Spotlight Magellan helps coworkers connect beyond day-to-day work through guided conversations that highlight personal interests, meaningful work and the impact people make across Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know Jay Sledge, vice president service operations and claims solutions, who has been with Magellan for 31 years.

Continue reading to learn more about Jay:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

No two days are exactly alike, which I prefer, but my focus remains consistent: helping my teams stay aligned, make informed decisions and execute effectively. I also spend time working with people across the organization to address challenges, monitor performance, manage risk and keep strategic initiatives moving forward. My work ranges from resolving operational or regulatory requirements to supporting transformation efforts, financial planning, talent development and culture initiatives. At its core, my role is about bringing clarity to complexity and ensuring we remain focused on the priorities that matter most.

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

I love my monthly visits to Josey Records in Dallas, Texas. I can spend hours looking through stacks of old vinyl records. On a recent trip, I found the very first record I ever owned, KTEL’s High Energy from 1979. I took this to school every Friday to listen to during art class until my fifth-grade teacher asked that I never bring it again – LOL!

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

Meet Parker, our six-year-old Weimaraner. He’s dedicated years of effort to his ongoing campaign against squirrels and birds, who continue to mock him from the trees. He’s still chasing the dream, but we’re pretty sure actually catching one would ruin the whole experience for all of us.

What drew you to Magellan?

With a foundation in social work, I have always been driven by the belief that people deserve access to quality healthcare, meaningful support and community, making Magellan’s mission feel like a natural fit throughout my career.

What is your biggest strength?

My greatest strengths are bringing people together around a common goal, building trust-based relationships and translating strategy into action. I’m at my best when helping teams collaborate across boundaries, creating an environment where people feel empowered to contribute and delivering results through partnership, accountability and continuous improvement. If we can have a little fun along the way, even better.

What is the best career advice that you have?

Don’t mistake motion for momentum. Having a clear direction, alignment of people and measuring what truly matters is how change really happens.

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 Alex Llamas, program director, Early Childhood Supports and Services (ECSS).

Continue reading to learn more about Alex:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

One thing I have learned in my role is there really is no “typical” day and that is one of the things I enjoy about it. My day may include meeting with state partners, collaborating with providers across Louisiana, supporting my team, reviewing program data or working with community organizations to increase awareness of Early Childhood Supports and Services. At the center of all of it is the same goal: making sure children and families have access to the support they need to grow, thrive and be healthy.

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

My favorite thing to do is spend time with my wife and our family. We have a beautiful six-year-old daughter and a three-year-old son who definitely keeps us busy, but they also keep me grounded. With how busy work can get, I really value the time I get to just be present with my family, whether we’re traveling, hanging out at home or simply making memories together. They bring me so much joy and are honestly one of the best ways for me to disconnect and recharge. Spending time with them helps me slow down, enjoy the little moments and remember what matters most.

Do you have any recipes that you love to make (or have made for you)?

Growing up in Mexico, food has always been a big part of family and bringing everyone together. One of my absolute favorites is pozole verde de pollo, and I have to say, my mom makes the best one! It’s a traditional Mexican soup made with chicken and hominy in a flavorful green broth, topped with fresh lettuce, radishes, onion, lime and a little spice. For me, it’s more than just a favorite meal, it reminds me of home, my childhood and time spent with family.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is very meaningful to me because it gives me an opportunity to remember where I come from and celebrate the traditions that shaped who I am today. I grew up in a small town called Los Llamas, Zacatecas, Mexico, where family, community and traditions were part of everyday life. I grew up surrounded by my primos (cousins), many of whom lived nearby, and some of my best childhood memories are of all of us growing up together.

One of the things I love most about my Hispanic culture is our sense of family and community. We come together during the good times to celebrate, but we also come together during difficult times to support one another. That sense of community has stayed with me throughout my life and is something I hope to pass on to my children.

What traditions around Hispanic Heritage Month do you and/or your family celebrate?

