2021-2022 Board of Directors Election Slate
President/Chair-Elect | Finance Director | Education Director | AHIMA Delegate at Large | NYHIMA Awards Committee
Click the Board title above to view those candidates
This election will run from January 12 to January 26. Those elected will take office July 1, 2021 for the term listed in the position summaries below. Only Active and Emeritus Members may vote.
 Jeffery Youngs, RHIT - Candidate for President/Chair-Elect
Local Association: CNYHIMA
Brief Biography: My name is Jeffery Youngs, and have had the pleasure of serving our CSA and my CLA, CNYHIMA. I grew up in Henderson, NY on a dairy farm and relocated to the Syracuse area a few years after
graduating high school. Unsure of what direction I wanted to take for my career, I started a position in an
HIM Department, and I loved what I was doing and learning the many options I could grow in the profession.
I enrolled at Onondaga Community College and graduated in 2012. I started my BS at SUNY Polytechnic in
Utica, NY and hope to complete in near future.
I currently in Hastings, NY with my husband, Brian and our son, Ethan. Being a parent has been an amazing
blessing! I'm employed at Cayuga Medical Center as the HIM System Director. I have oversight of the main
campus HIM Department at CMC, as well as our 22 Clinics at Cayuga Medical Associates and Schuyler Hospital.
Association Activities:
Education Director, NYHIMA
NYHIMA President (Elect, President, Past)
Education Director, CNYHIMA
CNYHIMA President (Elect, President, Past)
Education Director, NYHIMA
HIT Club, President, OCC
Education:
Onondaga Community College, Syracuse, NY; Associate in Applied Science
SUNY Polytechnic, Utica, NY; BA Health Information Admin, TBD
Work History:
Cayuga Health, Ithaca, NY; HIM System Director
Crouse Hospital, Syracuse, NY; Patient Access Director
River Hospital, Alexandria Bay, NY; Patient Access Supervisor
Candidate Question Statement
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
My core values believe in working as a team for the better of the organization. Listening to others and valuing their input helps build a stronger team, and builds respect amongst each other. We should all be striving for the current and future efforts of our association and profession.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I have had the privilege of severing our association for the last several years. I have learned a lot and taken part in several committees. Continuing on the board of directors, will allow me to share some of the past struggles and help live and learn from our past so we can continue to focus on building a stronger association for generations to come.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
I have a strong passion for our association and our profession, as other candidates. I have had the honor of working for our members for years, always keeping their input and best interest in mind at all times. Elected officials are to listen to the members and always work for them. The years ahead will be challenging for our association as well as many others as we strive to overcome the set backs from the pandemic. I know that we have work ahead of us than needs to be done as well as developing new initiatives.
I have built many relationships with members from all across NYS, and I'm so thankfully to NYHIMA for that opportunity. We have amazing members, who want to see our association remain strong moving forward, and I would love the opportunity to help lead our association forward.
If elected to President-Elect, I will continue to be accessible to the NYHIMA members and will strive to listen to them and serve them to the best of my ability.
Sandra Macica, RHIA, CCS - Candidate for Finance Director
Local Association: AdHIMA
Association Activities:
Have served in many local and state positions over the years including President and Education Director. Currently serving as Coding Roundtable Coordinator.
Work History:
Coding Compliance Specialist, Trinity of New England, Hartford CT; current
Education Director, Libman Education, MA
Coding Educator, Elsevier, Atlanta, GA
Senior Consultant, Provider Consulting Solutions, Clifton Park, NY
Data Quality Coordinator, Saratoga Hospital, Saratoga, Springs, NY
Executive Director, NYHIMA, Albany, NY
Consultant, HANYS, Albany, NY
Candidate Question Statement
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
My core values have changed over time. Now I think the top three are community, service, and meaningful work. Working with the other leaders in NYHIMA to be as successful as we can with our mission of education.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I am motivated to work with the group in a way that meets the many needs of our membership and keep an open mind to serving members future needs.
Deb Symonds, RHIT, CTR - Candidate for Finance Director
Local Association: RRHIMA
Brief Biography: After a 25 year career in retail management, I started my second career in 2014 by entering the HIM field. Since then I have successfully attained a RHIT and CTR credential. I am enjoying my new career by embracing the networking provided through local and state organizations. I am currently working remotely for Registry Partners. I am profoundly grateful for all the opportunities the past five years have offered me and look forward to giving back to my new profession for many years to come.
