At M.L. Best Consulting, we believe meaningful progress happens when leaders, organizations, and communities come together with shared purpose. That belief was powerfully reinforced at the 2024 Health Equity Symposium, hosted by the NAHSE North Carolina Chapter — the chapter’s largest and most impactful event to date.
The Symposium was a truly monumental gathering, bringing together healthcare leaders, advocates, and partners for a day centered on learning, connection, and advancing a more equitable healthcare future.
A Theme Rooted in Collaboration
This year’s theme, “Shattering Silos: A Community Ecosystem Approach to Achieve Health Equity,” served as a compelling reminder that lasting progress cannot happen in isolation. Addressing health inequities requires collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and communities — and the conversations throughout the day reflected that collective mindset.
Insights from Visionary Leaders
Attendees were privileged to hear from an exceptional group of panelists whose work continues to drive real impact in healthcare and community engagement:
- Brandi Newman, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE
- Olu Jegede, MD, MHA, CPE, FACP, FAAPL, FACHE
- Brandon Lofton
- Jay Briley
- Melissa Balknight
- Jennifer Sullivan, MD, MPH
Their perspectives challenged conventional thinking, encouraged cross-sector collaboration, and inspired attendees to approach health equity with renewed intention and creativity.
Gratitude to Our Sponsors and Partners
The success of the Symposium would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, whose commitment to equity and community impact made this event a reality:
- Title Sponsor: Cone Health
- Leadership Legacy Sponsor: Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist
- Health Equity Sponsor: Equitable
- Community Empowerment Sponsors: M.L. Best Consulting, Qualify Health, BatteryXchange, Inc., Advocate Health Care, and North Carolina Healthcare Association
- Health Equity Supporter: American Family Insurance
Their partnership reflects a shared dedication to advancing inclusive, community-centered healthcare.
Impact Beyond the Event
We are proud to share that the Symposium raised over $50,000 to support both the execution of the event and the broader mission of the NAHSE North Carolina Chapter. This included a $1,000 donation to Care Ring, an organization providing care to uninsured and underinsured community members.
We look forward to sharing a special thank-you message from Care Ring CEO, Tchernavia Montgomery, MSW, whose leadership and commitment to health equity continue to inspire meaningful change.
Honoring Leadership and Community
A heartfelt thank-you goes to our attendees — your engagement, insight, and passion fuel the collective mission to create healthier, more equitable communities.
We also extend deep gratitude to Simone M. Bacon, Event Chair and Social Committee Chair, for her outstanding leadership and dedication. Her vision and hard work were instrumental in bringing this event to life and ensuring its success.
Continuing the Journey
For those not yet involved with the NAHSE North Carolina Chapter, we encourage you to join this impactful community. Learn more at www.NAHSENC.org or reach out via email at [email protected].
Together, we can continue to shatter silos, strengthen collaboration, and build a healthier, more equitable future for all.