One celebration that is especially important to me is Mexican Independence Day. The celebration begins on the evening of September 15 with El Grito and continues on September 16, Mexico’s Independence Day. Growing up, celebrations like this meant family, food, music, traditions and being together as a community.

Now that I live in the United States, I still enjoy seeing my friends and community celebrate our heritage by wearing traditional Mexican and Hispanic clothing and coming together through food, music and many of the traditions we grew up with. It brings back wonderful memories of home and reminds me that even though I may be far from the small town where I grew up, my culture and traditions continue to be an important part of who I am. I also enjoy sharing those traditions with my children so they can understand where our family comes from and take pride in their heritage.

What drew you to Magellan?

I was drawn to Magellan because of the opportunity to make an impact on a larger scale. My professional background has centered around behavioral health, children, families and community-based services, so the opportunity to help lead an initiative focused on infant and early childhood mental health felt very meaningful to me. ECSS allows us to intervene early, strengthen families and help build a foundation that can positively influence a child for years to come.

What do you like best about your current position?

What I enjoy most is knowing that we are building something that can make a lasting difference for children and families across Louisiana. I have the opportunity to work with providers, state partners, community organizations and an incredible group of professionals who all bring different perspectives to the table. Seeing a program move from planning and implementation to actually reaching families is incredibly rewarding. Every referral represents a child and family who may now have access to support they did not have before.

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

I believe leadership starts with relationships. I try to create an environment where people feel supported, heard and comfortable bringing both successes and challenges to the table. I believe in recognizing people for what they do well, providing guidance when they need it and being willing to have difficult conversations when necessary. I also never want to ask someone to do something I am unwilling to do myself. At the end of the day, my goal as a leader is not simply to manage the work; it is to help people grow, feel valued and understand how their individual contributions connect to the larger mission.

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 Timothy Kolber, report analyst, analytical services department.

Continue reading to learn more about Timothy, who started with Magellan in March of 2010 after 10 plus years in the mortgage/banking industry:

What are you currently reading and/or watching?  

I am currently watching From, Lucky, House of Dragons and Hawk (Netflix, Prime and Apple shows) and the Phillies and Eagles (Philadelphia, PA sports).

Do you have any recipes that you love to make (or have made for you)?  

Love Jersey Shore pizza (Mack’s and Manko Manko) and local wings from a local sports bar (Jug Handle Inn).

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

Spending time with my wife at the Jersey Shore (Avalon, Stone Harbor, Sea Isle and Wildwood).

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

I have three male cats. Our newest addition is a kitten we got last year. We named him Loki, and he certainly lives up to his namesake (Loki is a Marvel Studios character and is the God of Mischief and his tricks and schemes wreak havoc across the realms).

Loki is the most mischievous cat we have ever had. He had somehow been messing with the air conditioning vents in the floor. I came down an hour before my work day to find the cover open. I looked all over the house for him and then I heard a cry coming from the vent. I began calling for him through the vent and thankfully, he followed my voice and came to me. I had to permanently attach all the vents. He was scared—but not hurt. Very lucky he didn’t get far.

What drew you to Magellan?

Prior to working at Magellan, I worked for two major banks/mortgage companies. I feel better working for a company like Magellan and supporting members, providers and clinicians in managing the health and wellness of our members. I work for the good of the people.

What do you like best about your current position?

As a reporting team member, I work on claims and authorizations reporting for public sector contracts. I align reporting work with system migration efforts so the team can support ongoing business needs. I am fortunate to work with a wonderful team.

I also like working with people in different parts of the country on different contracts. As a remote employee since 2020, I have learned that remote working is viable and can be mostly flawless.

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

1.) Keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to express issues with your immediate supervisor. 2.) Work on your required trainings when assigned. If you do this, it will never weigh on you to finish.  😊

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.

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.

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.

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 Teresa Rollin, senior IT analyst. With April being National Volunteer month, Teresa was a perfect fit!