Association Activities:
NYHIMA Finance Director
NYHIMA Awards Committee
NYHIMA Conference Planning Committee
RRHIMA President
RRHIMA Finance Director
RRHIMA Bylaws Director
RRHIMA Social Media Facilitator
Education:
Monroe Community College, Rochester, NY; Associate in Applied Science, Health Information Technology
Monroe Community College, Rochester, NY, Associate in Science - Physical Education Studies
Work History:
Registry Partners, Burlington, NC; Senior CTR; current
Rochester Regional Health, Rochester, NY; Tumor Registrar
Southside Hearing Center, Administrative Support Coordinator; Rochester NY
JCPenney's, Rochester NY; Supervisor
Candidate Question Statement
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
Open-mindedness, passion, and fairness top my list. It is a leader’s responsibility to guide and motivate their team to accomplish goals. It is important to listen to the thoughts and ideas of others as sometimes “thinking outside the box” reveals a more efficient way to do a job/task. Passion demonstrates devotion and enthusiasm in oneself and can also inspire it in others.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
After serving on the NYHIMA board for the past two years, I am still motivated to help NYHIMA through the changing environment we are all facing with COVID. I have strong organizational and problem-solving skills. I enjoy working in a team environment yet have the capability to work individually. I am dependable, practical and realistic. I feel my knowledge and background are true assets to the NYHIMA board.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
As a newer HIM professional, I bring a fresh vision and out of the box thought process. During my term as NYHIMA Finance Director, I was able to collaboratively be part of the changing process NYHIMA implemented during COVID to remain financially viable. In combination with a strong, motivated NYHIMA board, new ideas arose and drove change to help reduce NYHIMA expenses and lead us to a small year end profit. If re-elected, I look forward to working again with the board and challenging us to improve and generate more ideas to better position NYHIMA and its members for the future.
Sue Clarke-Kendrick, MHA, RHIA, FAHIMA - Candidate for Education Director
Local Association: TZHIMA
Brief Biography: I am Sue Clarke-Kendrick. I have been an HIM leader and educator since 2000, working in various healthcare organizations leading their HIM and CDI departments. I am very fond of my career and continuously give back through teaching students, mentoring students and volunteering for TZHIMA, NYHIMA, AHIMA and HFMA. My passion is my career and my family.
I have served on TZHIMA and NYHIMA boards as the Education Director and President. I have also received AHIMA’s leadership award and NYHIMA Mentor award twice previously. I have the interest to continue to give to the profession through continued volunteering and am interested in running for the Education Director position again for NYHIMA board.
Association Activities:
TZHIMA-President
NYHIMA Education Director
NYHIMA President
HFMA education and Webinar Committees
Education:
Capella University-MHA
SUNY Down State-BS in HIM
Work History:
WCC-HIT Curriculum Chair; current
Wyckoff Heights Medical Center-AVP, HIM and CDI
Northwhell Health/Phelps Hospital-Director of HIM
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
My core values are honesty, commitment, hardworking, teaching and leading as transformational leader. These values guide me in making ethical decisions, going out of my way for any facility I work for and volunteer for, teaching others to be successful HIM professionals and empower others to be a part of all changes/initiatives
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I have previous experience serving in this role; I have industry connections which can help reach out and obtain the commitment of various vendors/healthcare facilities and leaders and I have over 20 years of HIM leadership experience to bring to the Board.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
I am very passionate about my profession and AHIMA/NYHIMA. I am available 7 days a week and willing to take on any project given to me to improve our association and profession. I believe my extensive education, experience in the field and previously having served in the same role, I am fully aware of the responsibilities and the requirements of the role and can deliver the needed outcomes.
Gabriela Grygus, MBA, RHIA, CHPS - Candidate for Education Director
Local Association: HIMANYC
Brief Biography: Having started my career in the HIM Department at NYU Langone Health in 2002, the same year I completed an obligatory 4-week clinical there, I highly value the role of education on employment opportunities. When I had listed NYU as my first choice for my clinical, I had no idea the magnitude of the opportunity I had been given. I gave it my all, even as a naïve college senior, realizing that I might secure a job after graduation. Seven months later, it became a reality. I began my career as a clerical employee and stayed in that role for a year. I always look back at that as a fruitful experience that helped pave this path for me.
I then went on to become supervisor of the chart completion area. This was a, sometimes, intimidating role though it truly taught me how to manage difficult situations. Less than two years later, after having caught the attention of my director and her VP with enthusiasm for my work, I became Assistant Director of Operations. Just four years later, in 2019, the directorship had become available. To me it seemed like a natural progression and I had the encouragement of those around me to apply. Eventually, I was given the challenging role, and later promoted to Senior Director of HIM.
Eighteen years later and I am still excited and honored to work for this world-class institution among some of the smartest people I know. I’m surrounded by an abundance of dedicated staff and an agile management team, as well as the undying support of my SVP. It’s most appropriate here to state that the HIM Department “in whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”
Association Activities:
HIMANYC, past-president
HIMANYC, president
HIMANYC, president-elect
Education:
Baruch College, Zicklin School of Business, NY, NY; MBA in Healthcare Administration
Temple University, School of Allied Health Professions, Philadelphia, PA; BS in Health Information Management
Work History:
NYU Langone Health, NY, NY; Senior Director, Health Information Management
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
It’s no doubt that loyalty is an integral value on which many of my principles are based. I have been a loyal employee and leader since joining NYU Langone Health in 2002. It’s important to realize that my loyalty has not been a unidirectional relationship. Rather, it has been multi-directional. I feel that my organization has been loyal by entrusting its HIM Department to me. Similarly, my staff has shown immense loyalty to our department through many challenges including relocations, mergers, a new EHR, a super storm, and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. I value loyalty and believe it positively impacts the relationships that are formed within our team.
