Join Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice as she sits down with Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicare Services (CMS). In this inspiring episode of the Danforth Dialogues, they delve into topics including the role of the public sector in helping to expand health equity in underserved communities in the post-covid era.

RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS EPISODE
Learn more about CMS and Chiquita Brooks LaSure at https://www.cms.gov/about-cms/leadership

CREDITS
Theme Music 🎵OLD FIRE MUSIC from Pond5.com
Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com

Join Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice as she sits down with Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicare Services (CMS). In this inspiring episode of the Danforth Dialogues, they delve into topics including the role of the public sector in helping to expand health equity in underserved communities in the post-covid era.
RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS EPISODE
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Learn more about CMS and Chiquita Brooks LaSure at https://www.cms.gov/about-cms/leadership</li>
</ul>
CREDITS
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Theme Music 🎵OLD FIRE MUSIC from Pond5.com</li>
<li aria-level="1">Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com</li>
</ul>

COVID-19 turned life upside down for all of humanity literally leaving no one untouched or unimpacted. At the onset of the pandemic, Morehouse School of Medicine President and CEO, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, and her leadership team recognized that the health crisis would be the ultimate teaching opportunity for MSM’s students and staff. The school returned to on-campus instruction early in the pandemic because as future healthcare professionals, they felt the students should model behavior that will prepare them to be on the frontlines of any future public health crisis. Morehouse School of Medicine implemented rigorous testing and contract tracing programs which, over the course of the pandemic, kept the school’s positivity rate under 1 percent until the emergence of the omicron variant. The school also launched a community vaccination program and hosted a “Civil Rights Leaders” vaccination event to inspire Black Americans to get the shots.

Given its unique role as a public health resource focused on underserved and minority communities, Morehouse School of Medicine has garnered some valuable leadership insights over the past two years in the battle to stem the impact of COVID-19. Coupled with her own extensive experience as a medical professional, public health expert, and academic executive, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice wants to share these lessons learned with both the school’s students and the wider educational and business community in hopes they might offer help to others.

COVID-19 turned life upside down for all of humanity literally leaving no one untouched or unimpacted. At the onset of the pandemic, Morehouse School of Medicine President and CEO, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, and her leadership team recognized that the health crisis would be the ultimate teaching opportunity for MSM&rsquo;s students and staff. The school returned to on-campus instruction early in the pandemic because as future healthcare professionals, they felt the students should model behavior that will prepare them to be on the frontlines of any future public health crisis. Morehouse School of Medicine implemented rigorous testing and contract tracing programs which, over the course of the pandemic, kept the school&rsquo;s positivity rate under 1 percent until the emergence of the omicron variant. The school also launched a community vaccination program and hosted a &ldquo;Civil Rights Leaders&rdquo; vaccination event to inspire Black Americans to get the shots.
Given its unique role as a public health resource focused on underserved and minority communities, Morehouse School of Medicine has garnered some valuable leadership insights over the past two years in the battle to stem the impact of COVID-19. Coupled with her own extensive experience as a medical professional, public health expert, and academic executive, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice wants to share these lessons learned with both the school&rsquo;s students and the wider educational and business community in hopes they might offer help to others.

Leadership Lessons From The Frontlines Of The Pandemic

Danforth Dialogues with Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG

Danforth Dialogues with  Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG

Policy, Leadership, and the Future of Healthcare with Chiquita Brooks La-Sure

Policy, Leadership, and the Future of Healthcare, Part 1

In this special 50th-anniversary finale of Danforth Dialogues, Host Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice brings together the three past presidents of Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) for a conversation on vision, service, and legacy. Together, they reflect on 50 years of advancing health equity—from building a medical school in temporary trailers to shaping the future of medicine.

Segment Breakdown
Segment 1: Introduction – The Audacity to Lead
Dr. Louis Sullivan reflects on leaving a tenured position at Boston University to build Morehouse School of Medicine from the ground up to serve medically underserved communities.
Segment 2: The Complexities of the Mantle
Dr. James Gavin discusses the unique challenges of following a founder and expanding research infrastructure, while Dr. John Maupin shares how MSM rallied to preserve Grady Hospital during a pivotal moment.
Segment 3: The Shoulders of Giants – Mentorship and Service
The leaders emphasize the necessity of mentorship, holding the standard that "excellence has no modifier," and maintaining a life dedicated to community service.
Segment 4: The Next 50 Years – An Enduring Legacy
A forward-looking reflection on tackling health disparities, strategic leadership transitions, and shaping the institution for its 100th anniversary.

