Breakout Sessions

The world demands a shift from one-size-fits-all clinical trials. Unlocking solutions for global health problems hinges on understanding how diverse populations respond to treatments. However, current participation in clinical trials often does not include many of the communities around the world with critical need. Join us for an in-depth exploration with healthcare leaders on the frontlines of inclusion initiatives. They will share insights on groundbreaking legislation – opportunities and challenges – and exciting trends driving inclusivity in clinical trials. Leave empowered with actionable insights to champion inclusive practices within your company, accelerating progress towards health equity for all. 

Moderator:
Mary Stutts, MHA, HBA

Panelists:
Kendal Whitlock, Walgreens Co.
Otis Johnson, PhD, MPA, Trial Equity
Adrelia Allen, Merck

As a leader in the health industry, you dedicate yourself to creating a more equitable system. While data provides crucial insights, it only tells part of the story. Statistics reveal disparities, but they fail to capture the challenges of navigating a health ecosystem with barriers or the profound human impact of policy decisions on access to care. This session will bridge that gap. We’ll move beyond the cold statistics to explore the lived experiences behind the data, examining health equity through diverse lenses. This deeper understanding of the real-world challenges faced by the populations you serve will empower you to make informed decisions and advocate for change that goes beyond just the numbers. 

Moderator:
Vishal Thakur, Real Chemistry

Panelists:
Greselda Butler, CHCP, FACEHP, Otsuka
Deepa Dahal, DKI Health
Dr. Lauren Powell, MPA, PhD, Biogen
Casilda Barnes, PharmD, RAC, Kyowa Kirin, Inc. - U.S.

Women are the backbone of healthcare, comprising 70% of the global workforce, yet they are exiting the industry at alarming rates, and we do not have the pipeline to replace them. Studies show a clear link between a representative healthcare workforce and improved health outcomes for all patients. This session will explore the nuanced reasons behind this global trend, examining how factors like location, societal expectations, family needs, and workplace culture impact women’s decisions to leave the industry. Hear from global leaders who will share data-driven insights on the current and projected workplace shortage and explore actionable strategies to retain women and empower them to thrive in healthcare. 

Moderator:
Nikki Jones, HBA

Panelists:
Nicola Greenway, Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Anna Simon, ZS
Erin Krolikiewicz, Novartis
 

Millions lack access to essential medicines, innovative technologies, basic preventative care, and necessary healthcare workforces – a stark reality in our interconnected world. This isn’t just a moral crisis, it’s a call to action. This session unites leaders from across the health ecosystem to explore the untapped potential of policy. They’ll delve into how shaping international health policies can break down access barriers, incentivize breakthroughs for neglected diseases, and support workforce development and training. Walk away with not only actionable strategies to leverage your influence, but a heightened awareness of the opportunities that exist for leaders to shape policies that accelerate health equity. 

Moderator:
Mike Huckman, Real Chemistry

Panelists:
Winston Kirton, BakerHostetler
Walter Tejada Garcia, Organon
Patty Fritz, UCB
 

Imagine a healthcare system where leadership reflects the diversity of its patients, unlocking the transformative power of balanced leadership. This session highlights trailblazing companies that are championing women in leadership, showcasing how gender-equitable practices lead to innovative and impactful healthcare solutions. Hear from leaders who have successfully integrated the unique experiences and expertise of women alongside men to build high-performing teams. Gain actionable insights and practical strategies to harness the full potential of your workforce, advancing toward a more equitable and effective healthcare future for all. 

Moderator:
Nadine Lafond, Ogilvy Health

Panelists:
Greg Lewis, Calcium+Company
Julie Dunlap, Eli Lilly and Company
Hayden Majajas, Takeda Pharmaceutical
Janine Ting Jansen, Organon

Step into the future of women’s healthcare with this session, which showcases how bold industry leaders are expanding product and service lines to address the unique health care needs of women. Meet the trailblazers behind groundbreaking innovations that are setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of care. Discover how these companies are revolutionizing their offerings by transforming inclusive research into impactful products and services. Be inspired by their success stories and learn practical strategies to accelerate progress within your own organization, ensuring your company plays a pivotal role in this critical evolution. 

