Greetings and Happy Holidays to all Trinity HCAD Alumni!
Yet again, I feel as though another year has come and gone in the blink of an eye. Reflecting on this past year, I remain energized by the activities of our HCAD Program and our alumni. This year, we expanded our local chapter events and had great fun with alumni gatherings in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Oklahoma City, Denver and Chicago. From casual happy hours to large formal events—coming together as HCAD alumni and sharing memories, laughter, stories, and support is what keeps our alumni network strong.
In partnership with the Health Care Administration Department at Trinity University, the HCAD Alumni Association Board has been brainstorming ways to increase connectivity as alumni. Based on feedback from an alumni survey, the Alumni Board made the decision to change the date of the Dean Duce Award Dinner to coincide with Trinity’s Alumni Weekend with the goal of hosting an event over Alumni Weekend that honored distinguished alumni as well as to celebrate class reunions.
I am so pleased to report that our alumni dinner was another great success. With nearly 170 in attendance, the turnout was one of the largest we have had at an HCAD Alumni Awards dinner. The evening was full of celebration as we began the evening by recognizing the three previous Dean Duce Award winners in attendance, and celebrating the 20th reunion of the Class of 1998.
Another highlight of the evening was thanking Mary Stefl, HCAD professor, for over 30 years of dedication and leadership of the HCAD program before she embarks on her next chapter—retirement. We look forward to postcards from her trip to New Zealand and wish her all the best! Though retired, her dedication will continue as she will be instrumental in leading fundraising efforts for the HCAD Program.
This year, our Momentum Award recipients were Holly Elliott ’05 and Peyton Elliott ’07. For over the past decade, Holly and Peyton have each led successful health care careers, both climbing the ranks at their respective organizations. It was mentioned to me by a graduate that a highlight during the on-campus time was the visit from Holly and Peyton who took the time to talk to the class about balancing careers and family—a valuable lesson for all.
The energy in the room remained strong as Sally Hurt-Deitch ’03 was presented the Dean Duce Award for 2017-2018. Throughout her career, she has not shied away from new challenges. Hurt-Deitch’s passion for health care is contagious and listening to her speak about her love for her family, her calling in health care, and her approach to leadership was inspiring.
I look forward to seeing you at our next national HCAD Alumni Association event in Chicago. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us on Tuesday, March 5, 2019, from 6-8 pm, at the HCADAA Community Reception. The event, courtesy of Corinne Smith ’86 ’94, will take place at Clark Hill Strasburger Law Office, at 130 East Randolph Street, Suite 3900, Chicago, IL 60601.
All of these events are supported by the generosity of our alumni and corporate sponsors. The success of our Annual Fund campaign led by Stefl, Smith, Kevin Ormand ’98, along with the support of many of our alumni on the committee, will allow for the students to continue to attend events such as ACHE, case competitions and local networking events.Thank you to all who made their 2018 annual donation and are already planning for their 2019 annual giving contribution.
I wish you a very happy and safe holiday season. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out if there is anything you’d like to discuss.
Warm regards,
Heidi Pandya ’00, MS-HCAD ’05
President, HCAD Alumni Association Board (2017-2019)
Vice President of Strategic Planning
Heidi.Pandya@medicalcityhealth.com
Medical City Healthcare
Dallas, TX
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