Efficiency has become a huge component of how I operate considering the full-asset mergers of which I’ve been a part. One of the first exercises we perform in such scenarios is measuring production of the staff. Operating with more efficiency has become standard practice. With sophisticated tools, we have been successful in creating an efficient work force by removing non value added steps and streamlining processes to be the same throughout the enterprise. This enables work to be done consistently, allowing for seamless measurement and trending of key performance indicators.
Honesty builds trust, and, as a leader, it’s important to me that staff recognize that I’m transparent. I’ve learned that what might seem to be a minor change for me might be a major adjustment for someone and I am respectful of that. To that end, I have vowed to my team that when there are changes impacting them, I will be as open as possible. I always prefer that they hear plans directly from me and that is one of the main reasons I encourage an open door policy.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I’ve had the privilege of interacting with some members of the Board of Directors, even if just for a day during spring and fall retreats in my capacity through HIMANYC. It was immediately apparent to me that these members are knowledgeable and respected in the HIM profession. The opportunity that was created for me as a student was essential and I believe in giving back to the profession but strengthening the delivery of education. I strive to become a part of the esteemed group to maintain the enthusiasm. After all, the HIM profession is a highly-valued one in which remaining abreast of important topics is essential.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
In today’s day and age, sticking with one employer for an extended period of time is not as common a practice as it had been in the past. Nevertheless, I have proudly been loyal and dedicated to my current employer for eighteen years. This has enabled me to truly understand the history of our organization while continuously strategizing for the future. Having been part of the epic transformation from a 726 bed hospital in Manhattan to a 2,000+ bed major academic health system, spanning into Brooklyn and Long Island, has allowed me to professionally grow exponentially. During this time, the HIM Department was home to many students completing their requisite clinical work, with many having returned as staff, and later management. This served as a testament to growth professionally from within, as I myself, began to do nearly two decades ago.
Darlene McKendrick, RHIT, CCS - Candidate for AHIMA Delegate at Large
Local Association: RRHIMA
Brief Biography: I have been in this profession since 1987. I could not have chosen a better field for myself. Through my career I have dabbled in several areas of our profession as well as a few not so traditional areas with most of my time spent in the inpatient coding/auditing arena. I like to learn new things and therefore have made volunteering part of my career goals over the years. I have two boys who are now grown; 27 and 22. I can attest that empty nest syndrome is a real thing! According to ICD-10-CM, it’s a real diagnosis too (Z60.0). I have found my niche with auditing and I am proud of the positive relationships I have developed over the years with my contacts within the hospitals. The position of NYHIMA Delegate would be a new position to me and I would look forward to learning and growing with my association as we tackle all the changes to come.
Association Activities:
RRHIMA, Communications Director
NYHIMA Advocacy Director
NYHIMA, Membership Chair
NYHIMA Annual Conference Committee Program Chair
NYHIMA, Director of Communications
RRHIMA, President
RRHIMA, Director of Education and Treasurer
Education:
Roberts Wesleyan College, Rochester, NY; Bachelor’s in Health Administration
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Alfred State College, Alfred, NY; Associates in Applied Science-Medical Record Technology Associates in Applied Science-Medical Assisting
Work History:
Excellus, Rochester, NY
- Medical Coding Specialist II
MVP Health Care, Rochester, NY
- Process Manager
- Medical Audit Coordinator
- Case and Disease Management Quality Compliance Program Coordinator
- Supervisor, Retrospective/DRG/Physician Claims Review
- DRG Analyst
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
I am a big advocate of teamwork. I believe every individual has something distinctive to contribute to any task or discussion. There is almost always something to learn from hearing other’s perspectives. I am passionate about our profession.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
As a NYHIMA Delegate, the primary task is to stay on top of the changes happening at the AHIMA level and to understand how that impacts us at the NYHIMA level. These changes require dialogue at both the board of director level as well as with the membership. In my current position, I rely strongly on both written and verbal communications to follow an issue through to resolution. Communication and providing timely feedback are critical to keeping NYHIMA and our membership on top of any impending changes.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
I am a very open person and a good listener. I enjoy learning from other’s perspectives. The position of NYHIMA Delegate encourages members to share their thoughts and input on discussions at the national level on how these potential changes may impact us at the State and Local levels. Combining both my employment and volunteer experience, I feel I have an ideal background for being able to perform the role of NYHIMA Delegate. I would be honored to serve in this position if elected. We have a voice, let’s use it, together.
