Alumni Spotlight: Kalliope Vourakis (MPA-HPAM 2023)
Kalliope Vourakis (MPA-HPAM 2023), Project Manager, Northwell Health
As a Project Manager at Northwell Health, what are your key responsibilities, and how do they contribute to enhancing patient experience?
In my role at Northwell Health, I oversee a mix of administrative and operational responsibilities within the Neurology Department. That includes everything from staffing and finance to scheduling, billing, and making sure any day-to-day issues are resolved. I work closely with both our internal team and stakeholders to keep things running smoothly and to make sure our processes support high-quality care. I also take the lead on projects that focus on improving access and patient experience like recommending new medical equipment based on data or finding ways to reduce appointment wait times. All of this ties back to our department’s goal of providing care that’s not only excellent, but also accessible and patient-centered.
How do you approach strategic planning and project oversight in a fast-paced healthcare environment, and what challenges have you encountered?
In a fast-paced healthcare environment, I like to start each day with a plan. I usually think through staffing needs, urgent matters, and any pressing priorities before I even walk into the office. Once I’m in, I kick off the day with a quick huddle to align the team, share updates, and review patient volume expectations. As part of the leadership team, I also collaborate closely with my colleagues to make sure we're aligned on departmental goals. After those immediate needs are addressed, I shift my focus to project work which often involves collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to drive long-term improvements. Balancing real-time operations with ongoing initiatives can be challenging, but strong communication and teamwork make it manageable.
What course or experience from your time at Wagner has been the most helpful or inspiring in your work as a Project Manager?
Reflecting on my time at Wagner, I can honestly say that each course played a role in preparing me for the realities of healthcare management. The Health Services Management course taught me how to connect daily operations to broader strategic goals. The Financial Management courses sharpened my skills in budgeting, cost analysis, and using advanced techniques in Excel. The Human Resources course gave me practical strategies for managing diverse teams, and Health Emergency Management always reminds me to keep safety at the forefront of every decision. Leading Change provided the mindset and tools to navigate transitions with clarity and confidence. Combined with the guidance of incredible professors, these experiences have shaped the way I lead and problem-solve in my role today.
What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare project management or hospital administration?
Start by getting hands-on experience in any healthcare setting, even entry-level roles can teach you a lot and give you a solid foundation to grow from. Mastering the fundamentals early on will serve you well as your career develops. Keep investing in yourself, and keep applying to jobs, fellowships, internships, any opportunity that gives you exposure and helps you grow. Every stage of the journey matters, and taking the time to truly learn along the way will only make you stronger in the long run. Each experience brings something valuable, and the more you absorb now, the better equipped you’ll be as a leader later on. I know the search process can feel overwhelming at times, but stay persistent. Progress happens step by step. By staying adaptable and open, you'll evolve into the professional you aspire to be.