Meet Our 2025 Speakers

Stephen Abresch
Director of Government Affairs, ASCA
Stephen Abresch is the Director of Government Affairs at the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (ASCA), where he leads federal and state legislative and regulatory strategy for the ASC industry. Prior to joining ASCA in 2019, he worked in state government affairs, serving on the Maryland House Appropriations Committee and later as a policy consultant covering issues from digital privacy to state procurement. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy & Political Science and a Master’s in Public Policy (Social Policy) from George Washington University.
 
Traci Albers, MBA
CEO, Surgical Management Professionals
Traci Albers is the Chief Executive Officer of Surgical Management Professionals (SMP), where she leads the organization’s strategic direction and oversees the operational excellence of its network of surgical facilities. With a career rooted in healthcare leadership, Traci brings decades of experience driving performance, innovation, and physician partnerships in ambulatory surgery centers and specialty hospitals. Traci began her executive journey as CEO of a critical access hospital and rural health clinic in South Dakota, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities in rural healthcare. She joined SMP in 2002 and has since held key leadership roles including Director of Operations and Chief Operating Officer, before being appointed CEO. Traci is a results-driven leader known for her strategic vision, operational expertise, and passion for partnering with entrepreneurial physicians to transform surgical care delivery.

Todd Archbold
CEO, PrairieCare
Todd Archbold is the CEO of PrairieCare, one of Minnesota’s largest psychiatric health systems with 12 locations statewide. He joined PrairieCare in 2006 as a social worker and has held leadership roles including COO and Chief Development Officer before becoming CEO in 2020. Todd also serves as Executive Director of the Psychiatric Assistance Line (PAL), a statewide initiative enhancing collaboration between psychiatry and primary care.
 
Michael Bernard, MD
Chief Medical Officer, Ambulatory Anesthesia Solutions

Michael is a board-certified anesthesiologist with over 20 years of experience. For the last seven years he has focused his efforts entirely on ambulatory surgery centers and improving outpatient surgical outcomes. In addition to leading a large outpatient anesthesia practice, Michael has also been an owner of a successful Orthopedic, Spine, and Pain ASC. Understanding the views of an owner as well as a practicing Anesthesiologist has uniquely positioned Michael to not only strive for high quality care but also accomplish this in a fiscally responsible manner. Having multiple responsibilities within the ASC has also led him to constantly look for operational efficiencies at each ASC he serves, as well as expanding service lines and access to care, without compromising patient safety and quality.

Sarah Ciavarri, M.Div., PCC, CRA, CDTLF
Founder of Level Up Leadership, LLC
Sarah Ciavarri, M.Div., PCC, CRA, CDTLF, Founder of Level Up Leadership, LLC, loves seeing leaders gain clarity about their lives and futures, especially during challenging times. As a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator, trained in all of Dr. Brené Brown’s research, a Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation, and a Certified Reinvention Association, Sarah has traveled nationally keynoting and facilitating workshops on turning insight into action for over 10 years. Sarah is the author of Finding Our Way to Truth: Seven Lies Leaders Believe and How to Let Them Go. In addition, she serves as the Director of Strategic Learning and Coach for a $1.25 million grant she co-authored. Sarah has a background in senior healthcare, most recently serving as Vice President of Spiritual Life, leading a team of 30 chaplains for Cassia, a large senior healthcare provider headquartered in Minneapolis. Being willing to do (almost) anything once, Sarah sang “The Star Spangled Banner” at a nationally televised Twins game and the Twins won!
 
Nicole Dahl, RN
Federal Operations Supervisor, Minnesota Department of Health
Nicole Osterloh is a dedicated professional serving as the Federal Operations Supervisor for Licensure and Certification at the Minnesota Department of Health. In her role, she leads the supervision of Critical Access Hospitals (CAH), Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC), and End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) facilities. Osterloh's responsibilities include overseeing the survey process for healthcare facilities to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. She is a registered nurse with extensive experience in various nursing specialties, including: infection control, vascular surgery, cardiology, orthopedics, podiatry, wound care, ophthalmology, and nephrology. With a strong background in nursing and healthcare regulation, she plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards of patient care across the state.
 
Tane Danger
Co-Founder, Danger Boat Productions
Tane Danger has been using improv to connect people and help them learn to listen and lead for more than 20 years. He is the co-founder of the improv, events and education company Danger Boat Productions. He currently serves as Artist in Residence at the Mayo Clinic Lavins Center for Humanities in Medicine. He’s a regular contributor to TPT Twin Cities PBS, a go-to moderator and speaker for conferences and events nationwide and earlier this year was named a 40 Under 40 by the Twin Cities Business Journal. 

