Getting to Know: Racquel Codling, Director, Meetings & Events

Following is a Q&A to get to know Racquel Codling, Director, Meetings & Events, who began working at the National Health Council (NHC) in February 2022.

Putting Patients First (PPF) Blog: Why did you want to work for the NHC?

I seek out nonprofits whose mission statements support our communities and are aligned with my values and passion. The National Health Council’s mission emphasizes its support and commitment to people, and their families, living with chronic diseases and disabilities.

PFF Blog: What upcoming projects are you excited about working on?

I’m excited about convening in-person at our upcoming 2022 Health Leadership Conference, scheduled for May 3-5 in sunny Coral Gables, FL. I’m currently learning about the conference program, event logistics, and attendee demographics; I’m thrilled to take over the reins in planning this premier event. I’m also looking forward to getting to know my talented NHC colleagues and meeting our passionate members.

PFF Blog: You coordinate NHC meetings and events. Tell us about your planning process and why it’s important.

It’s all about continuous communication with stakeholders, internal and external, during the entire planning process. It’s also important to inform everyone about the conference planning process, expectations of staff, and key milestones. It’s critically important to keep everyone – including myself – on track and ensure all conference deliverables are met in a timely manner. The goal is to have a successful conference and always seek opportunities to improve programming and the attendee experience, streamline processes, and become more efficient in our planning efforts.

PFF Blog: Tell us something about you personally. What do you do outside of work?  

During the pandemic, I began gardening and I must admit, I’ve become quite good at it. I’m a foodie and my goal is to travel more internationally. I enjoy becoming immersed in a new culture through their food, people, art, history, and culture.