By Joy King, 2025 TRUST President
As we head into the heart of summer, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for something that has always been at the core of our community: the power of connection.
Networking isn’t just something we do at the TRUST—it’s who we are. Every handshake, conversation and shared story at our events builds a stronger, more supportive network of women leaders in health care. And it’s not surface-level, transactional networking. The connections formed here are meaningful and lasting. They lead to new collaborations, new opportunities, and often, lifelong friendships.
In fact, when we ask new members why they joined the TRUST, the answer we hear most often is, “I’m here to connect with other women who understand what it’s like to lead in health care.” That’s powerful. And it’s why we continue to invest in a wide range of networking events that meet you where you are—virtually, in person, one-on-one or in larger gatherings.
Whether you’re brand new to the TRUST or a longtime member, I encourage you to make time for connection this summer. Here are a few simple tips to help you get the most out of every networking opportunity:
- Be curious, not just connected. Ask meaningful questions. People remember conversations where they felt truly seen and heard.
- Lead with generosity. Offer help before asking for it. Introduce others. Share resources. The best networks grow from a spirit of giving.
- Don’t underestimate the follow-up. A quick note or LinkedIn connection afterward can spark a more meaningful relationship.
- Show up with intention. Whether it’s a happy hour or a lunch session, come ready to engage, not just attend.
And, of course, we’ve got a full calendar of summer events designed to bring us together in inspiring ways. From virtual coffee chats to small-group conversations and our member-favorite Boat Cruise on July 31, there’s something for everyone. This year, we’re touring the Mississippi River on the Minneapolis Queen river boat. If you’ve never been on our boat cruise, this is the year to hop aboard—it’s a one-of-a-kind evening filled with laughter and the kind of conversations that linger long after the dock.
You can find the complete list of upcoming events on our website. I hope you’ll join us to deepen your connections and be part of something bigger than yourself.
Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Every one of you makes the TRUST stronger!
Bottom of FormJoy King serves as the 2025 TRUST President and is the CEO of the Animal Humane Society (AHS), one of the nation’s leading animal welfare organizations. Prior to AHS, Joy spent nine years at NMDP (formerly the National Marrow Donor Program and Be the Match), where she was Chief Advancement Officer and Executive Director of the NMDP Foundation. Joy spent 16 years in leadership roles at the American Cancer Society, ultimately serving as Senior Vice President of Operations for the organization’s Midwest division. Joy has served on the board of Kappa Delta Chi Sorority Inc.’s Emerald Foundation and Jeremiah Program. She has been recognized by the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal as a 2015 Women in Business, Twin Cities Business Magazine’s Best In Class Healthcare Executives, Greenspring’s 500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in Minnesota, and Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives.