From science labs to healthcare system president, biology alum credits a supportive start

When Dr. Stefanie Gefroh Ellison thinks back on her time at Minnesota State Moorhead, one word comes to mind: supportive.

Stefanie graduated in 1996 with a bachelor's degree in biology and is now the President of West Market Essentia Health.

"The professors I had really fostered my educational experience, not just in the courses, but the entirety of it," Stefanie says. "It was not just about doing well in a class, but about the professors being engaged in your career path and planning well beyond graduation. The biology department had conversations to make sure that you felt prepared for whatever path you chose, and it helped make sure that you went in the right direction."

BS or BA in Biology

She recalls her experience at Moorhead as always being forward-thinking. Faculty frequently checked in with students concerning their career goals and made sure they felt prepared for the professional paths ahead.

"I appreciated that I left Moorhead with a well-rounded view," she said. "Some of my most memorable classes were outside of my major. I never questioned my decision to go to Moorhead."

Stefanie spent much of her time at Moorhead working in one of the campus animal labs, learning about the extensive work that goes into research and science. Working closely with faculty and lab directors also connected her with scientists outside the university and opened doors to research beyond the university.

"I got incredible experience working in the lab," she said. "I had a lot of oversight, which is exactly what you want. I was able to try things and learn, while having someone supporting me and making sure they are there to help if you need to course correct."

While Stefanie's lab work provided her valuable professional experience, her approach to leadership was shaped through her time at West Market Essentia Health.

One of the biggest risks of her career came when she was splitting her time between patient care and leadership.

"The next step in my career was twofold," she says. "I had to consider whether I wanted to further my business acumen and get my master's in business or my master's in health-care administration. With that decision, it would pull me away from clinical work."

Stefanie chose to pursue leadership development, a decision she calls one of the most rewarding of her career.

The biggest lesson Stefanie learned while being a leader is that leadership requires accountability.

"I didn't want to be the kind of leader that dumped my problems on somebody else," she said. "If you're not at the table being part of the solution and giving input, then something is going to be decided for you."

 Recognizing that she is a part of the administration, Stefanie learned to be collaborative and to overcome barriers while being a part of the solution.

 Her work for West Market Essentia Health extends beyond the hospital into the community of the Fargo-Moorhead area.

Stefanie explains that they maintain a great relationship with West Fargo Public Schools to educate students on basic life support and nutrition.

Recently, they did an economic development study concerning the impact that West Market Essentia Health has for jobs and services brought to communities. "We do a community health needs assessment for all communities we serve, so we can understand what the critical aspects are that they want us to invest in," she says.

Looking back at Stefanie's education at Moorhead, she sees a clear connection to the leader she is today with the leadership exemplified in the education she received.

She will share that wisdom at Minnesota State Moorhead's first-ever graduate student only commencement ceremony.