News Releases

The Center for Health Affairs Announces New Senior Leadership

Reflecting its mission to serve the community and foster a positive, inclusive and dynamic work culture, The Center for Health Affairs is announcing new additions to its senior leadership team and a new role for a long-time leader within the organization.

Lesley Forneris, who has been a cornerstone of the organization for 16 years, has been named vice president, talent and organizational excellence. Having most recently served as people officer, Forneris has guided The Center and its subsidiary CHAMPS on its diversity, equity, inclusion and bellowing (DEIB) journey; led human resources (HR) operations; and focused on nurturing and leading a positive organizational culture. Her efforts have earned the organization multiple top workplace awards, enabling The Center and CHAMPS to attract and retain top talent. In her new role, Forneris will oversee human resources, marketing, operations and administrative support.

The Center and CHAMPS have also welcomed two new members to its senior leadership team. Kim Byas, Sr., PhD, MPH, FACHE, who has been leading the Social Determinants of Health Innovation Hub (SDoH Hub) for the last two years in a consultant role, has been named vice president, community engagement and impact. This new role is pivotal for The Center, focusing on growing resources and exponentially impacting community-focused work. Byas will drive new revenue streams, build robust partnerships locally and globally, foster leadership development, and advance social justice while eliminating structural racism.

Rounding out The Center’s senior leadership team is Stacy Feiner, PsyD, serving as performance psychologist and principal of the Sixth Level Collaborative. Feiner’s role is crucial in cultivating a healthy, high-performing organization around Sixth Level principles. She will partner with stakeholders across the organization to foster an intrinsically rewarding environment to enhance individual and collective success.

Finally, Jodi Mitchell has been named senior director, government relations and policy. Mitchell joined the community and member programming team at The Center in late 2023 and has been selected to guide the development and execution of strategic government relations and policy initiatives. Working closely with member organizations, she will enhance The Center’s ability to inform public policy and maintain productive relationships with government authorities at all levels. This position plays a crucial role in navigating complex legislative environments and ensuring that the interests of The Center’s membership are effectively represented.

“Together, these changes reflect our commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and dynamic work culture,” said Brian Lane, president and CEO of The Center for Health Affairs and CHAMPS. “We are dedicated to uplifting every member of our team and our community, driving meaningful impact, and advancing our mission.”