3 Core Lessons on Leadership
Serve a Mission Greater Than Yourself: Leadership begins when you answer a call to serve community needs above personal standing.
Navigate Inheritance and Innovation: Honor founding traditions while boldly forging new paths for growth.
Build for the Future: Success is measured by how well you empower future leaders to thrive long after your tenure.

Connect & Subscribe
Subscribe to Danforth Dialogues on your favorite podcast platform.
Learn more about Morehouse School of Medicine and its 50th-anniversary milestones by visiting our website https://msm.edu/

In this special 50th-anniversary finale of Danforth Dialogues, Host Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice brings together the three past presidents of Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) for a conversation on vision, service, and legacy. Together, they reflect on 50 years of advancing health equity&mdash;from building a medical school in temporary trailers to shaping the future of medicine.
Segment Breakdown
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Segment 1: Introduction &ndash; The Audacity to Lead Dr. Louis Sullivan reflects on leaving a tenured position at Boston University to build Morehouse School of Medicine from the ground up to serve medically underserved communities.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Segment 2: The Complexities of the Mantle Dr. James Gavin discusses the unique challenges of following a founder and expanding research infrastructure, while Dr. John Maupin shares how MSM rallied to preserve Grady Hospital during a pivotal moment.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Segment 3: The Shoulders of Giants &ndash; Mentorship and Service The leaders emphasize the necessity of mentorship, holding the standard that "excellence has no modifier," and maintaining a life dedicated to community service.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Segment 4: The Next 50 Years &ndash; An Enduring Legacy A forward-looking reflection on tackling health disparities, strategic leadership transitions, and shaping the institution for its 100th anniversary.</li>
</ul>
3 Core Lessons on Leadership
<ol>
<li aria-level="1">Serve a Mission Greater Than Yourself: Leadership begins when you answer a call to serve community needs above personal standing.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Navigate Inheritance and Innovation: Honor founding traditions while boldly forging new paths for growth.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Build for the Future: Success is measured by how well you empower future leaders to thrive long after your tenure.</li>
</ol>
Connect &amp; Subscribe
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe to Danforth Dialogues on your favorite podcast platform.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Learn more about Morehouse School of Medicine and its 50th-anniversary milestones by visiting our website <a href="https://msm.edu/">https://msm.edu/</a></li>
</ul>

Reflections on Leadership with Past Presidents of Morehouse School of Medicine

This month on Danforth Dialogues, we are honored to welcome Dr. Regina Benjamin, the 18th United States Surgeon General who served during the Obama administration. A trailblazer in public health and health equity, Dr. Benjamin brings decades of experience and national leadership to the conversation.

A native of Alabama, Dr. Benjamin began her medical journey at Morehouse School of Medicine as a member of the second entering class when it was a two-year institution. She went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and later received an MBA from Tulane University. Dr. Benjamin opened a solo practice in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, which she later transformed into a nonprofit rural health clinic that has earned national acclaim for its service to underserved communities.

Dr. Benjamin’s contributions to the field extend far beyond her clinical work. She has served on the boards of Morehouse School of Medicine, Florida A&M University, and Tulane University. In 1995, she made history as the first African American woman and the youngest person elected to the American Medical Association’s board of trustees. Her many honors include a MacArthur Genius Fellowship, a papal medal from Pope Benedict XVI, and recognition as one of Reader’s Digest’s 100 most trusted people in America. We are especially proud to have Dr. Benjamin as our 2025 commencement speaker.

Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Dr. Regina Benjamin as she reflects on her remarkable journey, groundbreaking achievements, and enduring connection to Morehouse School of Medicine.

