Humans of NHC: Alyssa Gurney

Haleemah, a Capacity Builder with Central Valley Health Network, spoke with Alyssa Gurney, Chief Strategy Officer at CVHN. Below is the Q&A session. 

Q: Can you tell us about your background and career journey?

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Spanish from a college in Massachusetts and a Master's in Healthcare Administration. Originally from the Central Coast of California, specifically Santa Barbara County, I have consistently dedicated my career to the healthcare industry. I worked with a MedBridge development for about 4 years in different roles.

In the fall of 2017, I relocated to Fresno, California, where I began working with Aetna as a Customer Service Representative. After a year and a half with Aetna, I transitioned to St. Agnes Medical Center, where I served as a Patient Access Manager on the Revenue Team, applying my expertise to enhance patient experience and streamline revenue operations.

In the fall of 2021, I began working with the Graduate Medical Education Office, overseeing the residency program and ensuring a high-quality educational experience for medical residents. Following this, I transitioned to Central Valley Health Network (CVHN) as the Chief Strategy Officer, where I am responsible for driving strategic initiatives and fostering growth within the organization. My favorite part of the job is collaborating with various partners to create programs that support the health centers in our consortium. It is incredibly rewarding to provide any type of support that better serves the patients and the community population.

Q: What are your interests and hobbies outside of work?

Outside of work, I love to stay active through running, yoga, Pilates, and cycling on my Peloton. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, exploring different restaurants with my husband in Fresno, and wine tasting. Additionally, I cherish spending time with my cat and am an avid baker. Fun fact: Baker is my middle name.

I also have a deep love for music across various genres, including pop, hip-hop, and indie rock. Some of my favorite artists are Caroline Polachek and HAIM. My favorite books are *The Nightingale* by Kristin Hannah and *Book Lovers* by Emily Henry.

Q: How do you manage your work-life balance and stay organized?

To create a better work-life balance, I have made a conscious effort to avoid starting work immediately upon waking. I prioritize activities such as watering plants, practicing Pilates, eating a healthy breakfast, or engaging in reflective services. I also ensure to avoid emails or work during the weekends and strive to establish clear boundaries between daily life and work. This approach allows me to spend quality time with family and friends. I also prioritize exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring adequate sleep, knowing when to take a break to recharge.

Q: What advice do you have for NHC members?

For NHC members, my advice is to be patient with yourself and your journey. Some colleagues may have a clear vision of their career goals, while you might still be exploring your path. It’s important to invest in the relationships you build at work, as these connections will be invaluable in your career. They provide support and encouragement as you make progress. Always remember that people are more important than the job itself.

Find ways to experience joy in your work, no matter how small. Challenge yourself and leverage the connections you have; doing so can cultivate a sense of gratitude and fulfillment in your professional life. Embrace the journey, stay open to growth, and value the relationships you form along the way.