Patricia (Pat) Harger, Founding Member of the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST
What inspired you and other founders to establish the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST?
There were few women in health care leadership or high managerial positions in 1979. We were breaking new ground—juggling professional and personal/family responsibilities. The Eleven-fifteen Club gave us space to meet others facing similar challenges and offer a safe and fun place to share ideas and experiences. We developed a professional network that cut across the siloes of health care delivery, insurance, device manufacturing, governmental planning/oversight, and reporting to offer broader perspectives that benefited not only our professional lives but also community health and care initiatives.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders in health care who are just starting their careers?
Health and health care are critical to the communities we serve. While you are starting your professional life in one sector, keep in mind that you are preparing to improve people’s lives. Having a broad-based professional network will help shape your perspectives and performance as well as help you navigate that ephemeral balance of personal and professional life.
45th Anniversary of the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST
November 15 is a special date for the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST as we officially mark our 45th anniversary! On this date 45 years ago, the Eleven-fifteen Club was formed (named after the time of date the group met) and later renamed the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST.
Lynn Kiehne and Nancy Conlee Hart had the idea to form the group and Patricia (Pat) Harger was in a leadership position to step up and support the group as its first President the following spring. Thank you to Lynn, Nancy, Pat and all early founders of the TRUST!