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Eighth Cohort Graduates from Husson University’s Professional and Organizational Development Program

Published on: September 30, 2025

A large group of people holding folders are shown on a stage.

In late August, Husson University graduated its eighth cohort from a program that trains healthcare professionals to be leaders.

The Professional and Organizational Development program, or POD, is a long-term partnership with Northern Light Health that provides leadership training and professional development during the yearlong program. 

“It seems like just yesterday Catharine MacLaren, the vice president of talent & workforce development for Northern Light Health, and I were discussing how we might create a leadership and organizational development program,” said Marie Hansen, dean of Husson’s College of Business. “Now, we are preparing to welcome our ninth cohort. This has been a successful and impactful long term partnership with Northern Light Health.”

The cohort attended 10 meeting days over the course of the year, graduating in late August from the program. Husson faculty led presentations on leadership topics including project management, leadership and followership, critical thinking, healthcare management, team management, engaging presentations, research, systems thinking, creating your own brand, business plans, financial management, employee engagement, and emotional intelligence.  

“This eighth class of POD program graduates also marks eight years of close collaboration between Northern Light Health and Husson University to enhance our leadership skillset both for today and into the future. This experience bolsters the foundation of learning among our leaders and aspiring leaders,” said Paul Bolin, executive vice president, chief people and administration officer. “Looking back at past graduates, many have been promoted since their graduation to more advanced roles due in part to their participation in POD. This is a great example of investing with local partners in the future of Maine’s workforce.”

A group of people are shown on a stage. A blond woman is shaking the hand of another woman.

The eighth cohort included:

  • Chelsea Bean, Recruiter II, Home Office
  • Amy Corliss, PSR III, EMMC
  • Mollie Nelson, HR Manager, Maine Coast/Blue Hill
  • Lesley Chambers, PT, DPT, CWS, Lead Physical Therapist, Mayo
  • Katye Thatcher, Provider Recruiter II, Home Office
  • Amanda Ferguson, Certified Medical Assistant, EMMC
  • Chris Facchini, Manager of Media and Multimedia Strategy, Home Office
  • Erica Wilson, Provider Recruitment Coordinator II, Home Office
  • Amanda Hesseltine, Sourcing Specialist, Home Office
  • Taylor Hibbard, PSR I, EMMC
  • Kelly Romagnoli, RN, BSN, Case Manager, Homecare and Hospice
  • Renee Bouchard, Supervisor Clinical Services/OT, Home Care & Hospice
  • Penny King, Unit Secretary, EMMC
  • Izzy Kirk, PSR II, Acadia
  • Kayla Rodriguez, Provider Recruiter II, Home Office
  • Kimberly Tripp, PSR III, EMMC
  • Amy Conforti, Lead Pharmacy Tech, Pharmacy
  • Brittany McCurdy, Office Supervisor, EMMC
  • Bob Potts, Director, Marketing and Communications Acadia Hospital, Home Office
  • Jennifer Rogers, PSR III, EMMC

For more than 126 years, Husson University has prepared future leaders through innovative undergraduate and graduate degree programs. With a commitment to delivering affordable classroom, online and experiential learning opportunities, Husson offers quality educational programs in areas including emerging technologies; business; finance; education; animal care; legal studies; healthcare; science and humanities; and communication. For more information about educational opportunities, visit Husson.edu.