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 Jennifer Friedrich, vice president, federal program operations, military counseling division, federal market. Jennifer has been with Magellan since 2012.

Continue reading to learn more about Jennifer:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

My workday has a high operational tempo and is centered on maintaining operational excellence within the military counseling division, a team of over 1,750 associates including project management staff, Military & Family Life counselors and personal financial counselors. I focus on supporting our government customer, our employees and the organization as a whole by balancing priorities, addressing emerging needs and ensuring our teams have the guidance and resources they need to succeed. Each day requires adaptability, collaboration and a steady focus on delivering high-quality outcomes in support of the military counseling mission.

What is your biggest strength?

My greatest strength is my ability to lead through a human-centered, strength-based approach. My leadership, counseling and teaching philosophies naturally intersect and are grounded in humanistic psychology. I focus on identifying and amplifying each individual’s strengths and intentionally aligning them with meaningful growth opportunities. This approach builds trust, enhances intrinsic motivation and supports employee wellbeing and confidence, resulting in more engaged, capable and resilient teams.

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

I excel in supporting my teams by modeling and encouraging balance, reflection and self-care as essential components of sustained performance. Magellan has afforded me the ability to maintain work-life balance, which enables me to remain focused, present and mission-driven. I translate this into my leadership by advising employees to intentionally set aside time each day to pause, evaluate and invest in themselves. I recognize that personal wellbeing directly supports effectiveness, engagement, and long-term success.

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

Traveling is my favorite way to spend time off. I enjoy exploring new geographic locations, immersing myself in different cultures and experiencing the food and traditions that make each place unique. Travel allows me to recharge, broaden my perspective and return with renewed energy and curiosity that carries over into my work and daily life.

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

The best career advice I have learned through experience is to lead and work with purpose. Magellan has compassionately pushed my leadership growth edge by fostering a thriving, supportive environment that encourages reflection and development. I advise employees to explore their inner “why” and pursue opportunities that align with their values and sense of purpose. When individuals are engaged in meaningful work, they become more effective, connected and resilient, which are invaluable benefits that extend both inside and outside the workplace.

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

I have four pets: Oliver, Sage, Teddy and Poppy, and each has a wonderfully unique personality! Oliver is the loyal protector of the group, always keeping a watchful eye on everyone. Sage oversees all activity like a wise manager, making sure nothing goes unnoticed. Teddy truly lives up to her name. She’s our cuddly teddy bear and resident comforter. Poppy is a nonstop bouncing ball of energy who keeps us on our toes.

Together, they bring an incredible amount of joy and unconditional love to our home.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Mary Connole, senior paralegal, regulatory. Mary has been with Magellan since 1992.

Continue reading to learn more about Mary:

What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

I have a few things I rotate on different weekends that include going to our local ceramic shop to work on a current project, visiting with my friends, going golfing with my husband or side-by-side (UTV) rides. Pretty much anything outside.

What’s your favorite way to use your PTO?

My husband and I try to go on a cruise every year with my cousin, his wife and our granddaughter. We also like to go camping around southern Nevada with our Shi Tzu Dotty and my cousins who also live nearby. We also enjoy using the time off to plan reunions and spending time with good friends and family.

What is the furthest place you’ve traveled (or would like to travel to one day)?

The furthest place I have traveled to is the Southern Caribbean. My bucket list destination is to go on a Panama Canal Cruise and also cruises to Australia and South Pacific Islands after retirement. Anywhere with a beach!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

The best piece of advice I have received is that change is inevitable and is going to happen whether you are ready and agree with the change or not. Try to just accept it and move on. You will never be given any more than you can handle.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about what quirky personality traits your animals have!

We have one dog named Dotty. She is an 11-year-old Shi Tzu. She is an older dog but still acts like a puppy sometimes. She is also quite the diva! She has been known to interrupt a Teams call to bark at me to let me know I have been sitting at my desk for too long and need to get up and move. She also may be just a little spoiled!

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Micaela Caulkins, manager of human resources service operations. Micaela has been with Magellan since 2018.

