Panel Discussion: Insights from High-Performing UKHC Leaders Driving Engagement & Excellence

What sets consistently high-performing leaders apart? Join us for a dynamic panel discussion featuring UK HealthCare leaders who have achieved outstanding employee engagement results year after year. These leaders will share real-world strategies, lessons learned, and practical tips for building trust, fostering team connection and sustaining performance in complex health care environments. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or an emerging one, you’ll gain valuable insights to inspire and elevate your own leadership practice.

Emily Woods, Enterprise Imaging Director
Brooke Denio, Ambulatory Clinical Operations Director
Emily Bugay, Clinical Nutrition Director
Barbara Mitchell, Patient Care Manager
Ryan Marler, Nurse Manager/Ambulatory
Jessica Wiard, Ambulatory Clinical Operations Director 

Moderated by Katie Hantle

Katie Hantle is the Engagement Manager in UK Human Resources, where she facilitates the engagement strategy for both UK HealthCare and the UK@Work campus community.

With over 15 years of experience in human resources, including 10+ years at the University of Kentucky, Katie has a strong passion for creating meaningful connections across diverse teams, advocating for employees, and bringing a unique blend of strategic thinking and people-centered insight to every initiative. She manages large-scale initiatives including enterprise engagement surveys, system-wide recognition programs and championing targeted support for leadership teams.

Previously, Katie served as Manager of Volunteer Services at UK HealthCare and co-led the implementation of UKHC’s DIReCT Values. Prior to UK, she worked in HR and recruitment across multiple states for a public accounting firm.

Katie holds a B.A. in Mass Communication from Campbell University in North Carolina and is pursuing a master’s in strategic human resource management & analytics at the University of Kentucky. Outside of work, Katie resides in Lexington, Kentucky and enjoys spending time with her husband, Nick, and their two children, Emily and HB.