Welcome to the conversation

Hello!

It’s a privilege to share with you my first blog as the new president and CEO of Children’s Minnesota. If you’re reading this, it’s probably safe to say you care about kids, their health and the people who make it all possible. So do I.

I started my career as a child life specialist in a children’s hospital, supporting kids and families during some of their toughest moments. That experience motivated me to become a pediatrician. And it was during my medical training that I first walked through the doors of Children’s Minnesota more than 30 years ago.

I was pregnant with my first child and not feeling my best. But what I recall most about that day wasn’t the morning sickness: it was the energy of the place I had walked into. The surgeons I was training with, the staff — I still remember their passion and clarity of purpose. The thought struck me that, one day, I might be a part of this incredible team. And now here I am. It’s an absolute honor to lead a health system that’s been devoted to kids for more than a century.

But as you know, health care is a tough field to be in right now.

Here in Minnesota and across the country, caregivers are facing questions and skepticism about the science we rely on to keep kids healthy, particularly about vaccines. I care deeply about this not as a political concern, but as a societal one — because every child deserves to be protected from preventable diseases.

Children’s health is not a partisan issue; it’s a shared responsibility. Through this blog, I’ll explore how we can continue to invest in kids’ health and keep science at the center of our decisions.

All of us who care about kids need to be their voice, because children can’t speak for themselves.

I’ll also spotlight some of the incredible work happening at Children’s Minnesota. Caring for children and families is a life calling, and it also can be demanding. I’m inspired daily by the strength and resilience of our people. Part of my job is to help our kid experts see the beauty in what they do. I’ll lift up the stories of our teams, consider how our talent changes lives, and celebrate the commitment that makes Children’s Minnesota truly essential.

I hope you’ll continue to join me in examining the complexities and successes of what we do here at Children’s Minnesota, the “why” behind our decisions and the values that guide us. Especially the value at the top of our list: kids first.

Every day brings new challenges and moments that test our resolve. And every day brings beauty. Through it all, Children’s Minnesota will continue to lead with confidence, strength and pride. As we should. And always with “kids first” guiding our way.

There’s a lot to talk about. I’m glad you’re here.

Welcome to the conversation.