Getting to Know: Brian Harris, Administrative Assistant

Following is a Q&A to get to know Brian Harris, Administrative Assistant who began working at the National Health Council (NHC) in early 2020.

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

I graduated college with a degree in history and political science. My aspirations were to see equity and equality for people no matter their race, religion, or socioeconomic status. The NHC, and its members, push to make that a reality in health care.

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

I am honored to work with our Policy and Programs team on racism and disparities in the health care system. It is exciting to be part of a team that will work with our member organizations to ensure there is equity and equality in health care.

PPF Blog: What’s your favorite thing about working at the NHC? 

Working with a team that is ready and willing to help and lend a hand. I’m fairly new to the organization, and the support I have received from everyone is to be commended. Everyone has their own unique wealth of knowledge that they are more than willing to share.

PPF Blog: Tell us about your involvement with NHC governance? How do you collaborate with other members of the NHC staff to ensure governance is a key aspect of the organization?

I am the lead staff person that ensures all aspects of support for the governance of the NHC runs smoothly and oversee our Board meeting timeline for the year. Primarily, I make sure all of the organization’s committees hold meetings scheduled in alignment with preparations for each quarterly Board of Directors meeting. I confirm there are prep calls for each Committee Chair and our Board Chair so that all are prepared for Board Meeting discussion topics. Each quarter, I ensure we get materials to Board members prior to the Board of Directors meeting. Additionally, I maintain a Board member term-rotation list, which helps us identify when a Board member’s term is up, if they are eligible for another term, and which member category they represent. By doing this, I help ensure the NHC nominations process runs smoothly for a diverse Board of Directors.

PPF Blog: Building on your experiences at the NHC, what would you like to do in the future? Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I see myself attaining my graduate degree in history or political science. The goal is to put my degree and governance experience to use whether it is here at the NHC or in government.

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

I am an avid gamer and sneaker collector. If I am not gaming you can usually find me in my happy place—the gym.