Mari Pirie-St. Pierre, RHIA, CPHI - Candidate for AHIMA Delegate at Large
Local Association: HIMANNY
Brief Biography: I received my RHIA in September of 2003; prior to that I held the credential of RHIT which I attained in 1998. In 2017, I received the CPHI – Certified Professional in Health Informatics credential. I have 30 plus years of experience in the field of HIM where my years of expertise and education, along with my drive to have informatics improve the delivery of behavioral health care services, has shaped me into a positive and motivational force of change. I am committed to providing the highest quality of work, thought, and outcomes. I have worked in the fields of Health Information Management, Medical Informatics, and Quality Management in behavioral health settings. More recently I have taken on the role of HIM Director in a growing multi-hospital acute care health system. This is my first foray into acute care and although daunting, I am finding the work fascinating and fulfilling. My main career interests are in improving the overall experience of individuals receiving health services; whether through leading a project, designing information systems, or providing direction as a subject matter expert. It is of the utmost importance to me to provide service to my community, and this includes NYHIMA members. If selected as an AHIMA delegate, I would serve the NYHIMA membership in bringing information to them from the national level. As well as being the vehicle of communication up to the national level. I value the opportunity to remain informed in areas related to health information and enjoy opportunities to share that knowledge with others. This past year I’ve had the opportunity to work with a strong NYHIMA Board, as well as a dedicated AHIMA delegate and we’ve been able to set process improvements in place to increase the communication between our NYS association members and AHIMA. I would love the opportunity to continue this work, further enhancing the NYHIMA member experience.
Association Activities:
Credentialed Registered Health Information Management Administrator (RHIA) & credentialed Certified Professional in Health Informatics (CPHI) - American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
Health Information Technologies and Innovation Practice Council of AHIMA
AHIMA Delegate
House Leadership Council
Item Writer for AHIMA CPHI credential
Past Chair for the Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management Committee (CCHIIM)
Member of American Health Information Management Association; New York Health Information Management Association; and Health Information Management Association of Northern NY
Past-President and Secretary of the Health Information Management Association of Northern New York
Education:
Northwestern University – Chicago Illinois
Masters in Medical Informatics with a focus on behavioral health information solutions.
SUNY Empire
B.S. Health Information Management with a focus on clinical documentation.
Work History:
St. Lawrence Health System/Potsdam, NY; Director of HIM; current
St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center/Ogdensburg, NY; Deputy Director Quality Management
NYS Department of Mental Health/Albany, NY; Deputy Director Medical Informatics
St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center/Ogdensburg, NY; Director of HIM
St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center/Ogdensburg, NY; Medical Record Technician
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
I had the opportunity early on in my career to work with some really dedicated HIM professionals. These woman passed along to me their knowledge of the HIM field and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and become the HIM professional I am today. It is fulfilling work for me when I can mentor individuals and instill the work ethics that were taught to me early on in my career.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I am an excellent time manager and always find the time to dedicate what is needed to fulfill my obligations to my volunteer work. It’s very important to me to give back to an association that has provided me with so much fulfillment in the work that I do, so I’d have to say one of my strongest attributes is one of gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
I have experience at all association levels; local, state, and national. I’ve previous experience as a delegate; most recently serving in a House Leadership position.
G. Elizabeth Wilson, MA, RHIA, CCS, CDIP, CPC-I, CPC, CRC, CEMC, CPMA, CPCO, CHC, CFE - Candidate for AHIMA Delegate at Large
Local Association: HIMAWNY
Brief Biography: Liz Wilson began her career in Health Information Management as an internal coding auditor in an inpatient facility in Western New York. There she implemented and achieved a coding accuracy outcome of over 95% in one year for seventeen hospital clinics. She then served as the Coding Director and Compliance Officer for a health care consulting company before serving in her current role as the Corporate Compliance and Privacy Officer at Endeavor Health Services, Inc. There she built a compliance department that oversees coding education, clinical documentation improvement, medical auditing, and medical records. She serves as a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Council and an appointed LBGTQ Patient Liaison.
Liz’s career in HIM is one of service to Health Information Professionals. She had first served as a New York Health Information Management Association (NYHIMA) delegate in 2015. She was elected VP of the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Buffalo Chapter in 2015, and then President in 2016. She is credited with developing and instituting the first AAPC Approved Official Extern Site in Buffalo, NY in 2014 and she had served as an AHIMA consultant from 2015 to 2017. Liz has published articles for the Journal of AHIMA and has served as a speaker for over forty conferences in the last seven years.
Her experience in Health Information includes mentoring newer HIM professionals and teaching HIT and HIM students. She had served as an interim HIM program director and as an associate professor for CAHIIM approved baccalaureate HIM programs, and she continues to teach certificate exam courses and medical auditing for the National Alliance of Medical Auditing Specialists (NAMAS). Liz recently served a three-year term volunteer appointment as Commissioner-At-Large for the Commission on Certification for Health Information and Informatics Management (CCHIIM) where she served the public by establishing, implementing, and enforcing standards and procedures for certification and recertification of health information and informatics professionals.
She holds an Associate Degree in Health Information Technology from Erie Community College in Williamsville, New York, and a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences from Manhattan College in Riverdale, New York. Liz earned her Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Medaille College, in Buffalo, New York and is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program.
