Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know Crystal Bell, senior manager, IT corporate solutions.

Continue reading to learn more about Crystal:

Describe a typical workday in your life.  

No two days are exactly alike in my role, which is one of the things I enjoy most. Most mornings start with a cup of coffee and a review of priorities across our corporate technology portfolio. I check in on the health of key platforms and other business systems while staying close to project progress, budgets, risks, timelines and vendor relationships.

Throughout the day, I spend time partnering with business leaders, vendors and our sourcing team to evaluate technology solutions, solidify contracts and explore new capabilities. I also monitor workflow and tickets to work with teams to resolve issues and requests in our RITA and VERN systems and those that make their way through Teams. Occasionally, audits find their way into my day.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job, though, is supporting my team. I genuinely enjoy mentoring, coaching and helping people grow in their careers. Whether it’s celebrating accomplishments, encouraging new skills, providing guidance through challenges or creating opportunities for cross-training, I take pride in building a strong team that supports one another and continues to learn and evolve together.

At the end of the day, my role is really about connecting people, processes and technology—helping the organization move forward while empowering my team to do their best work.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

I love spending time outdoors and being creative. You’ll often find me riding my bike, kayaking or enjoying the beach and the ocean whenever I get the chance. I’m also an active artist and enjoy creating mosaics and painting—it’s a great way for me to relax and express my creativity.

Most importantly, I cherish spending time with my family and traveling to new places. And when I’m looking for a quieter moment, there’s nothing better than settling in with a good book and getting lost in a great story.

It’s a mix of adventure, creativity, family and a little bit of peaceful downtime that helps me recharge and stay inspired.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about their quirky personality traits and share a picture!

Absolutely! I have a six-pound yorkie-poo named Tori, and she’s been my little sidekick. For such a tiny dog, she has a huge personality.

If I give her a food she’s not interested in, she’ll simply refuse to eat it and give me the “stare”. And to prove her point, she’ll take matters into her own paws by carrying her kibble one piece at a time and strategically placing it next to one of us as to say you eat it.

She’s also very clear about her expectations when it comes to affection. If you’re giving her a good head rub and stop before she’s ready, she’ll immediately start nudging your hand as if to say, “Excuse me, I’m not finished being pampered yet!”

Tori goes just about everywhere with me. She even joins me on bike rides in her little backpack carrier, which she absolutely loves. Whether we’re exploring outdoors or relaxing at home, she’s always happiest when she’s with her people.

She’s funny, stubborn, affectionate and endlessly entertaining, and I honestly can’t imagine life without her.

What do you like best about your current position?

What I enjoy most about my role is the variety, every day brings something different. I love that I’m constantly learning, whether it’s about new technologies, different parts of the business or new ways to solve challenges. There’s always an opportunity to grow and expand my perspective.

I also have the privilege of working with incredibly talented people across the organization. The relationships I’ve built are one of the things I value most about my job. I can never go without mentioning my team who makes my job worth having.

Perhaps most importantly, I believe in Magellan’s mission and the purpose behind what we do. Knowing that our work ultimately supports individuals and families during some of the most important moments in their lives, gives me a strong sense of purpose.

The combination of meaningful work, continuous learning and great people makes it a role I truly enjoy.

What is your biggest strength?

I create an environment where my team can succeed by providing clear direction (as best as we can), removing obstacles and encouraging both personal and professional growth. I coach team members through challenges, align their work with business priorities and empower them to make confident decisions. I recognize accomplishments, encourage cross-training and continuous learning and help individuals develop skills that prepare them for future opportunities.

What is the best career advice that you have received or have learned through your own experiences?

Believing that successful leadership is measured not only by the projects we deliver, but by the confidence, capability and growth we inspire in the people who deliver them.

That quiet voice that questions your abilities or tells you that you don’t belong can be powerful, but it doesn’t have to lead. Understanding imposter syndrome can help you build confidence and resilience.

Imposter syndrome can affect anyone, at any stage. About 62% of people experience it. Doubting readiness, questioning success or worrying about keeping up can limit growth and wellbeing. Some things to try this month and beyond:

• Name it: Recognize these thoughts as common and temporary.
• Track wins: Keep a simple list of accomplishments, skills and positive feedback.
• Challenge it: Replace self-criticism with realistic, compassionate self-talk.
• Connect: Talk with trusted colleagues or mentors for perspective.

Small shifts in thinking can quiet the inner critic and help you show up with confidence.

Sources: National Institutes of Health, Healthwise

Summer brings fun and flexibility, but changes in routine, activities and social pressures can increase stress for children and teens. Stress may show up as irritability, worry, sleep changes, headaches, stomachaches or withdrawal from social activities.