Megan DeHart
Executive Director, Edina Specialty Surgery Center
With over 24 years of experience in nursing, Megan DeHart brings expertise in trauma, critical care, and organ procurement. She holds an MBA in Healthcare Management and has spent the past five years in Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) leadership, currently serving as Executive Director of Edina Specialty Surgery Center. Megan is passionate about advancing patient care through operational excellence and clinical innovation. Based in South Minneapolis, she balances her professional life with raising twin daughters and caring for her twin golden retrievers.

 
Andrew Dickman, CRNA
CEO, Twin Anesthesia
Andrew Dickman received his bachelor's in nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and graduated with a Masters in Nurse Anesthesia from Saint Mary’s in 2017. In 2021 Andrew cofounded Twin Anesthesia, an all-CRNA anesthesia practice. Twin Anesthesia currently employs 17 CRNAs and is the sole anesthesia provider for three ambulatory surgery centers in the Twin Cities area. Andrew currently serves as the CEO for Twin Anesthesia.

Hannah Dufek, LPCC, LADC
Director of Clinical Services, CARE Counseling
Hannah is a licensed mental health therapist and is the Director of Clinical Services at CARE Counseling. She received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and an Addictions Counseling Certificate at Winona State University. Through her work at CARE, Hannah has focused on teaching and training ways to increase confidence and lean into understanding cultural identity and humility as it relates to all aspects of personal and professional relationships.
 
Nels Dyste
Area Vice President, Gallagher | Dyste Williams
Nels Dyste is Area Vice President of Dyste Williams, a division of Gallagher. As a trusted advisor, Nels delivers comprehensive consulting and business insurance solutions to small to mid-size organizations in the dental, oral maxillofacial surgery, and outpatient healthcare sectors. He develops innovative strategies based on careful analysis and market research to protect his clients’ financial and organizational wellbeing. He is active in the Minnesota Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (MNASCA), Minnesota Dental Association (MDA), Minnesota Optometric Association (MOA), Minnesota Medical Group Management Association (MMGMA), Minnesota Veterinary Management Association (MVMA), and other dental, vision, and veterinary advisory groups. He has presented at previously MNASCA Conferences, the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, the Minnesota Optometric Association, and advisor-sponsored educational events.
 
Caitlin Gehlen
Partner| Attorney, Lathrop GMP
Caitlin Gehlen is a trusted advisor to employers, with a practice that focuses on employment and higher education law. Her practice is rooted in helping organizations proactively manage risk, navigate complex legal landscapes, and foster compliant, productive work environments. Caitlin regularly counsels clients on day-to-day employment matters including hiring, performance management, leave and disability issues, terminations and layoffs. She is a skilled litigator, defending employers in discrimination claims, restrictive covenant disputes, whistleblower actions, and retaliation lawsuits. Caitlin has amassed extensive experience conducting policy reviews, investigations, and audits for employers of all sizes and industries, and frequently delivers in-house training on a wide variety of employment topics. In addition to her employment practice, Caitlin advises and trains colleges and universities on a variety of legal issues including Title IX, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA), Clery, FERPA, the Fair Housing Act, and the ADA. Caitlin also regularly conducts higher education investigations on behalf of institutions, including sexual misconduct investigations.
 
Summer Hagy
State Advisor and Executive Director, Minnesota HOSA-FHP
Summer Hagy is the State Advisor and Executive Director of Minnesota HOSA-FHP.  As a part of the Healthforce Center of Excellence, she oversees the development and implementation of innovative educational experiences that serves student members in nearly 50 chapters across Minnesota. Summer’s background encompasses career counseling, higher education, sales and donor development. Beyond her core responsibilities, she expands her work in the healthcare sector by serving as a public member on the Minnesota Board of Nursing and as Central Region State Advisor for the HOSA, Inc. Board of Directors. In her free time, she enjoys listening to podcasts, traveling, cooking, running, and is now getting her Master’s Degree in Public Health.
 
Rick Huston
Deputy Minnesota State Fire Marshal, Healthcare Division, MN Department of Public Safety
Rick Huston is the Deputy Minnesota State Fire Marshal for the Healthcare Division and a Life Safety Code Surveyor with the Joint Commission. With 35 years of experience in healthcare, Rick previously served as Senior Director of Operations at Regions Hospital. He brings extensive expertise in healthcare safety, compliance, and operations to his current role, ensuring fire and life safety standards are upheld across Minnesota’s healthcare facilities.
 
Kristy Jackson
Employee Benefits Account Manager, Gallagher
Kristy provides employee benefits, health management and employee engagement client services to small to mid-size organizations.  She leverages over 20 years of knowledge in the insurance industry to deliver innovative and customized solutions to her clients. Kristy enjoys educating her clients and helping them better understand their coverages. She also manages carrier relationships and administers employee enrollment and benefits administration solutions.    Born and raised in Minnesota, Kristy lives in the north metro with her husband and two children.  She enjoys baking, listening to music and podcasts, and spending time with her family and friends. She is a fan of breakfast food any time of day, especially pancakes.  
 
