Jack Dressen is a 2014 graduate from the MHA program and is currently the director of hospital medicine at HealthPartners in Bloomington, MN. Dressen volunteers on the MHA Alumni Association/Foundation’s Education & Engagement Committee, the MHA Healthcare Leadership Symposium Steering Committee, and as a preceptor for the MHA Advanced Problem Solving Course and Summer Residencies. In 2019, he was an alum presenter on telemedicine as part of the Alumni Association/Foundation’s webinar series. 

What is your favorite part of volunteering with the MHA Program and its Alumni Association/Foundation (AA/F)?
I enjoy volunteering with the MHA Program because it affords me the opportunity to not only interact with current students but also with some of our more veteran alumni. The students are always curious and have great energy, which inspires me to bring new approaches to my work. Our seasoned alumni provide perspective, wisdom, and challenge me to continue learning.

Why did you decide to start volunteering?
I believe in the mission of our program and know that as an alum it is my role to help facilitate relationships and experiences that augment the didactic studies offered through the program.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering with the MHA Program and the AA/F?
Reach out, send an email, give the office a call, or shoot me a text. Recently, we’ve been discussing ways in which we can better inform alumni of opportunities to engage with the program. The easiest way for us to know you’re interested is for you to raise your hand. From there we can find the right fit for you to begin giving back to the program! Right now, we’re looking for additional members to join the Healthcare Leadership Symposium Steering Committee (PDF). This is a great way to get involved and give back!

What advice would you offer to your fellow alums?
Whether you paid for the full-time program, executive program, or ISP, you have the opportunity to accelerate the return on your investment. Through engagement, volunteerism, and building community with one another we can solidify our program’s standing as one that is built on preparing individuals to lead teams, departments, divisions, and organizations into the future.

Nominate an alum for our Volunteer Spotlight Series
The MHA Program and AA/F boast incredible volunteers who help advance our mission and values. Our volunteers serve on boards and committees, mentor current students, serve as guest lecturers, and so much more. Our volunteer spotlight series highlights the incredible contributions these individuals are making to the MHA community. Know an amazing volunteer with the MHA program or Alumni Association/Foundation? Submit their name and brief description of why they should be highlighted to mhaalum@umn.edu to be considered for a future spotlight.