Help kids relieve stress in healthy ways:

• Exercise: Walking, biking, outdoor play and sports help release tension and boost mood.
• Write or draw: Journaling or creative art helps children express worries and process emotions.
• Let feelings out: Invite kids to talk, laugh, cry and safely express anger.
• Reduce screen time: Encourage board games, hobbies, social time and volunteering.
• Relax: Practice breathing exercises, meditation, prayer, yoga or muscle relaxation.
• Laugh together: Humor lowers stress and builds connection.
• Eat healthy foods: Nutritious meals support energy, mood and emotional balance.

Small daily habits can make a big difference in helping kids feel calm, confident and supported.

For Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), self-care and nourishment aren’t just about healthy habits—they’re about restoration, resilience and reclaiming wellbeing in a world that often makes these things harder to access.

Research shows that BIPOC communities experience higher rates of diet-related illnesses like diabetes, obesity and
heart disease*—conditions that can increase chronic stress and affect mental health**.

Practicing self-care and making intentional nutrition choices can lower stress, uplift your spirit and strengthen your
mental wellbeing. Consider these tips.

1. Breathe and be still: Deep breathing and meditation practices from various traditions can help reduce stress and restore balance.
2. Move with joy: Dancing to music rooted in your culture—or others—can bring joy and celebrate self-expression.
3. Seek affirming support: Supportive professionals who respect your identity and lived experiences can help you develop strategies to flourish.
4. Explore nutrient-rich foods: Traditional greens and vegetables from various cultures contain nutrients that support positive mood, focus and energy.
5. Honor culinary traditions: Cooking with familiar herbs and spices can connect you to your heritage and nourish your wellbeing.

When we honor our roots through self-care and nourishment, we restore balance and build resilience.

*SD Food Vision 2030

** Harvard Health B-BIF020E (/25)

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know Mary Bozza Wise, senior manager, customer experience analytics.

Continue reading to learn more about Mary:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

Our work runs in distinct cycles – survey preparation, survey distribution, data collection and reporting. We are in our busy season of survey distribution and data collection. This means a lot of my day is spent in Qualtrics, our survey application, and Outlook. I check response counts in our active survey projects, make sure all is running well in Qualtrics, and then go to our Magellan Experience inbox in Outlook to make sure there aren’t any items that need follow-up by my team or forwarded to other groups for follow-up. I also make sure my team members have what they need to complete their tasks for the day/week and help move through any barriers they are experiencing. I do a good bit of programming, testing and consultation for the Qualtrics application to support data collection efforts beyond experience surveys that algin with the needs of our end users. I support our business owners throughout the survey process to make sure we are meeting requirements and using our resources responsibly. If questions or issues come up, I work with the appropriate folks to reach a reasonable solution. As one of my managers said early in my 25 year Magellan career, I make sure the trains run on time.

I am also the chair of the Magellan chapter of cPRIDE. While not a daily task, I do spend time weekly meeting with our chapter leaders, the other Employee Inclusion Group (EIG) leaders and creating or supporting content to create a supportive community for our members. I learn so much from this community and am honored to represent the group to the best of my ability. For over a year, I have been posting daily affirmations on our cPRIDE Teams channel to share community, support and connections in a positive way. It’s a small thing but it means a lot to me especially on tough days when a little smile goes a long way.

What are you currently reading and/or watching?

Currently, I am reading Joan Life Beyond the Script by Joan Lunden.   As someone who watched her co-host Good Morning America, I can connect to the televised events that she shares. Her story overall is very compelling for anyone who wonders if they can forge their own path in both work and life.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

I’m a big reader and fan of puzzles. I read in any version – audio book, e-book or physical book – but prefer to listen to biographical and historical books and read anything else. I participate in our library’s puzzle swap, so I can try new puzzle challenges. One of my favorites is this one I completed with my Mom last Summer. I’m a BIG fan of artist Frida Kahlo and this puzzle was a good balance between forward progression and challenge.

What do you like best about your current position?

All the people I work with throughout Magellan over the course of my career. I get to interact with multiple teams and learn what they do. There’s always something new to learn, share or figure out. I like digging in behind the scenes to see how things work and, where appropriate, think of ways to make the process better.

How do you feel you excel in supporting your team(s)?

For my direct reports, I really try to help them meet work goals and personal goals. For teams I support, I enjoy and excel at listening to what they want to achieve and guide them to the best possible path to get there. It’s like solving a puzzle in the day to day.

What is the best career advice that you have received or have learned through your own experiences?

Listen to the end users and listen to the front line. When I was in graduate school, I was a scheduler for a very busy endocrinologist. I spent time listening to what the patients wanted even when it was difficult. I found solutions that worked for the patients and the doctors, making the work in the office easier for everyone. I listened and they listened. Even if I can’t give people exactly what they are looking for, being listened to helps smooth out the process of reaching a goal/solution.

Working parents juggle two demanding roles at once, showing up daily for their family and striving to bring their best self to work. Whether the day goes smoothly or gives way to chaos, the ability to bounce back and manage it all is vital for your wellbeing.