In gratitude, Liz’s personal mission is to give back to the HIM community that has impacted her so profoundly. She is committed to paying it forward by volunteering her time and lending her experience towards efforts in advocacy, policy, mentorship, education, and leadership. She derives personal satisfaction in: preparing her students, supporting her colleagues, positioning her customers for success, and creating a culture of ethics that neither sacrifices compliance, nor quality of care to consumers. Liz Wilson hopes to actively take part in the continued advancement of health information and to humbly represent and serve health information professionals in the role of NYHIMA Delegate-At-Large.
Association Activities:
NYHIMA Delegate-At-Large
HIMAWNY ICD-10 Delegate
NYHIMA Conference Planning Committee, Volunteer
Education:
Medaille College, Buffalo, New York, M.A.O.L.
Manhattan College, Riverdale, New York, B.S.
Erie Community College, Williamsville, New York, A.S.
CMC St. John’s College of Allied Health Professions, Fresh Meadows, New York; A.S.
Work History:
AHIMA, Chicago, IL; CCHIIM Commissioner-At-Large; current
NYHIMA, Albany, NY; Conference Planning Committee Member; current
Endeavor Health Services, Inc., Buffalo, NY; Corporate Compliance and Privacy Officer; current
American Public University System, Charlestown, WV; Adjunct Professor HIM Program; current
Medaille College, Buffalo, NY; Interim HIM Program Director
Medaille College, Buffalo, NY; Assistant Professor HIM Program
AHIMA, Chicago, IL; Independent Contractor
Healthcare Solutions WNY, LLC, Buffalo, NY; HIM Director and Compliance Officer
National Alliance of Medical Auditing Specialists, Knoxville, TN; CPMA Exam Prep Instructor; current
Catholic Health System Mount Saint Mary’s Hospital, Lewiston, NY; Internal Coding Auditor
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
My core values include advocacy, stewardship, equality, and service to others. In each leadership position that I have held I have recognized a need to utilize the opportunity to represent patients and fellow health information professionals (HIPs) as their advocate. As a multicultural, multiethnic, and multiracial person, I feel that it is important to embrace and welcome diversity in our industry, and in our membership body. My efforts as an HIM program director had included speaking to and networking with high schools, community colleges and job fair attendees to talk to them about the various roles in HIM and the multitude of opportunities that lead to fulfilling careers. I would like to see a more diverse population of HIM and HIT students, interns, and workforce members. I have worked towards facilitating inclusion by developing an internship program open to high school graduates with the opportunity for direct hire. I continue to serve as mentor and coach and encourage students and new members to network with seasoned professionals, volunteer to gain experience, earn valuable credentials, and work on identifying and pursuing new professional goals. I believe that each HIP has the ethical duty to lend to the advancement of our profession. We seek to do so in different ways, but our outcomes are comparable.
Health Information is ever-evolving in response to the health care environment, policy, and technology. I am dedicated to creating opportunities for training and professional skills development that will enable HIPs to become invested in the health and growth of our industry. My leadership positions have given me the forum to reach a wider audience and to counsel them on the importance of developing key traits to advance their own careers while promoting positive change for our profession as a whole. I encourage adaptability to external factors, participation in conversations on change, and development of a wide breadth of skills that can lead us into a new and improved age of health information.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I am a health information professional who values relationship-building; not merely those between members of the board, but by making and strengthening a connection between the governing body and the association membership. A membership association’s value and strength are determined by the members that comprise it. I believe that when members are well-represented and have a forum to voice ideas, concerns and needs, they become active and engaged in the membership and the profession. They participate in the discussions and vote on the decisions that need to be made. Openness and collaboration effectively build relationships because these build trust among us. Transparency and accountability are two other attributes that I uphold in any role that I serve in. I value honest communication at all times and work towards fostering an environment that celebrates the sharing of information and ideas, as much as it encourages full disclosure and transparency in reporting. I also recognize the importance of committing the time and energy necessary to perform the duties of this role and of holding myself accountable for outcomes that will be seen as both achievements and setbacks. A governing body that operates with the mission to serve its membership is one that becomes more effective and acquires the respect and support of the membership it serves. My hope is to have the opportunity to work towards helping and facilitating the desired outcomes for our BoD and our members through the role of NYHIMA Delegate-At-Large.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
Perhaps what sets me apart from many qualified and known candidates is the passion that I have for the industry, profession, and our membership. My hope is that my continued contributions will lend to the advancement of the industry of health information, but this starts by empowering our members. The majority of my efforts and contributions over the years have been focused on bringing awareness of health information to non-members, advocating for professionals to have access to education, skills training and employment, and in promoting change in policy and governance that would enable our profession to thrive another hundred years. I have worked as a medical records clerk, medical coder, medical auditor, HIM director, educator, and compliance officer. As a result, I have earned experience in many of the traditional core HIM roles, specialty roles, and emerging ones. I understand that our industry is undergoing change and I want to support our membership body so that we can continue to bring value to all stakeholders.