Continue reading to learn more about Micaela:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

My day centers around leading the HR Resource Team, which plays a key role in supporting employees by addressing their inquiries through VERN. I collaborate cross-functionally to ensure employee needs are met efficiently and effectively. In addition, I’m involved in process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the employee experience and optimizing HR systems. I also support HR related customer and regulatory body audits, manage regulatory reporting requirements and coordinate with Centene contacts on certain non-benefits related insurance matters. The variety and dynamic nature of this role keeps every day engaging and that is one of the aspects I enjoy most.

What is the farthest place you’ve traveled (or would like to travel to one day)?

My fiancé and I love to travel and experience different cultures. The farthest place I have traveled so far is southern Italy, which was beautiful to visit in early fall. One day, I hope to explore New Zealand especially for the hiking and its incredible natural scenery.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

The best piece of advice I received is that growth happens outside of your comfort zone. It is something I remind myself of often whether I’m taking on a new project at work or trying something new in my personal life. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.

What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

I love spending as much time as possible outdoors on the weekends. My ideal weekend starts with coffee from one of my favorite local spots, followed by hiking, a beach walk, a tennis match or quality time with family and friends.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about what quirky personality traits your animals have!

I have a labrador retriever named Finn, and he has such a fun-loving personality. He’s completely obsessed with soccer balls, if he sees one he’ll almost always steal it and sprint away like it’s his greatest prize. Finn loves meeting new people and dogs, and when he’s excited, he gets the zoomies and does tight little circles at top speed. Every so often, he’ll make a cameo in the background of a Teams call.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Kimberly Elias, sales executive for the employer market. Kimberly has been with Magellan since 2022.

Continue reading to learn more about Kimberly:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

A typical workday involves connecting with employers and insurance brokers in the Southeast and Midwest markets and sharing how Magellan can provide them with the best and most effective wellbeing solutions for their employees and their organization. My days involve extensive collaboration, outreach to decision-makers, education and navigating the complex nuances that come along with forging meaningful partnerships. I love strategizing and collaborating with my Magellan business partners and creating win-win situations for Magellan and our clients.

Do you have a favorite recipe you love to make (or have made for you)?

Coconut curry chicken is my go-to for some homemade comfort food. The secret ingredient is the right amount of garam masala and lemongrass.

In one word, how would your family and friends describe you?

Difference maker.

Who (dead or alive) inspires you and why?

My maternal grandparents will always be my biggest inspiration and my heroes in life. They were married for over 56 years and provided me with a very loving and stable childhood. They modeled unconditional love and showed me that no matter where you come from or what your circumstances are, you can create and achieve the life you desire. My pop pop was a country boy from Oklahoma who served his country and fought in World War II and the Korean war. My grandmother was an immigrant from Germany. They worked hard and loved their family. They taught me that what matters most in life are God, love, family, laughter and a home-cooked meal!

What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

You will typically find me in the mountains on my mountain bike or hiking. I also volunteer as an equine therapy horse lead, which involves providing care to 16 horses and helping those with physical and mental health challenges. After a long day on the trail or on the ranch, you will find me in the kitchen cooking and enjoying great conversation with my adult kids.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Stacy Stoner, supervisor, corporate travel program. Stacy has been with Magellan for over 23 years!

Continue reading to learn more about Stacy:

Describe a typical workday in your life. 

There isn’t a typical day in managing travel. Every day is managing a new challenge such as weather, hotel issues, flight cancellations or all four tires being stolen from a rental car (true story). I work with CWT and our travelers to ensure policies are followed. Reports are sent to the executive leadership team showing travel spends and trends. In addition, I manage the gift card program and oversee the corporate card program for Magellan.

What are you currently reading?

I’m an avid reader and usually have 20 books on my TBR (to be read) and hold list for my kindle at any given time. Two of my favorite books are The Nightingale and The Glass Castle.

What’s your favorite way to use your PTO? 

I love to spend time with my granddaughter, Madeline, and my grandsons, Sawyer & Graham, in Arizona.

What is the farthest place you’ve traveled (or would like to travel to one day)? 

I previously worked as a flight attendant and both my parents also worked for airlines, so I’ve traveled to a lot of fun places. The top of my bucket list currently is Banff, Canada.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about what quirky personality traits your animals have! 

