TRUST Associate Board

Lindsey Niswanger, MHA, MPH, VP Digital Experience, Prime Therapeutics

What’s your current role?

I’ve been with Prime Therapeutics for one year, supporting the consumer digital strategy, including our member portal, digital application programming interfaces (APIs) and member- and provider-facing cost transparency programs. I’ve spent most of my career in health care operations, leading several clinical service lines at Allina Health. Over my career, I’ve developed a passion for making health care more accessible and affordable. Digital tools offer a lot of promise on these fronts.

When did you join the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST and what roles have you held within the TRUST?

I formally joined the TRUST in early 2021, after many years of attending the Forum and other events. During the pandemic and civil unrest in the Twin Cities, I was compelled to support organizations uplifting women health care leaders serving in unprecedented conditions and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

I received great advice from a mentor upon joining the TRUST to take advantage of the membership by getting actively involved in committee work. Like many things in life, you get out of the TRUST what you put into it. I am currently the Chair of the Associate Board and a member of the Forum Committee. It’s been an amazing way to meet many talented women in other areas of the health care industry and form new professional contacts and friendships.

Do you have a favorite TRUST memory so far?

It’s been a refreshing transition back to in-person events, and the fall 2022 Well-being Retreat is among my favorite TRUST memories! We had a day and a half with speakers and facilitators related to mindfulness, movement, and resilience coordinated by several members of the Associate Board. Heading into the holidays, it was the perfect way to re-center and connect with leaders who acknowledge the importance of well-being in our personal and professional lives. I’m still sore from Adriene Thornton’s movement class, but already looking forward to the next Well-being Retreat!

How has a mentor helped you the most?

I’ve been fortunate to have several inspirational and dedicated mentors throughout my career. They have provided valuable guidance on challenging assignments or situations and served as a sounding board for new ideas. They have helped expand my professional network by connecting me to new contacts that offer fresh perspectives or insights. These mentors have also served as sponsors, aiding my career progression by providing visible stretch assignments that position me for that next step and opening doors for new opportunities.

What is the best career advice you’ve received?

A former dyad partner told me you couldn’t do it all, all of the time – that there would be times when career, family, health issue, or some other personal aspiration would need to take priority while the other things take a back seat – and that’s OK. I put enormous pressure on myself trying to do it all, and it’s given me a great sense of power (and relief) to focus on the things most important to me at different phases in my life.

How do you support other women in their leadership journey?

It’s important to me that women are represented in leadership roles, that we have a voice at the table, and that our contributions are recognized. Recently, I’ve had the opportunity to support the TRUST Forum Awards, which recognizes women for their efforts to disrupt and advance the health care field. I’ve been inspired (and humbled) by the incredible contributions of women in leadership, innovation, community engagement, health and well-being, and collaboration and partnerships – right here in our local health care community.

And a shameless plug, with the next annual Forum Event coming up in April 2023, please consider nominating a woman leader in your network for one of these prestigious awards!

How do you maintain or improve your health and well-being?

Maintaining well-being is extremely important to me, and I’m always looking for new ways to incorporate healthy activities into my daily routine. After the past few years of exercising at home, I’m venturing back to a gym for group fitness classes, incorporating more yoga and strength training. And I love to cook, so I prioritize healthy meals at home with my family.