My desire to see health information in the forefront of healthcare data governance and health information technology is what fuels my passion for leading others to this summit. Leadership is about facilitating change and serving others. I enjoy networking and building relationships with dedicated HIPs that share my interest in serving our membership. As a Delegate, I would serve as a representative with passion and with an ethical duty in raising the members’ issues, conveying their ideas, and promoting an agenda that will improve the value that NYHIMA has to offer our members. I firmly believe that NYHIMA has the privilege and responsibility to serve our members and our industry at the state level through leadership, stewardship, transparency, relationship-building, and a sense of community. I hope to have the opportunity to serve all of you in this capacity and thank you for considering my candidacy as Delegate-At-Large.
Cindy A. Alsheimer, RHIT - Candidate for NYHIMA Awards Committee
Local Association: CNYHIMA
Brief Biography: Cindy received her Associates Degree in Applied Science from Onondaga Community College in 1988. She successfully obtained her credentials as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) in 1989.
She currently serves as the Health Information Management Director and Privacy/Security Officer as well as CNYCC DSRIP Coordinator for Bishop Rehabilitation and Nursing Center of Syracuse, NY.
is originally from Frankfort, NY and has been married to Dominick Alsheimer of Utica, NY for the past 36 years. She has a daughter Catherine Elizabeth who lives in Syracuse, NY and is currently working in the Mental Health field and attending college in pursuit of her PhD. in Psychology. Cindy and Dominick who is recently retired both reside in Mexico, NY. She enjoys her loving family, research, creativity, networking, planning, mentoring HIT/HIM students, working, surprise trips to the Casino and being a long time fan and close friend of the Marshall Tucker Band. Cindy was excited to be working with Carolyn Hastings as Co-Chair for NYHIMA’s Annual Conference in June of 2019 as well as the committee members who assisted us in making this a super conference.
Association Activities:
Member of AHIMA, NYHIMA and CNYHIMA
AHIMA Student Mentor, NYHIMA Long Term Care Section Chair, NYHIMA Education Committee Member
Legislative Committee Member
NYHIMA Annual Conference Co-Chair
CNYHIMA Bylaws Chair, Secretary, Correspondence Director
CNYHIMA President-Elect, President, Past-President
CNYHIMA Long Term Chair
CNYHIMA 2016 Distinguished Member Award
NYHIMA Legislative Committee Member
Nominated as NYHIMA’S Distinguished Member in 2019
Education:
Frankfort Schuyler Central School (High School) Frankfort, NY Focus in Business
Herkimer County College Herkimer, NY; Credits in Accounting
Maria Regina College Syracuse, NY; (part time weekend college) HIT Program school closed and transferred to:
Onondaga Community College Syracuse, NY; (part time) Associate Degree in Applied Science
SUNY IT Utica, NY (part time); Credits in Health Information Management Program
Work History:
Bishop Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Syracuse, NY; HIM Director/Privacy and Security Officer; current
Rosewood Heights Health Centre, Syracuse, NY; MDS Coordinator/Privacy Officer
Mercy Nursing Home, Watertown, NY; HIM/MDS Consultant
LTC Consulting, Mexico, NY; HIM Consultant/Per diem
Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown, NY; Assistant Medical Record Director
Castle Rest Nursing Home, Syracuse, NY; Medical Records Director
Oswego Hospital Mental Health Medical Record File Clerk
Oswego Hospital Mental Health Medical Record Coordinator
Oswego Hospital Acute Care Assistant Medical Records Director
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
Respectful, dedicated, trustworthy and caring are my main core values. I believe through strong leadership with the empowering of those in a group or team will only make for a stronger association.
My work in healthcare in a leadership role since the late 80’s has allowed me to accomplish a lot since high school when I was quite shy, I knew I had always wanted to make a difference in the world and through volunteering I have been able to find my niche.
Joining volunteer associations and building my leadership skills have done a lot for me and helped me find my voice and I still continue grow as a person and a leader. Making decisions that satisfy my personal values have made my sense of self strengthened by each and every decision.
I try to instill the importance of joining and becoming active with CNYHIMA, NYHIMA and AHIMA and to network often.
I enjoy working with others towards a common goal whether it is in the workplace or in a volunteer position to find others who have particular shared value in decision making to generate and allow cohesion in a group/team.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I will bring to the Executive Board a positive mental attitude, creativity, empathy towards others, dedication, loyalty, determination in challenging areas, integrity and my experience in other volunteer positions I have been a part of through CNYHIMA, NYHIMA, AHIMA and local community organizations. Building our NYHIMA membership base, continuing education to our members and making NYHIMA front and center are some of my goals,
Being asked by many members about the CNYHIMA Newsletter—I would plan on bringing that back to our membership in 2020-2021.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
I will bring my leadership skills, my positive attitude as I do in my professional career and our local association and continue sharing knowledge and education with professional members and students. I will bring my beliefs in the mission of local, state and national HIM associations.
