Supporting Community Health  

In a strategic push to meet the needs of the current healthcare landscape, the C. T. Bauer College of Business has designed several cohorts of executive education custom programs for DHR Health, providing up-to-date training for leading medical professionals. 

For three years, Bauer College has impacted the healthcare landscape of the Rio Grande Valley by creating professional courses for DHR Health, an organization that provides primary and specialty medical services. The partnership reflects Bauer Executive Education’s broader strategy to endorse a skilled regional workforce. 

 Following the pandemic, DHR Health started planning for the workforce’s future needs, and began incorporating executive education programs. During the past three years, the organization has partnered with Bauer to immerse employees with workforce strategies from faculty experts.  

“At DHR Health, we’re committed to developing strong, capable leaders who can support our teams and deliver exceptional care to our community,” DHR Health Senior Director of Leadership, Culture and Communication Laura Cardenas said. “This program is not just about education — it’s about creating a space for growth. By combining Bauer’s academic expertise with our internal vision, we’re giving our staff a first-class opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills.” 

Bauer faculty experts travel to the Rio Grande Valley to teach courses designed specifically for DHR Health during each of the organization’s sessions, which last around five months each. Prior to each session, the organization determines what courses they want custom-made for the program by assessing employees. Since the partnership started, DHR Health and Bauer have developed and trained eight cohorts. 

“Leadership development is essential across all industries, and more organizations are seeing the long-term value of investing in their people,” Associate Dean for Executive Development Cheryl Baldwin said. 

Following the program, participants will continue reinforcing practical applications by transferring the knowledge they gained to their teams. As more and more employees participate in the program over time, the organization has seen a ripple effect in the workplace culture from people completing the program. 

“The individuals in each cohort are both leaders today and the future of our organization,” DHR CEO Dr. Manish Singh said. “They are applying the leadership principles they are learning in real time and helping build a culture that supports the next generation of caregivers and professionals. The investment we’re making in them is already coming full circle — we’re seeing the impact in their departments and across the health system.” 

For more information about customized executive education offerings, contact the Office of Executive Development.