TRUST Associate Board

Briana Nord Parish, MPH, Director of Public Policy, Fairview Health Services

I joined Fairview Health Services as the Director of Public Policy in January 2023. In this position, I serve as a liaison between Fairview and Members of Congress, Administration officials and their staffs. I have the opportunity to develop and execute Fairview’s policy agenda to best support our organization, care teams, and patients. As a member of the policy team, I work with smart, passionate colleagues from across the health system to promote their work and tell their stories while advancing policies that support Fairview’s mission to “heal, discover and educate for longer, healthier lives.”

Why did you join the TRUST?

I was introduced to the TRUST by a colleague and joined in 2021 to grow my network within the tight-knit health care community. I’m a boomerang Minnesotan, meaning I grew up here, moved away, and returned to Minnesota. In my case, I lived and started my career in Washington, DC for many years before moving home and getting a position with the Minnesota Hospital Association and then with Allina Health.

I joined the TRUST as a member of the Inclusion Diversity Equity & Access (IDEA) Committee in 2022 and had the honor of joining the Associate Board in January.

What has been your favorite part of being a TRUST member?

Connecting with women who are ambitious and passionate about health care. The people I’ve met are warm and so generous with their sharing their experiences and time. TRUST members are interested in sharing and forming personal experiences and connections as well as professional connections.

What one word would you use to summarize what the TRUST means to you?

Connection.

What is the best career advice you’ve received?

I’ve been fortunate to have some wonderful mentors who took the time to provide constructive feedback and provided space for me to demonstrate my expertise. Some of their best career advice is:

• It’s ok to say “I don’t know”. People will view you as more trustworthy if you are honest and admit you don’t have an answer, especially if you promptly follow-up with a thoughtful, educated response.
• You will achieve success by being kind and smart. Be generous and thoughtful with your knowledge and experience.

How do you support other women in their leadership journey?

I always try to make time to meaningfully connect with individuals who reach out and to connect them with at least one person within my network. I also look for opportunities for individuals to highlight their expertise and leadership.

What do you love the most about the health care industry?

I was drawn to health care because it is an issue that touches everyone. Everyone has had an interaction with a doctor or the hospital. In the health policy space, there are always new challenges, making the work varied and rewarding.

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

I have two young daughters (8 and 6), so to maintain my well-being, I make it a priority to step away from work and my phone to hear about their days or join a dance party. However, I must confess they do a really good impression of me working on my computer and participating in Zoom calls.

Words of wisdom to live by?

I had a leader who would say, “You’re not out of your comfort zone. You are in your learning zone.” I return to this phrase if I feel hesitant about taking on a new challenge or opportunity.