Lori VanAuken

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President & CEO, Catholic Charities of Diocese of Rochester DBA Catholic Charities Family and Community Services

Years in current role: 13

What emerging trends or technologies do you think will have the biggest impact on health care in the next 12 months?

I think artificial intelligence (AI) is having a big impact on health care and will yield more efficiencies in the field. At the same time, there is a greater risk to good care without the proper guardrails. In terms of trends, I believe we are headed for one of the biggest public health crises in the United States as the Federal OBBBA is enacted. Policy analysts estimate that changes in Medicaid will leave 1.2 million New Yorkers uninsured, many of whom are from marginalized communities. Unfortunately, I think we will only see an increase in health disparities among Black and Brown communities, despite so many positive efforts in this community to reduce these disparities over the past several years. Our creativity and resolve to reduce disparities will no doubt be tested.

What skills or qualities do you think are essential for the next generation of health care leaders?

Our pace of life is only getting faster as a society. Without a crystal ball, I would think that innovation, creativity and agility will be especially important skills for the success of the next generation of health care leaders. With these skills, and strong psychological flexibility (ability to cope with personal struggles, manage change and maintain their own wellbeing), leaders will be better positioned to lead in a rapidly changing field and world.

How do you stay motivated and inspired in such a demanding and evolving field?

The staff at Catholic Charites Family and Community Services inspire me every day. This workforce of over 1,000 is comprised of some of the most compassionate, knowledgeable and caring people you will ever meet. They serve their clients with passion and walk with them on their journeys to better health and independence. I have worked in the nonprofit sector for 35 years with some talented and wonderful people. However, the caliber of care and compassion of CCFCS staff for clients and each other is unprecedented. It is my privilege to serve with them. They motivate and energize me to be my best.

What’s your favorite way to unwind or recharge outside of work?

I enjoy walking in the many beautiful parks and areas of the Greater Rochester area. Exercise and spending time with my family refuels me.

This profile is part of our Power List for Health Care for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net.