Continue reading to learn more about Teresa:

What is your favorite volunteer activity?

During my 20 plus years at Magellan, I have had the pleasure of organizing volunteer events for a small but mighty team of Maryland employees. We spend our volunteer time off (VTO) hours at Restore/Habitat for Humanity, Howard County Food Bank and the Howard County Garden that grows food for the Howard County Food Bank. I look forward to working with fellow employees on a common goal outside of an office setting and enjoying a meal afterwards.

Describe a typical workday in your life.

As an IT analyst for Magellan, my day starts with a short team meeting to discuss project progress. Meetings, testing, documentation and collaborating with developers and other teams take up the rest of the day.

Do you have any recipes that you love to make (or have made for you)?

Salsa Verde Chicken chili!

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

I enjoy attending festivals on my time off. I recently attended Feast Wilmington in North Carolina where 25 food and beverage vendors set up booths so that patrons can sample their menus.

What drew you to Magellan?

I was drawn to Magellan for its commitment to give back by granting employee volunteer hours and matching donations.  

What do you like best about your current position?

The best part of my position is the ability to help users when they have issues with the applications we support. I like the feeling of accomplishment you sense after you made someone’s day easier.  

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

The greatest advice I have ever received was from Robert Daily, a fellow analyst, who said, double checking never hurts. In IT, even if something small like a quote is missing from a program, it will fail.

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 Brennan Serrano, Idaho Behavioral Health Plan (IBHP) marketing communications manager.

Continue reading to learn more about Brennan:

Describe a typical workday in your life.
A typical workday starts with reviewing my Workzone planner, which helps me stay organized across projects and communications materials I’m actively working on, building or awaiting review. One of my favorite parts of my role is the variety—no two days look the same. Some days are focused on collaborating with internal teams to develop and guide materials through the full review process. Other days, I’m planning or attending community events and conferences, where I share information and resources about Magellan.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?
As a former college baseball player, my competitive spirit hasn’t gone anywhere. I spend much of my free time playing competitive softball, and one of the best parts is being on a co-ed team with my wife. It’s a great way for us to bond through sport and competition. Outside of that, I value time with my family. They’re everything to me.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about their quirky personality traits.
I have one pet, Oakley, who is my best friend. She’s a four-year-old great pyrenees/lab mix who is basically a giant teddy bear that can also be a little sassy and stubborn. I like to joke that she’s my “supervisor” during meetings. Without fail, whenever I start talking in a meeting, she finds her squeakiest toy and goes to work. The moment I stop talking, she stops, too. It’s as if to imply that since I’m not talking to her, I can’t talk to anyone.

What drew you to Magellan?
I’ve spent five of the past seven years working in the mental health field, which is something I’m deeply passionate about. That passion comes from both personal experience and the impact I’ve seen through my work. When I came across this opportunity at Magellan, I did my research and immediately felt a strong connection to the mission. I truly believe in the work being done to support Idahoans and I’m proud to be part of an organization making a meaningful difference.

What do you like best about your current position?
The variety in my day-to-day work is something I really value. It’s also pushed me to become a “Swiss Army knife” when it comes to understanding Magellan’s services and programs. In my role, it’s important to have a broad knowledge base so I can be a strong resource at community events, provider conferences and agency visits. I take pride in being flexible, adapting quickly and anticipating needs before they arise, whether in meetings or out in the field.

What is your biggest strength?
My biggest strength is taking complex healthcare information, understanding what each audience needs and turning it into clear, structured communication that helps people take the right action the first time.

I also take pride in being reliable and delivering high-quality work. A softball teammate once told me that when a pop fly goes up in the outfield toward me, he starts walking off the field because he trusts I’ll make the catch. That’s the same level of trust I aim to build in my work. When something is handed to me, my team knows it will get done, and it will get done right. I’m not perfect, but I approach my work with a growth mindset and use every challenge as an opportunity to learn and continuously improve.