I have a cat, Khaki, that I adopted in 2020. He loves to sit on my laptop and attend Zoom calls with me!

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Dana Galbreath, senior director, global compliance and ethics, corporate compliance. Dana has been with Magellan since July 2001.

Continue reading to learn more about Dana:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

My role in corporate compliance is within the corporate Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Office. In this role no two days are exactly the same, but they are all centered around one core focus: managing and assisting with maintaining HIPAA privacy compliance by ensuring our company stays compliant with the HIPAA Privacy Rule and state privacy laws. I work closely with our HIPAA Associate Counsel to manage a range of responsibilities under the direction of Magellan’s Chief Privacy Officer. This includes reviewing and updating our corporate HIPAA privacy policies; developing the privacy essentials training annually and for new hires, as well specialized trainings for specific groups that handle more sensitive information or interface directly with members; developing privacy awareness campaigns; direct auditing and monitoring for Magellan’s non-federal business; and manage the accounting of disclosures process including unauthorized disclosures for the company. I also assist with answering day to day questions from internal teams by providing guidance on navigating the complexities of HIPAA privacy. I also support broader compliance efforts such as managing issues reported through our compliance hotline and leading investigations when needed and managing any special projects as defined by the Chief Privacy Officer and/or Deputy Privacy Officer.

What are you currently reading?

I read a new book every month! I missed my book club so much when I moved from Maryland to Georgia, so I started a book club and we’ve been meeting and reading together since 2007. The next book on the list is Lovely One by Ketanji Brown Jackson.

In one word, how would your family and friends describe you?

Tenacious. I hold on tight to my goals both personally and professionally and I don’t give up easily – even when things get tough, I’m not easily discouraged.

What is the furthest place you’ve traveled to (or would like to one day)?

I’ve been blessed to visit several countries like Spain, England, France, Mexico and Belize. My son is currently teaching in South Korea, and the goal is to visit him this year. This will be my furthest trip.

Who (dead or alive) inspires you and why?

It’s hard to choose just one person who inspires me the most, especially when I stand on the shoulders of so many who have shaped and guided me. However, if I had to select one it would be my late grandmother. She is my North Star. She laid the foundation for who I am today by instilling in me a deep sense of faith, purpose, drive and ambition. At the same time, she kept me grounded by reminding me of the importance of humility, grace and integrity. Her strength and wisdom continue to guide me, and I strive every day to live in a way that honors her legacy and reflects the values she passed down.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Dr. Jamie Hanna, national senior medical director, children’s behavioral health. Dr. Hanna has been with Magellan since December 2020.

Continue reading to learn more about Dr. Hanna:

Do you have any secret talents/ something you’re very good at that would surprise others?

I played Division I soccer at the University of Alabama. I’m also pretty good at solving a Rubik’s cube.

What are you currently binge watching? Do you have a comfort show/ movie that you love to rewatch?

My favorite movies will always be the original Star Wars trilogy. The TV show I’ve enjoyed the most recently is Ted Lasso. Today, you’ll find me binge watching World War II documentaries and any other historical series I can find.

Do you have a favorite recipe you love to make (or have made for you)?

My favorite meal is Thanksgiving dinner. I love to be with family and friends and my mom’s gravy is the best. Making sure the cranberry sauce stays in the perfect shape of a can is my primary responsibility. It’s the one-time leftovers are better than the original meal.

What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

I love to spend time with my family on the weekends and am usually at my son’s soccer and baseball tournaments.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

To not let perfect be the enemy of good.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about what quirky personality traits your animals have!

We have four cats who are a big part of our family. Make Make spends most of his time chasing images on the television. Ceres is sweet and spends most of her time on my lap. Fox loves to play fetch and follows me wherever I go. Blue Star loves to take walks with my son, Jackson, in her stroller.

Healthcare Human Resources (HR) Professionals Week, celebrated from March 10-14, is a time to recognize the vital role that human resources professionals play in the healthcare industry. These dedicated individuals ensure that healthcare organizations are staffed with skilled professionals, maintain employee well-being and uphold policies that create a positive work environment. This week, we acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and the essential contributions made by our HR employees.

