine Institute Cleveland as an opportunity to coach a healthcare team. Mr. Woodard's passion for team-based development and unwavering commitment to the healthcare industry allows him to bring a unique game plan to the organization’s patient-centered care model.

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