Featured TRUST Member
Rosemond Sarpong Owens, MPH/CDM
Director – Racial & Health Equity Integration, Blue Cross Blue Shield Minnesota
As part of her role, Rosemond Sarpong Owens is responsible for leading Blue Cross’s enterprise-wide focus on building health equity into Blue Cross Blue Shield Minnesota’s mission and business practices.
How long have you been with the TRUST?
I joined the TRUST in 2021.
Do you have a favorite TRUST memory so far?
That would be when Patsy Riley was honored with the TRUST 21st Century Pinnacle Leader award in 2018. Patsy had led efforts around diversity, equity and inclusion at Blue Cross Blue Shield Minnesota and she received the organization’s inaugural Health Equity & Diversity Award, which was subsequently named in her honor. Patsy’s work with health equity at Blue Cross helped bring credibility to my work and opened up doors. Patsy has been a true mentor to me and an example of a great leader. I was honored to participate in her recognition video for her TRUST 21stCentury Pinnacle Leader award.
How have mentors helped you?
My mentor helped me to believe in myself and reminded me to always remember of the Power of my Voice (POV). She helped me the most by helping me believe I could do anything I set my heart on.
What is the best career advice you’ve received?
Look for the wisdom in criticism.
What support do you need now to evolve your development as a leader?
Peer coaching.
How do you support other women in their leadership journey?
I encourage and counsel other women and let them know I have their back. I always lend a listening ear when needed. I have a goal to help develop the next cadre of women leaders and it’s something I take rather seriously.
How do you cope with the demanding aspects of your career?
I give myself grace and have a knack for laughing at myself.
How do you incorporate wellness into your day?
I try to walk at least one hour each day and eat healthy, even though it has been challenging. I have a set sleep time I have tried to adhere to over the years. And I also incorporate prayer throughout my day and almost always have a song in my head.
Who inspires you?
My aunt Josephine of blessed memory. She was ahead of her time. She was bold and fearless, which are traits I try to emulate.
What is something that not many people know about you?
I am a professional stand-up comedian. I get paid to make people laugh. I call myself (Her Royal Highness) HRH-The Queen of Comedy.
Any words of wisdom you live by?
Every morning when I wake up, I say to myself:
“This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.” I tell myself this in the morning and try to remain joyful and glad throughout my day.