Resources Related To This Episode


Visit https://www.msm.edu/

Credits


Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com 


Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

This month on Danforth Dialogues, we are honored to welcome Dr. Regina Benjamin, the 18th United States Surgeon General who served during the Obama administration. A trailblazer in public health and health equity, Dr. Benjamin brings decades of experience and national leadership to the conversation.
A native of Alabama, Dr. Benjamin began her medical journey at Morehouse School of Medicine as a member of the second entering class when it was a two-year institution. She went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and later received an MBA from Tulane University. Dr. Benjamin opened a solo practice in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, which she later transformed into a nonprofit rural health clinic that has earned national acclaim for its service to underserved communities.
Dr. Benjamin&rsquo;s contributions to the field extend far beyond her clinical work. She has served on the boards of Morehouse School of Medicine, Florida A&amp;M University, and Tulane University. In 1995, she made history as the first African American woman and the youngest person elected to the American Medical Association&rsquo;s board of trustees. Her many honors include a MacArthur Genius Fellowship, a papal medal from Pope Benedict XVI, and recognition as one of Reader&rsquo;s Digest&rsquo;s 100 most trusted people in America. We are especially proud to have Dr. Benjamin as our 2025 commencement speaker.
Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Dr. Regina Benjamin as she reflects on her remarkable journey, groundbreaking achievements, and enduring connection to Morehouse School of Medicine.
Resources Related To This Episode
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Visit <a href="https://www.msm.edu/">https://www.msm.edu/</a>
</li>
</ul>
Credits
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Produced by <a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com">ChatWithLeadersMedia.com </a>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com"></a>Theme Music&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pond5.com/artist/oldfiremusic">Old Fire Music</a> from Pond5.com
</li>
</ul>

From Bayou to Beltway: Dr. Regina Benjamin’s Trailblazing Journey in Public Health

On this episode of Danforth Dialogues, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice sits down with the acclaimed actor and keynote speaker, Courtney B. Vance. Known for his Tony, Emmy, and NAACP Image Awards, Vance shares deeply personal stories and profound insights from his journey in life and career.

Vance reflects on growing up in 1960s Detroit, where he witnessed both the vibrancy of his community and the challenges of systemic change. His journey led him to Harvard, Yale, Broadway and beyond. Through it all, he credits his parents’ influence and his determination to make the most of every opportunity.

In this episode, you’ll hear Mr. Vance open up about navigating personal tragedy, including the loss of his father and godson to suicide, and the transformative power of therapy and faith. He discusses his path to acting, the importance of curiosity and persistence, and the encounters that shaped his career. Vance’s message to young people is clear: embrace the unknown, work hard, and remain open to the opportunities that God presents.

Join us for this inspiring episode as Courtney B. Vance shares his life lessons and a message of hope and perseverance for future leaders.


Resources Related To This Episode


Visit https://www.msm.edu/


Learn more and buy The Invisible Ache at https://theinvisibleache.com/

Credits


Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com 


Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

On this episode of Danforth Dialogues, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice sits down with the acclaimed actor and keynote speaker, Courtney B. Vance. Known for his Tony, Emmy, and NAACP Image Awards, Vance shares deeply personal stories and profound insights from his journey in life and career.
Vance reflects on growing up in 1960s Detroit, where he witnessed both the vibrancy of his community and the challenges of systemic change. His journey led him to Harvard, Yale, Broadway and beyond. Through it all, he credits his parents&rsquo; influence and his determination to make the most of every opportunity.
In this episode, you&rsquo;ll hear Mr. Vance open up about navigating personal tragedy, including the loss of his father and godson to suicide, and the transformative power of therapy and faith. He discusses his path to acting, the importance of curiosity and persistence, and the encounters that shaped his career. Vance&rsquo;s message to young people is clear: embrace the unknown, work hard, and remain open to the opportunities that God presents.
Join us for this inspiring episode as Courtney B. Vance shares his life lessons and a message of hope and perseverance for future leaders.
 Resources Related To This Episode
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Visit <a href="https://www.msm.edu/">https://www.msm.edu/</a>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Learn more and buy The Invisible Ache at https://theinvisibleache.com/
</li>
</ul>
Credits
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Produced by <a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com">ChatWithLeadersMedia.com </a>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<a href="https://chatwithleadersmedia.com"></a>Theme Music&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pond5.com/artist/oldfiremusic">Old Fire Music</a> from Pond5.com
</li>
</ul>

Policy, Leadership, and the Future of Healthcare, Part 1

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Danforth Dialogues with Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, FACOG

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