Moderator:
Mary Stutts, MHA, HBA

Panelists:
Liza Vityuk, McKinsey & Company
Charlotte Owens, MD, FACOG, Organon
Stephanie Sassman, Genentech
Oriana Kraft, FemTechnology 
 

The future of healthcare powered by AI and digital technology is here, and it's built on collaboration. This session brings together various stakeholders to dive deep into the power of partnerships to unlock the transformative potential of these innovative tools. Witness how visionary leaders from across the industry are joining forces to overcome limitations of emerging technology. They'll showcase groundbreaking collaborations and innovations that are scaling effective solutions, ensuring they address the diverse needs of a global patient population. Leave the session inspired with practical strategies for fostering successful partnerships that will empower the future of equitable healthcare. 

Moderator:
Breanna Zwart, Microsoft

Panelists:
Ebony Dashiell-Aje, PhD, BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Christina Busmalis    
Cal Lai, AskVet
Michael Crawford, Howard University

Forget incremental change – the award-winning Gender Equity Think Tank (GETT), powered by the HBA, is rewriting the script on gender equity. They are a think tank of trailblazing organizations, united by a mission to make gender parity a lived reality. This session brings together senior executive members of the GETT and data partner Dr. Randall Pinkett of BCT Partners to discuss their approaches to dismantling systemic barriers. Through data, insights, and collaboration, they have developed actionable strategies for accelerating progress. Learn more about the transformative organizational changes and promising practices that are empowering women at member companies, the significance of the partnership with BCT, and how your company can benefit from this United Force for Change. 

Moderators:
LaToya Tapscott, HBA
Susan Childs, LCA Enterprise and Consulting LLC

Panelists:
Dr. Randal Pinkett, BCT Partners
Aida Sabo, Parexel International
Julie Ross, Advanced Clinical

Forget the myth of a global dream team magically formed by diverse resumes. This session dives deep into the secrets of building high-performing, cross-cultural teams. Hear from accomplished global leaders who will unveil their strategies for mastering cultural intelligence, fostering trust, and ensuring the right skill sets are on board. Discover how these exceptional leaders prepare their teams for success, navigate the complexities of managing global dynamics, and resolve conflicts that often arise when cultures intersect. Leave inspired to create a truly transformational team that thrives in today’s interconnected world. 

Moderator:
Patrick Bartosch, PhD, HBA

Panelists:
Christina Hughes, Reverba
Carla Pearson, GSK
Asha Hope, Bayer
Tracy Picon, Microsoft
 

130 years for gender equity in healthcare leadership? Unacceptable. Imagine a future where the talent and perspectives of all are driving innovation. This session will throw out the 130-year wait time and bring together visionary women leaders in the healthcare industry who are rewriting the narrative. Discover how shifting your mindset is the key to believing you have the power to be the leader who breaks barriers. Learn how to cultivate the confidence and strategic thinking required to unlock unprecedented progress on gender equity and health equity in your organization. 

Moderator:
Elyse Margolis, Real Chemistry

Panelists:
Monica Weekes, Cognizant
Nicola Greenway, Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Kristin Bhavnani, Jazz Pharmaceuticals
Melissa Horn, GSK

You know a healthy team is a high-performing team. But how do you translate that knowledge into tangible results? You're likely juggling competing priorities and finding the time and resources to invest in team well-being can feel overwhelming. Traditional approaches might be falling short, leaving you searching for innovative solutions. This session offers a roadmap to transform your team's health and performance while continuing to nurture your own. Discover how to leverage data-driven insights to identify areas for improvement, create a culture of well-being, and implement practical strategies that drive measurable results.  Leave this session equipped to build and lead a healthier, happier, and more productive team. 

Moderator:
Charlotte Owens, MD, FACOG, Organon

Panelists:
Dr. Lisa Herbert, Just the Right Balance, LLC
Erica Jeffries Purdo, Johnson & Johnson
Kimchi Hoang Lazier, McKinsey & Company
Rose-Ann Blenman Abange, PHD, CPM, Johnson & Johnson
 

Forget the myth that finance is just for CFOs and their teams. This session will shatter that stereotype, featuring powerful executives who leverage financial expertise to drive change. They will reveal why financial acumen completes a well-rounded leadership portfolio, along with managing teams, innovation, and product lines, and even building new businesses. Learn how these executives leveraged their finance capabilities to advance, from crafting impactful presentations to justifying new hires and proposing groundbreaking product lines. Walk away with a newfound appreciation for how you, too, can leverage your financial expertise to propel your career, lead transformational initiatives, and even build the next big thing.  

Moderator:
Kimberley Goode, BMO

Panelists:
Steve Rosen, Otsuka America Pharmaceutical Inc
Aixa Colon-Semidey, Johnson & Johnson
Nilsa Sanchez, AstraZeneca