Melissa Jones, MHA, BSN, RN, RNFA, LNC
Director of Operations, SCA Health
Melissa Jones is a healthcare executive with over 27 years of experience in surgical services and ambulatory care. She is recognized for advancing patient safety, leading high-performing teams, and driving innovation in outpatient surgery. A published author and national presenter, Melissa brings expertise in clinical transformation, operational leadership, and improving patient outcomes.
 
Melissa Kelly, BBA, BSN, RN, CNOR
Medical Liaison - Temperature Management, Medical Surgical Business, Solventum
Melissa Kelly is a Medical Liaison for Solventum’s Medical Surgical Business, specializing in Infection Prevention and Surgical Solutions. With deep expertise in patient warming and normothermia, she brings both clinical and technical insight to her role, having previously served as a Global Clinical Application Engineer. Melissa supports clinicians through peer-to-peer education, scientific presentations, and product discussions, while also serving as a resource for research, case studies, and consulting opportunities. Her background includes 15 years as a Surgical RN-Circulator, including experience at a Level 1 Trauma hospital in St. Paul, MN. She holds a BSN (magna cum laude) from Oakland University and a BBA from the University of Wisconsin. Melissa is passionate about improving surgical outcomes and bridging the gap between clinical practice and innovation.
 
Ikram Khan
Board of Advisor, Health AI Institute
Ikram Khan is a global healthcare innovator advancing human healthspan at the intersection of science, AI, and systems design. As Co-Founder of the Health AI Institute, he leads initiatives that harness artificial intelligence to transform healthcare, promote ethical AI adoption, and drive cross-sector collaboration. He designs future-ready healthcare systems, optimizes care delivery models, and builds public-private partnerships that translate research into real-world impact. He has led transformative healthcare initiatives, including founding Medaxis Healthcare and serving as CEO of India’s largest rural health network. Ikram advises the UN, Rockefeller Foundation, and Gates Foundation, and is a sought-after speaker at international forums. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Health AI at the University of Minnesota, he also co-leads the Phaedon Institute, advancing innovation in longevity and precision health.

Gopal Khanna
Chairman and Senior Fellow, Health AI Institute
Gopal Khanna is an accomplished executive, entrepreneur, and public servant with a career at the intersection of healthcare, artificial intelligence, and government. He has held senior roles in both industry and government, including serving as Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) from 2017 to 2021 under President Donald J. Trump. His public service includes senior positions in the administrations of two U.S. presidents and two governors, including roles as Minnesota’s first Chief Information Officer, Director of Illinois’ Healthcare and Human Services Innovation Incubator, and CFO of the Executive Office of the President at the White House. In the private sector, Khanna has advised leaders across sectors, launched tech startups, and served on numerous boards. He is currently Executive-in-Residence at the Carlson School of Management and Chairman of the Health AI Institute, a nonprofit initiative advancing AI in healthcare through industry and academic collaboration. Khanna has been recognized as a “Top 25 Doer, Dreamer, and Driver” by Government Technology and named one of Twin Cities Business’ “200 Minnesotans You Should Know.” 

Robert Mayhew
Vice President Supply Chain, Simply Supply
With over 20 years of Ambulatory Surgery Center Supply Chain experience, Robert Mayhew has had the privilege to work with hundreds of surgery centers over his career. Robert believes in the value a strong Supply Chain can bring to an organization, not just financially, but to improve the overall patient experience. Robert holds a Bachelor’s and master’s degree in healthcare administration, is a Certified Materials and Resource Professional (CMRP), and serves as a Board Member for the Minnesota Chapter of The Association for Health Care Resource & Materials Management. 

Wade T. Parker, BSN, MHA, RN
Field Director, Ambulatory and Office-Based Surgery, Accreditation and Certification Operations, Joint Commission
Wade Parker is currently a Field Director for the Ambulatory and Office-Based Surgery
Accreditation Program at The Joint Commission. Previously, he was a Joint Commission
Ambulatory Surveyor for 14 years. Prior to joining The Joint Commission, Mr. Parker served in several roles including Quality Manager and Administrator at Surgery Center Southwest, on the campus of Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas; Director of Outpatient Services at Baylor-Richardson Medical Center; and Director of Quality and Risk Management at Red River Regional Medical Center. He has been an RN for the state of Texas since 1988. Mr. Parker received his Master of Healthcare Administration from Texas Woman’s University - Parkland Campus in Dallas, TX; and received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Creighton University in Omaha, NE.
 