Donna Bishop, RHIT - Candidate for NYHIMA Awards Committee
Local Association: HIMANNY
Brief Biography: I am currently employed at the St. Regis Mohawk Health Services. I work with the staff in the Health Information Management Department and facilitate both the Quality Assurance and Compliance Committees and PEER Review Committee. I work with appropriate staff on HIPAA education, coding reviews, medical terminology classes, and continuous reviews and audits of records. Along with my current job I also work as an independent Consultant and audit records for ARA (American Renal Association.)
I have been in the Medical Records/Health Information Management field since 1976, working my way up from a clerical/clerk position to a coder, and then as a Director of the HIM Department. Over my 40+ years, I have had the opportunity to work in various settings such as Long Term Care, Psychiatric Facility, Acute Care and in a Health Services Clinic. I have also worked as an adjunct instructor at three area colleges and for adult education settings for both Medical Terminology Classes and CPT Coding.
I received my Medical Records/HIM Education from AMRA (American Medical Record Association) as well as some required courses at SUNY Canton.
Association Activities:
Health Information Management Association of Northern New York (HIMANNY), Member, Past President x3, President x3, President-Elect x3, HIMANNY Delegate
New York Health Information Management Association (NYHIMA), Member, Finance Director
New York Health Information Management Association (NYHIMA) - Long-Term Care Section, Past Chair person, Chair person, Chair-Elect
Education:
AHIMA (formally AMRA) RHIT Credential
AHIMA (formally AMRA)
SUNY Canton, Prerequisites for RHIT Course
SUNY Canton Secretarial Science Program
Work History:
St. Regis Mohawk Health Services Akwesasne, NY HIM/Administration HIM Tech. QA/Compliance and PEER Review Facilitator, current
American Renal Associates, NY, Health Records Auditor, Consultant, current
Gary Flu, RHIA and Associates, NY, Health Records Auditor, Consultant
Alice Hyde Medical Center, Malone, NY, HIM, Director
St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center, Ogdensburg, NY, HIM, HIM Tech
St. Regis Mohawk Health Services, Akwesasne, NY, Instructor, current
North Country Comm. College, Malone, NY, Adjunct Instructor
SUNY- Canton, Canton, NY, Adjunct Instructor
Mater Dei college, Ogdensburg, NY, Adjunct Instructor
AEIOU Adult Education, Massena, NY, Instructor
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
I think my core values include the dedication that I have for our profession, my passion for the continuation of our local CLI, and my honesty and respect that I have for my peers. I have been a long time member of this association and have volunteered for leadership positions on several occasions on both the local and the state level. I believe that good, ongoing communication skills play a huge part within our profession. I take into consideration what my peers are trying to say and include ideas and suggestions whenever need be.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body.
feel that my experience as an adjunct instructor would be a great attribute for being a part of the Awards Committee. Along with my instructor experience, I believe that my years of experience in the actual work force would contribute in helping the committee members make some good decisions.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
I think my years of experience in this profession in both the teaching field and work setting would help contribute in working with members of this committee. I have also been a member of this same committee several times throughout my career, so I think this would be an asset as well.
Shea Coleman, RHIT - Candidate for NYHIMA Awards Committee
Brief Biography: Shea is a 2011 graduate from the Monroe Community College Health Information Technology program. Shea was elected as the HIT club treasurer and graduated with honors. Shea earned her RHIT credential shortly after graduation. Shea’s professional career includes emergency department/outpatient coding at a local health system, progressing to a role as an AHIMA-approved ICD 10 trainer and coding supervisor. Currently, Shea is an Audit Supervisor and completes chart audits as a third-party contractor for selective federal programs. Shea enjoys being a supervisor and training new coders to help them reach their professional potential.
When Shea is not at work, she enjoys spending time outdoors at her small farm, which includes 2 dogs, 2 cats, 2 horses, and 2 potbellied pigs. Shea is also an avid trail runner and has run several ultramarathons, with distances ranging from 50 kilometers to 100 miles.
Association Activities:
NYHIMA Communications Director
Education:
Monroe Community College, Rochester, NY; AAS in Health Information Technology
Monroe Community College, Rochester, NY; AAA in Liberal Arts
Work History:
Maximus Federal Services, Pittsford, NY; Audit Supervisor; current
Maximus Federal Services, Pittsford, NY; Coding review Adjudicator
University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY; Regional Coding Supervisor
F.F. Thompson Hospital, Canandaigua, NY; Medical Records Coder
Nicholas H. Noyes Memorial Hospital, Dansville, NY; Emergency Department and Physician Coder/Analyst
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
My core values are integrity and equality. They guide my decision making because valuing integrity means to do the right thing, even when no one will notice or know. This also means to follow rules and guidelines, and trust that others will do the same. Equality means that all people have value and are given the same opportunities to participate and succeed.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I bring a combination of past experience and new perspective. From having served on the Board of Directors in the past, I am familiar with how the board operates and have networked with members across the state. As a new candidate to the awards committee, I bring this knowledge and the willingness to analyze the current processes and improve if needed. I also enjoy getting to know the members of our association and what unique roles they play in HIM careers.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
My experience comes from my involvement in professional organizations and from positions that are not work related. Along with participation as a NYHIMA board member, I also volunteer and am involved on the boards of local running and triathlon clubs. I have volunteered to help organize activities that range from large racing events to small, casual group workouts. I am skilled at recognizing the needs of a diverse group and finding a way to tailor the activity to satisfy as many of those as possible.
