I chair the Department of Primary Dental Care at the University of Minnesota’s School of Dentistry. I am a cohesive integrator who disrupts the status quo for better patient care, stronger team leadership, and enhanced processes. My career journey includes helming Delta Dental of Minnesota as CEO after serving on the organization’s board for six years; leadership roles at Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Iowa and South Dakota and its Foundation; running for Congress in Iowa. I focus on demystifying change management while leading others to execute on evolutionary strategies—often resulting in first-to-market and first-in-nation results.I am collaborative and bring out the best in people. Colleagues tell me I model the way a leader should behave and have a rare talent for bringing people together—even adversaries. Employees say I put the success of the entire department ahead of self-glory.Highlights in healthcare innovation include serving as the facilitator for the MNSure Board of Directors Work Groups; service on the Task Group on Health Care Delivery, Presidential Transition Team on Health Care Reform; membership on the National Commission on Risk Assessment and Risk Management. I was the founder and chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Workgroup on Foundations and Charitable Giving.My community commitment includes service on the boards of Hennepin Healthcare System, Inc., Benco Dental, Inc., Cargill Foundation, Minnesota Hospital Association, and Wellmark Foundation. My past Board of Director memberships include Greater Twin Cities United Way, Delta Dental Plans Association, YWCA of Minneapolis, American Lung Association of Iowa.I completed a Doctorate of Medical Science at Harvard University and a Doctor of Dental Science degree at University of Iowa. I have two certifications from Wharton School of Business Executive Education Program.My tag line: “Collaborate. Build. Do.”