Thomas Poul
Principal and Legislative Attorney, Poul Haas P.A.
Thomas Poul is a highly regarded government relations attorney with three decades of public policy experience. His effective advocacy is built on a foundation of strong capitol relationships, expert knowledge of the political and legislative process, exceptional communication skills, and a collegial advocacy approach. Tom’s work in government relations includes legal and legislative representation at the Minnesota Legislature, State Agencies, and the Executive Branch support, counsel on regulatory matters, state and local government procurement assistance as well as political advice and counsel. He assists many different types of clients to strategically navigate government including corporations, trade associations, nonprofits, as well as local governments. Tom’s areas of expertise include health care, education, tax policy, insurance, municipal and public finance, and technology.
 
Ryan Reger
Area Vice President, Producer/Consultant | Health & Welfare Consulting, Gallagher
As Area Vice President, Producer/Consultant in our Employee Benefits Practice at Gallagher, Ryan enjoys creating partnerships with leaders & organizations who value their greatest asset – their employees. Ryan is enthusiastic about the work he does and the organizations he gets to support. His ultimate goal is to be viewed as a trusted advisor. He strives to take the confusion out of employee benefits and healthcare and allow his clients to focus on their mission. He began his career in the insurance industry as a member of Gallagher’s Internship Program and has been a consultant in the Minnesota office for 10 years. He currently leads a team focused on strategically helping organizations attract, retain and engage their workforce. Ryan is a member of Gallagher’s G3 Program, “Growing Gallagher Greats” and the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce’s “Leaders Lab”. Ryan graduated from the University of St. Thomas – Opus College of Business; Business Marketing, Major – Cum Laude honors. He has his Health, Accident & Life Insurance License and Voluntary Benefits Specialist License.
 
Angela Ritchey
Clinical Education Specialist, STERIS
Angela Ritchey has worked in Sterile Processing for more than 15 years as a Tech, Lead, and Associate Manager, playing an active role in opening an off-site reprocessing center, and most recently was Market Manager of Sterile Processing for eight hospitals in the Nebraska and western Iowa. She is currently a Clinical Education Specialist representing STERIS in support of Infection Prevention Technology (IPT) Healthcare. Angela holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and a Master of Arts in English from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She has written several articles for industry publications, holds CRCST, CIS, CHL, and GTS certifications, and is a member of HSPA, AORN, APIC, ASQ, and SGNA.
 
Jim Robinson
Cast Member, Danger Boat Productions
Jim Robinson is a cast member with Danger Boat Productions, where he brings sharp wit and stage presence to The Theater of Public Policy, the civics-inspired improv comedy show. With a background in performance and a passion for engaging audiences around complex issues, Jim uses humor and storytelling to make public policy more accessible—and entertaining. He’s a regular performer in Twin Cities theater and improv circles and is known for his quick thinking, smart characters, and collaborative style.
 
Emily Ruhsam
Employment Counsel and Senior Director of Human Resources, Revo Health
Emily Ruhsam is Employment Counsel and Senior Director of Human Resources at Revo Health, where she leads HR strategy while advising on employment law and compliance. With a dual focus on legal expertise and organizational leadership, Emily partners closely with teams across Revo’s network to support a strong, people-centered workplace culture. She brings deep experience navigating complex HR challenges and aligning talent strategy with business goals.
 
Dan Solomon
Dual-Training Pipeline Manager, MN Dept. of Labor & Industry
Dan Solomon manages the Minnesota Dual-Training Pipeline program at Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry and has been with the agency for over seven years.  Prior to that, he worked as an assistant for the United States Senate and Minnesota Senate.  He has a bachelor’s from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Hamline University.
 
Susan Tomasovic, LPN
Surveyor, AAAHC
Susan has over 30 years of experience in ambulatory surgery center (ASC) operations, compliance, and accreditation readiness. With a strong background in AAAHC, AAAASF, CMS, OSHA, and NFPA standards, Susan has guided numerous facilities through the full spectrum of regulatory requirements—from ground-up development and licensing to successful survey preparation and ongoing quality improvement. Known for turning complex standards into practical, sustainable processes, Susan works closely with clinical and administrative teams to ensure patient safety, efficiency, and long-term compliance.
 
Duck Washington
Cast Member, Danger Boat Productions
Duck Washington is a multi‑talented actor, director, playwright, and audio designer based in the Twin Cities. As a cast member of Danger Boat Productions, Duck brings theatrical flair and improvisational energy to The Theater of Public Policy. Offstage, he leads his own theater ventures and contributes to local arts with writing, directing, and performance work. He’s also been a longtime contributor to the local arts scene — producing, performing at conventions, and championing experimental theater across Minnesota.

 

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