"I love the program! I even enjoy the homework. If you are concerned about the direction of healthcare - how are we going to get there - wherever "there" is, this is the degree that will help you drive the train. We know that healthcare (HC) needs to change, what we are doing now is NOT working and tweaking the system is only putting a band-aid on the system and processes when the system needs major surgery. The MHI degree is for leaders, designed to prepare you as a leader to be the surgeon - to not just tweak the system but to develop and implement system-wide changes that WILL make a difference.
The instructors are known innovators in the field of HC, Kathy Malloch and Tim Porter-O'Grady just to name two that you meet in the very first weekend. The program is designed as a part-time or full-time program. I chose part-time as I just do not have the necessary time to attend full-time - if I did I would. Much of the work is done via the Internet. I appreciate the assignments (to date anyway) that don't just want you to regurgitate what you learned, but to apply it to real-life situations."
-- Suzanne R Anders, RN, CPHQ
August 2007
"As I am currently attending the summer session (3rd semester) of this program, I am overwhelmed by the opportunities I had once only dreamed of. I had investigated graduate programs for three years before choosing the MHI. Other degrees I had explored I found too generic (MSN), limited (MHA), traditional (MBA), boring (Law), or found I had no interest (NP). The MHI degree combines the exciting and essential components of the previously mentioned degrees, with an innovative “twist.” I have found that I am able to apply concepts learned immediately, not having to wait until I have “degree-in-hand” or “letters earned” to influence and impact those I interact with everyday.
Since joining the program in August, I have been asked “what are you going to do with this degree?” I tell them that I am going to change the world. I have had different career opportunities and have participated in developing a program that impacts the nursing shortage. The MHI faculty have inspired, facilitated, motivated and have guided our group into becoming entrepreneurs, and potential publication, national speaking and presentation opportunities. I would encourage anyone, in healthcare or not, to aspire to achieve this degree which will assist in making your dreams a reality and impact the future."
-- Crystal L. Jenkins RN, BSN
June 2007
"As we move toward the end to the second semester of this program I realize that embarking on this journey has been an incredible growth and learning experience. I have learned already how it important it is to be creative in healthcare and to take the steps necessary to move ideas into reality. Discussion with classmates often turn to our amazement of how we are thinking differently as a result of this program. Our MHI Instructors have been incredibly supportive and we are awed by their knowledge and experience. I have already put knowledge learned into practice and look forward to rest of the graduate program. I am learning both knowledge and tools to move my goals and healthcare organization forward into the future. I would recommend this journey to anyone who has the desire to be a transformation leader in healthcare."
-- Fredda Kermes, RN, BSN
April 2007
"In reference to the MHI program, my current perception is the ever present applicability of the program to the work environment. Through the work we are doing in the MHI program, there is always an opportunity to apply what we are learning in my current work situation. I often find myself eagerly discussing the program, actively seeking others who might be interested in joining the journey to effect innovative, positive changes within the healthcare system. Additionally, the diversity and expertise of the staff is inspiring and incredibly supportive. Their ability to effectively teach and role model innovative thinking and behaviors, makes the program even more tangible and applicable to the working environment.
I also appreciate the unique learning format of combining on site immersion sessions with online learning. This format allows for the energy of concentrated time together to ignite the focus for the online portion of the class. The concept of mentoring new students and sharing in their growth and progress has also been very rewarding. I am looking forward to our next session together and to the opportunity of assisting new students as they begin this very stimulating and rewarding journey!"
-- Tami Longo, RN, BSN
April 2007
"If you want to explore the infinite possibilities of innovation but are unsure how to get started on that road or you are already an innovator – you love change and you want to hone-in your skills to be more creative and effective in your current innovative role, the MHI program is a great fit.
The structure of this program allows flexibility and fosters entrepreneurship while the professors support growth, appreciate uniqueness and promote empowerment. I do not have a background in healthcare but through this program I am gaining the tools needed to apply the skills I have and enter the healthcare field. My scenario in the MHI program can be applied to any undergraduate discipline and the benefits of the program can be tailored to meet your specific goals."
-- Julie Mazzocco
April 2007
"This program is much more than I had hoped for. The leadership-innovation insights are phenomenal and have helped me better understand both who I am and where I want to go. The camaraderie with other students is surprisingly tight – despite being “online” much of the time. Top notch faculty who understand, challenge and lead – many management woes would not exist if this was an executive pre-requisite! I am not currently exclusively in the healthcare industry, and yet can apply all I have learned this first semester every day."
-- Dan Nienhauser, MBA
April 2007
"I was told that the people from “all walks of life” would participate in the program. The truth is, not one of us walks anywhere. Most of us conduct our lives at a run because we have lived and worked long enough to have complex existences.
The MHI Program grapples with the reality that we entered our field of studies as fully functioning professionals complete with convoluted commitments and multi-layered methodologies. We are not on a quest for an ivory tower existence. We want to impact the real world with real knowledge, and make a real difference."
-- Caryn Unterschuetz, RN, BSS
April 2007