• Start with self-compassion: Cut yourself some slack. You won’t always be perfect, and that’s okay. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would show to a friend.
• Build a support network: You don’t have to do everything alone. Identify a friend, family member or neighbor you can lean on, and ask for help before you get overwhelmed.
• Set boundaries: Protect your energy by saying no to non-essential commitments. You can’t be at every event or volunteer for every school function. Choose what matters most and let go of the rest without guilt.
• Take a time-out: When stress builds up, recharge with small breaks. A five-minute walk, deep breathing or a quick call with someone you trust can help you reset with a clearer mind.

Working on social wellbeing

Being a busy parent and professional whose life often revolves around other people’s schedules can sometimes feel isolating. Build a support network of at least two people you can turn to when you need help or a break.

• Choose people who make you feel safe, respected and genuinely listened to, and let them know that you’d like to include them in your support circle.
• Describe the signs that might indicate you’re stressed and how they can best support you.
• Ask for help before you become overwhelmed to prevent a stress snowball.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know one of our military & family life counselors (MFLCs), Karla E. Sanchez Rivera, MSC, MDiv, LPC. With May being Military Appreciation Month, there’s no better time to get to know Karla!

Continue reading to learn more about Karla:

Describe a typical workday in your life?

I start my day by reviewing my schedule to stay organized and prepared for my clients. I also check my emails and phone to make sure I haven’t missed any messages, calls or voicemails.

Throughout the day, I meet with clients for counseling or consultation. I work with service members and their spouses. Some clients walk into the office while others call to schedule appointments. It is truly an honor to serve through Army Community Service, as well as support members of the Reserve and Puerto Rico Air National Guard.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

I enjoy spending time at home with my family and my pets, playing my guitar and having a good cup of Puerto Rican coffee. I also dedicate part of my time to serving the parish I lead in Puerto Rico, which brings me great joy and purpose.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about their quirky personality traits and share a picture!

I have a very special love for my dogs. It all started in 2012 with my Miniature Schnauzer, Frida, who quickly became the heart of our home. Later, she had a puppy named Luna. About ten years ago, my family and I rescued a beautiful Golden Retriever mix. He has been one of the biggest challenges in my life, as he is a hunting dog who still longs to roam freely and explore the community. Seven years ago, we adopted another mix-breed dog named Estrella. She is shy, gentle and incredibly sweet.

What drew you to Magellan?

I first learned about Magellan around 2020 during the pandemic. At that time my previous company closed and I found myself unemployed. Although I don’t clearly remember the exact moment I applied, I do remember having an interview and thinking to myself, “This is the job I want.”

However, it took some time before that opportunity became a reality. In 2022, I finally received the call, and I said yes without hesitation. I was truly inspired by the mission of the organization and the responsibility that came with the role.

Since September 2022, I have been on this journey, learning and growing both professionally and personally. I feel proud to be part of a great organization and a great team with a clear vision of providing support and caring for our service members and their families.

What do you like best about your current position?

I truly love my job and being part of a strong MFLC team in Puerto Rico. One of the most meaningful aspects of my role is being able to support service members and their families. I value listening with empathy and compassion to their stories, fears, challenges and successes.

It is very rewarding to help bring light into their lives, guide them through their process and support them to improve their wellness. I enjoy helping them recognize their strengths and celebrate their progress and find healthy ways to manage difficulties.

I am also grateful for the opportunity to participate in C-pride, Employee Inclusion Groups (EIGs) and Business Innovation initiatives and to collaborate with leaders who truly demonstrate commitment to the mission.

What is your biggest strength?

I consider myself a people-oriented person who genuinely enjoys connecting with others.

I strive to create a peaceful and welcoming environment wherever I go, especially by listening attentively and offering a warm presence. I believe many people are navigating life without a clear sense of purpose or feeling unheard. Sometimes, what they need most is empathy, respect and someone who is willing to truly listen. I see that as one of my greatest strengths and a calling in the work I do.

Feeling connected to others plays a significant role in mental health. If you’ve experienced loss, trauma or isolation, or felt marginalized or bullied, community can be especially important. While finding or building community may take time, it can make a real difference. Strong relationships reduce stress, support mental health and help make life more meaningful. 

How to engage with your community

Community can start with small, everyday actions that fit your time, comfort level and interests. It doesn’t have to be a lot. Choose what feels right for you.

• Support your neighborhood: Get to know neighbors, check in on someone nearby or take part in activities that bring people together.
• Practice active kindness: Simple gestures, like listening or offering help can strengthen relationships.
• Take part in local events: Attend community gatherings, fairs or activities to meet others and learn what’s happening in your area.
• Use shared spaces: Spend time in libraries, community centers, parks or other places people gather.
• Join a club or group (online or in person): Look for groups focused on your interests, culture or shared experiences.
• Get outside: Participate in walking groups, community gardens or outdoor activities.
• Care for your environment: Help keep shared spaces clean, safe and welcoming.
• Volunteer or give your time: Contribute your skills or help others through local organizations or causes.

Community takes many forms. One small action, online or in person, can build connection and support and create brighter days.