Meet the Executive in Residence at HAP

 
David Wright, MPH
Executive in Residence
George Mason University
Health Administration and Policy

Executive in Residence

The Department of Health Administration and Policy’s Master of Health Administration (MHA) program is among the nation’s top offerings, distinguished by its Executive in Residence. Supporting both undergraduate and graduate students, the Executive in Residence serves as an advisor, mentor, guest lecturer, and leadership coach—bridging academic learning with real-world application.

With extensive healthcare leadership experience, the Executive in Residence provides insights on industry trends, emerging challenges, and best practices. This role also informs curriculum development through case studies and objective guidance on complex management issues. By integrating academic rigor with practical expertise, the Executive in Residence enhances the educational experience and prepares students for leadership in the field.

Role Overview

The Executive in Residence plays several key roles: 

  • Mentorship: Shares career guidance drawn from extensive professional experience. 

  • Networking: Facilitates connections with industry professionals to expand learning opportunities, internships, and employment. 

  • Curriculum Development: Collaborates with faculty to ensure the curriculum reflects current industry trends. 

  • Leadership Development: Provides coaching to cultivate essential leadership skills. 

  • Guest Lectures & Workshops: Delivers specialized sessions that enrich classroom learning. 

  • Capstone Project Support: Offers practical insights and feedback for student projects. 

  • Career Roadmap: Advises on career paths based on individual interests and experiences. 

Meet Dave Wright, Executive in Residence

Dave Wright is a seasoned healthcare executive with more than four decades of experience leading strategic growth for hospitals, technology companies, and not-for-profit organizations. His career spans roles in strategic planning, marketing, and entrepreneurship, as well as adjunct professorships at Virginia Commonwealth University and Marymount University. Additionally, his dual certification as a life and health coach uniquely enhances the guidance he provides to our students. 

“The Executive in Residence program at GMU offers a unique opportunity to engage with accomplished healthcare leaders in a collaborative, supportive environment. Through mentorship, networking, and student-centered initiatives, our Executive in Residence fosters a vibrant community, helping students develop leadership potential and build lasting professional connections.” 

— Brenda Helen Sheingold, PhD, FNAP, Division Director, Health Administration Programs; Maria Uriyo, PhD, PMP, Assistant Professor and MHA Program Coordinator 

Benefits to Students

The Executive in Residence as a core member of the health administration program brings numerous benefits that enhance both the educational experience and the program's overall value for students:

  • Practical Experience: Real-world insights that bridge theory and practice. 

  • Career Development: Guidance on career paths and access to industry networks. 

  • Skill Enhancement: Workshops and lectures that build relevant healthcare skills. 

  • Increased Employability: Connections that open doors to internships and job opportunities. 

  • Leadership Development: Targeted mentoring to cultivate essential leadership skills. 

  • Innovation: Inspiration for entrepreneurial thinking and creative problem-solving. 

Partner Organizations 

The Executive in Residence collaborates with leading national organizations: 

Our Executive in Residence adds significant value to the MHA program by enhancing learning, fostering professional growth, and connecting students to the healthcare industry—ultimately preparing them for successful careers.