Testimonials for HSA

ALUMNA, EMILY PIATKOWSKI '20, MHSA

REVENUE CYCLE PROJECT MANAGER AT MCLAREN HEALTH CARE

"University of Detroit Mercy’s MHSA program has provided me with the knowledge and skills that have helped shape my career in healthcare. What I found very valuable was the faculty and their different backgrounds, which provided multiple perspectives in the healthcare field. Their passion and eagerness to help students in and out of the program has also been of great value. The program provides education on the current healthcare challenges and what necessary qualities and tools are needed to take on these challenges.

Detroit Mercy’s values have not only been present in my professional career but also in my personal life. I’ve always wanted to take part in improving access to healthcare, and the University has definitely provided me with the framework to do so."

ALUMNA, RHEA RODGERS '21, MHSA

PHYSICIAN ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST AT OPTUM

During Rhea Rodgers' postgraduate studies at University of Detroit Mercy, she had the unique privilege of immersing herself in a transformative educational experience. Her journey was marked by meaningful connections with outstanding professors, mentors, preceptors and peers who enriched her academic and professional growth.

The MHSA program at the University provided Rodgers with invaluable real-world exposure that propelled her performance to exceptional levels. A pivotal moment was her participation in the Midwest Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (MCACHE) Healthcare Congress — facilitated by the University — where she shadowed healthcare trailblazers, including managers, directors and C-suite executives across various health systems. This hands-on experience was instrumental in shaping her understanding of Health Services Administration.

Rodgers embarked on a dynamic career path within the healthcare industry. Her professional journey has been characterized by diverse roles spanning from concierge and admissions to high-level networking, clinical business management and directorial positions. Each role has contributed to her comprehensive skillset and deepened her commitment to healthcare reform.

Currently, she serves as the healthcare physician contracts administrator at Henry Ford Health's Health Alliance Plan (HAP). She attributes this opportunity, along with many others, to the preparation and guidance provided by Detroit Mercy's HSA Program. The program not only equipped her with essential tools for success in the healthcare field but also instilled in her a sense of stewardship, ownership and confidence crucial for driving positive change in healthcare delivery.

Rodgers remains dedicated to leveraging her expertise and passion to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing evolution of healthcare services, guided by the principles and knowledge imparted by her alma mater. Detroit Mercy's MHSA program serves as a cornerstone in her professional journey, and continues to empower her to make a lasting impact in the healthcare sector.

ALUMNA, AYAH KOUJANE '24, MHSA

ADMINISTRATIVE FELLOW AT COREWELL HEALTH

Inspired to positively impact healthcare delivery, Ayah Koujane pursued a master’s in health services administration (MHSA). She selected University of Detroit Mercy’s MHSA program for several reasons, including the flexible class formats, expert faculty and successful job placement rate. Eager to make the most of her time in the program, Koujane leveraged growth opportunities offered inside and outside of the classroom. She spent the early weeks of her time in the program getting to know her peers, which was made possible with the small class sizes.

Koujane networked and made meaningful connections through UDM’s partnership with the Midwest Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (MCACHE), including meeting her current mentor at the first event she attended. Beyond her involvement with MCACHE, Koujane served as the president of the Student Advisory Council (SAC) during her second year.

Koujane secured a postgraduate administrative fellowship immediately after graduating. This would not have been possible without the support and guidance of the MHSA program director(s), faculty and her peers. She credits the UDM MHSA faculty with much of her success, as they pushed her to break out of her comfort zone by participating in case competitions, shadowing a healthcare executive for the day, applying for fellowships and more. It was through these experiences that Koujane truly discovered her potential as an early careerist. 

ALUMNUS, DANIEL ORHORHORO '23, MHSA

HOSPITAL OPERATIONS SPECIALIST - COREWELL HEALTH WILLIAM BEAUMONT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL ROYAL OAK

"University of Detroit Mercy was a cornerstone for my career development. Our University's longstanding reputation for excellence is widely recognized. The collaboration with the Midwest Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (MCACHE) significantly boosted my career prospects. Through monthly networking events, panel discussions and after-hour dinners with professionals from diverse healthcare organizations, I gained invaluable insights and connections. Additionally, participating in a job shadow day sponsored by the University and MCACHE offered a firsthand look into various healthcare fields, which prepared me with the insight of how to approach my career trajectory. While Detroit Mercy equipped me with the essential education for success, this partnership provided access to an extraordinary professional network post-graduation.

Scholarships played a crucial role in my journey, enabling me to focus on my studies, attend conferences such as the ACHE Congress and pursue my passion for positively impacting healthcare without the burden of financial stress. The support I received reinforced my commitment to giving back and serving the underserved communities.

Moreover, the dedicated faculty at Detroit Mercy cared about me as a person, not just a student. Their genuine interest in my well-being and personal growth created a nurturing environment that fostered both academic and personal development. Their mentorship and encouragement were instrumental in shaping my career path and inspiring me to make a difference in the healthcare field and as a human being.

My commitment to serving the underserved has always been a driving force in my career. Having once relied on faith and the kindness of others, it was crucial for me to graduate from a program that prioritizes community investment and supports those in need."

STUDENT, XAVIER MARTIN

Xavier Martin is a student in the Master’s of Health Services Administration Program. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration with a Leadership minor in 2023. While attending Detroit Mercy, Martin joined multiple organizations and societies, including: the Midwest Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (MCACHE), the National Society of Leadership & Success and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Martin has had a great experience at Detroit Mercy. At first, he was still trying to figure out his career path, but after joining the Health Services Administration Program, Martin knew that he made the right choice. The HSA program has provided Martin with experiences that have helped him grow as a leader. One aspect of the HSA program that Martin enjoyed the most was having to complete an internship. Being provided with an internship allowed Martin to grow professionally and get a better understanding of what he wants to do in the future. 

STUDENT, CANDACE BARBERA

Candace Barbera is a student in the Master’s of Health Services Administration Program after earning her Bachelor's in Health Services Administration with a minor in Leadership. After several earlier attempts to begin her college journey, Barbera found her passion in healthcare, though she preferred to focus on administration rather than direct patient care. Her background in healthcare, combined with management experience in the restaurant industry, made Health Services Administration a perfect fit. 

Barbera chose Detroit Mercy for its small class sizes, proximity to home and family connection—her mother graduated from UDM’s Dental Hygiene program in 1998. A dedicated mother, Barbera wanted to show her children that it's never too late to follow your dreams. 

In May 2023, Barbera joined Nursing students on a study abroad trip to Ireland, where she explored healthcare from an international perspective and engaged in the life of Catherine McAuley, a founder of the Sisters of Mercy. What stood out to Barbera the most was the deeply-rooted notion of servant leadership and preserving the dignity of those served. This transformative experience was a highlight of her time at Detroit Mercy.