Brenda Embrey, MPA, RHIA, CHP - Candidate for NYHIMA Awards Committee
Local Association: RRHIMA
Brief Biography: Seasoned Professor of Health Information Technology and Consultant in the Ambulatory Surgery, Physical/Brain Injury Rehabilitation, and Long Term Care arenas.
Association Activities:
Speaker at AHIMA Annual Convention
NYHIMA Delegate to AHIMA
NYHIMA Awards Committee
Rochester Regional HIMA Strategic Planning
Rochester Regional HIMA Delegate to NYHIMA
Rochester Regional HIMA Education Director
Rochester Regional HIMA Bylaws Director
Education:
PhD coursework Old Dominion University misc.
Master in Public Ad SUNY Brockport, NY
BS in Health Information Administration York College of Pennsylvania
AAS in Medical Record Administration Alfred State College, NY
Work History:
Independent Consultant – Health Information misc., Western NY, current
Professor, Health Information Technology Monroe Community College, Rochester, NY, current
Health Information Administrator A.L. Jordan Health Center, Rochester, NY
Assistant Director, Medical Records Ellis Hospital, Schenectady, NY
Health Information Technician Veteran’s Administration Hospital, Batavia, NY
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
Do the right thing. Be kind. Karma is real. Empathy for others is at the core of healthcare and education. I try to understand, to provide tools for success, and to motivate. One must invest in both personal achievement and the greater good in order to achieve full satisfaction.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
I celebrate those who display true desire for learning and investment in career development, and seek to reward those who embody such traits, by considering nominations to the NYHIMA Awards Committee.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
Previous Awards Committee experience.
Versed in qualitative review of written presentation.
Experience is matching submission to criteria (awards, grants, etc.)
and…of course….desire to serve my profession
Leslie Mills, RHIA - Candidate for NYHIMA Awards Committee
Local Association: HIMANNY
Brief Biography: I am the Director of Health Information Management at St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center in Ogdensburg. Prior to becoming the Director, I spent 10 years working as Health Information Technician and prior to that as the Medical Records Manager at a health care clinic. With twenty years of experience in the field, my interest in Health Information Management began in 1997 while working as the Office Manager for a health care clinic. After receiving my RHIT credential in 2000, I went back to college in 2012 receiving a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences which enabled me to test for my RHIA credential.
My work experience also includes acting as a Consultant for multiple Article 28 Health Care Clinics.
I have volunteered for my local association, HIMANNY, (Health Information Management of Northern New York since 2000; serving in each role of our board (some positions more than once).
I am the mom of 3 fantastic boys! I volunteer year-round for their many sporting activities but also love to enjoy the winter weather in Northern New York snowmobiling as much as possible.
Association Activities:
NYHIMA Education Committee (Fill in )
Northern New York President, President Elect, Treasure /Finance Director
Education:
University of Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
AHIMA Chicago, Illinois Accredited Record Technician
SUNY Canton Canton, NY Medical Administrative Assistant
Work History:
St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center, Ogdensburg, NY, Director of Health Information Management; current
CP Family Health Care Center, Canton, NY, Medical Records Manager
Candidate Question Statement:
1. What are your core values and how do they guide your decision-making and leadership behaviors?
Commitment - If I’m making a commitment to NYHIMA I’m also creating an expectation for myself to honor and uphold all aspects of what is needed from me by my peers and the membership. Having this core value will help my decision-making behaviors in committing to the excellence in management of heath information for members, patients, and providers.
Tolerance - In any organization there are members with different ideas, beliefs, visons, and jobs who may not always see eye to eye. It is important, when making decisions, that we focus on the good of all and show respect, patience, and courtesy towards each member.
2. What attributes will you bring to the existing Board of Directors that will make us a stronger governing body?
My plan to assist the governing body would be to continue be open minded and professional. These attributes will help for open communication and the goal of working together to assist our members.
My adaptability to change would be very important as I’ve seen the progress NYHIMA has made over the last few years with a change in management. We are very fortunate to have such a knowledgeable group assisting us daily with the ins and outs of our organization.
3. What differentiates you from other candidates for the position?
After volunteering for the last 17 years with my local CLA I have been able to attend some recent NYHIMA Fall and Spring Leadership Conferences. I can see the passion in the current board members to provide the best possible information to local leaders to share with their groups and to continue to help NYHIMA grow and provide increased opportunities of education for our members along with Financial Management in local CLA’s.
I would love the opportunity to work with the current governing body as they continue to serve all members of NYHIMA and can assist in supporting each CLA.
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