• Mike Francisco, human resources business consultant, joined Magellan Federal in May 2013.
• Lisa Clarke, workday HR technologist, with Magellan since February 2020.
• Nicole McLain, director of talent acquisition at Magellan since September 2010.

Continue reading to learn more from Mike, Lisa and Nicole on their experiences as a healthcare HR professional:

Why did you want to pursue healthcare HR and what is the most rewarding aspect of working in this field?

Mike: I have been working in the federal contracting space for 30 years and until 2013, most of my work was in support of staff specializing in systems and equipment such as sensors, receivers, transmitters, logistics and intelligence support. As a veteran, supporting health related programs for the military service members and their families was a natural next step.

Lisa: My passion is to help employees find information and complete processes in the most efficient manner. Working in human resources has allowed me to do that. In my current position, supporting system processes, researching questions, creating reports that help provide insight and more are all very rewarding.

Nicole: I pursued a career in talent acquisition over 20 years ago because I found it to be a challenging yet fulfilling field. Specifically in healthcare because I need to be passionate about the industry and company that I work for to recruit people into it. I really enjoy all aspects of talent acquisition and how it has a direct impact on people’s lives. It’s extremely rewarding to help someone find their dream job!

What are some challenges you face in this profession and how do you overcome them?

Mike: Many of our employees are former military or spouses of military members and are deeply integrated into the military community. It’s only natural that they see themselves as working for the military. The best way to maintain employee engagement with Magellan is by frequent communication. Naturally, that starts with their supervisors, and as a human resource business consultant I work to help facilitate those communications. I also try to be readily available to employees in the field. Despite the push towards staff automation and self-service, people just want to talk to someone, and it is incumbent on all of us to make that effort.

Lisa: I would call them opportunities, not challenges! As we all know things change, and with these changes, our system workflows, process and data need to be updated. These changes can only be overcome by the collaboration of the amazing group of people within Magellan HR! I am so fortunate to be part of this team.

Nicole: I feel the biggest challenge in talent acquisition is finding qualified candidates that have the right skills, education and experience and that are a cultural fit within the organization, and most times I must find the right candidate on a tight deadline. I try and overcome this by leveraging employee referrals and using social media job boards, to source and expand the pool of candidates.

Is there anything you’d like to highlight about working in healthcare HR?

Mike: I can see that our team works hard to care for others. To avoid burnout, we need to do as much as possible to ensure that our employees have the necessary benefit information available to them. The online knowledge tool at Magellan has that information, and I can’t thank my fellow HR team enough for the work that has been put into creating a robust online library of resources.

Lisa: Employees working with customers here at Magellan have demanding jobs, it’s an honor and privilege to be able to support them in their HR needs.

Nicole: There is a preconceived notion out there about talent acquisition that anyone can recruit without having experience as a recruiter. While it might seem simple, there are a lot of nuances to the process. Talent acquisition professionals need strong interpersonal skills, empathy and an understanding of HR regulations, market trends and company culture. Additionally, the ability to negotiate offers, build relationships and manage multiple hiring processes requires specialized expertise.

What does National Healthcare HR Professionals week mean to you?

Mike: This week is designed to recognize HR professionals for their contributions to the industry. I’m happy to be part of a team of professionals doing what needs to be done to ensure that our clinical and non-clinical team received the support they need.

Lisa: It’s a chance for all of us to say, “thank you” and recognize those who work behind the scenes in all aspects of human resources.

Nicole: Healthcare HR Professionals Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the important role that HR professionals play in the industry. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge the unique challenges and impact HR professionals have in a field that directly influences people’s lives, health and wellbeing.

How does Magellan HR embrace a strengths-based culture?

Mike: Magellan fosters collaboration. Leaders make sure people have responsibilities based on their individual strengths and take the time to recognize their achievements.

Lisa: Magellan HR provides tools to help support an environment that focuses on employees’ natural talents and strengths through training, performance connection, internal career opportunities and peer to peer recognition opportunities like the High Five Friday!

Nicole: Magellan HR embraces a strengths-based culture by focusing on identifying, developing and leveraging the unique strengths of employees and understanding their talents and skills, which leads to more engaged, motivated and high-performing teams.