Student Testimonials
Pinelopi Xenoudi
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Pinelopi Xenoudi, DDS, MS
Associate Dean of Admissions, Student Affairs & DEI
Professor
Diplomate, American Board of Periodontology
California Northstate University
1st Year MHA Student
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CNU MHA is the ideal program for those either already involved with or interested in healthcare. The comprehensive curriculum gives the students the opportunity to understand how every aspect of an organization works and how newer technologies (ie A.I.) can be utilized in the overall decision making process. What I personally find very helpful, is the fact that the knowledge gained from each class, is directly applicable to my daily work and this has already had a positive impact in my career and future opportunities.
Husna Tayyb Shaik
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Husna Tayyab Shaik
MHA Alumnus, Dentist, Harvard Medical Postgraduate Student
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I was looking to pursue an advanced degree to enhance my knowledge and skill while also giving me the opportunity to have an inside view of the healthcare system when I came across the CNU’s MHA program. The timing of the launch, the structure, and the pace of the program were just right. This program gave me an overall view of not only the healthcare system in the United States but also how the system is interrelated globally which you seldom get in any other program.
The faculty is one of the best across the country and hold a par excellent knowledge base and experience in the United States Healthcare System with global exposure. Peer learning with fellow cohort members while collaborating to work as teams on various projects together brought in their unique experiences from various backgrounds.
As a dentist, I feel this program polished my leadership qualities and prepared me to lead with confidence. From understanding my leadership style, executive decision-making, legal footwork, and policymaking to the numbers on my balance sheet, and marketing in the healthcare space, this program covered it all. The program also helped with my critical thinking and strategic planning skills, and my ability to integrate data, to develop and implement innovative solutions. This has been a valuable step forward in my journey toward providing better access and quality healthcare for our community.
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Olutola Akande
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Olutola Akande, MPH, UC Davis
2nd Year MHA Student, MD Candidate
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I joined the MHA program at CNU because I wanted to acquire the skills needed to make positive changes in the healthcare delivery system. The MHA program has provided me with the knowledge and skills necessary to strategically identify and propose solutions to challenges in healthcare organizations and in the healthcare system at large. The professors are knowledgeable and supportive, and the curriculum is engaging. Overall, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this program.
Tristan Moore
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Project Engineer, Kaiser Permanente (CPFC)
MHA Alumnus, DBA Candidate
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Thus far my MHA program has been an enlightening experience. I started the program with a minima/ healthcare background and within the first 5 weeks, Dr. Heinert effectively constructed a foundation for what Healthcare entails.
California Northstate MHA programs staff and faculty are genuinely there for the students. The curriculum is geared to both challenge and support the student during their academic journey.
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Cassandra Schlosser-Jaime
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Facilities/Plant Operations Director, Dignity Health
Administrative Fellow 2023- CommonSpirit Health
MHA Alumna
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When I came across this program, I was actually enrolled in a fully online MBA program. After learning more about this program, I appreciated many facts about it; there are in-person classes, many of the professors work and live in the greater Sacramento/Northern California area, where the program is located. I am born and raised in Sacramento and I currently have plans to continue working in the greater Sacramento area and giving back to this community. They also have 3 great concentrations. It was hard to choose only one concentration as I think they all add great educational value.
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My experience with CNU's MHA program has been wonderful. All of the professors are truly passionate about what they teach and really want the best outcome and educational takeaway for their students. The classes dive into healthcare and present real-life situations, not only from case studies but also from the professors’ experiences and expertise. The professors and my classmates have become a lifetime network.
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I am a mom, wife, work full time and this program is manageable in conjunction with all of my other responsibilities. Classes are every other week in person on Friday nights and Saturdays. I currently work as a leader in healthcare, and I have been able to directly apply some of my learnings into my work. These are also all the reasons why I have enjoyed this program. It’s been a much better experience than the online program I was previously in.
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Administrator, Sweetwater Care
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The reason I chose California Northstate University’s Master of Healthcare Administration Program was that this is the only school in California that offers a hybrid program with the best faculty. This program offers a concentration in Leadership, Service Excellence, and A.I. which is geared towards the healthcare of the present and future. This is the only school in Northern California that offers a MHA program!
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What I love most about the program is the faculty. They bring so much of their own knowledge and experiences to the table that it is very hard to get anywhere else. Many of the faculty, if not all, are all successful in their own fields and express their own insights that I value immensely. These connections will be life lasting and has already opened many doors to new opportunities.
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If someone is interested in this journey of making an impact in the healthcare field but not wanting to go the traditional route, I encourage them to attend the open houses that CNU has regarding the MHA programs. There, one can get to know the faculty and build connections to clarify anything questions one may have. The best piece of advice I can give is to just start! Start by taking a small step and together these small steps will accumulate to something beautiful!
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Denisha Mani
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MHA class of 2025,
CNU PharmD candidate
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What I’ve enjoyed most about the Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program is learning from such knowledgeable professors, they make complex topics easy to understand and really engaging. The program has helped me grow my skills and advance my career, giving me the education and confidence I need to take on new challenges in healthcare.
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Adilene Aguilar
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MHA class of 2025,
PharmD Candidate, 2026
California Northstate University, College of Pharmacy
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Participating in the MHA program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic journey. The curriculum not only strengthened my understanding of healthcare systems and leadership, but also allowed me to apply practical strategies to improve patient safety and operational efficiency. Through projects, discussions, and collaboration with diverse peers, I’ve gained a broader perspective on how administrative decisions impact patient outcomes. This program has truly helped me grow as both a clinician and a future healthcare leader. I highly encourage other students to participate, it’s an invaluable opportunity to expand your skills, network, and confidence in shaping the future of healthcare.
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Nancy Lopez
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​​MHA class of 2025,
1. Why did you choose to go back to school?
I chose to return to school because I was ready to take the next step in my
professional journey. I wanted to deepen my understanding of healthcare leadership
and gain the tools necessary to make a lasting impact, both within healthcare and in
broader organizational settings. Enrolling in an MHA program felt like the right move
to align my practical experience with strategic and high-level decision-making
capabilities.
2. What made you choose California Northstate University’s Master of
Healthcare Administration Program and why?
California Northstate University stood out to me for several key reasons: the
program’s flexibility, academic rigor, and small, collaborative class sizes. The hybrid
format allowed me to maintain my full-time leadership role while furthering my
education. Beyond the structure, what truly set CNU apart was the faculty. Being
taught by experienced industry professionals provided real-world insight, and the
one-on-one mentorship I received was something few larger programs can offer. It
felt like having a team of executive coaches invested in my success.
3. Please describe your experience with the California Northstate University
Master of Healthcare Administration Program. How has this experience added
value to your life?
My experience with the MHA program has been transformative, both professionally
and personally. The program not only expanded my knowledge but also helped me
build a strong network of mentors and peers who continue to be valuable resources.
Even the long commutes to campus became moments of reflection and preparation
that contributed to my growth. The program challenged me in the best ways, and I
carry those lessons with me every day.
4. What do you love most about the program?
What I appreciate most about the MHA program is the intentional balance it offers.
The flexible schedule enabled me to manage work, school, and personal
responsibilities without compromising any of them. But beyond logistics, I truly
valued the collaborative culture fostered by the faculty. Professors were not just
instructors; they were mentors who encouraged dialogue, critical thinking, and
meaningful partnerships among students.
5. How would you engage someone new to start this journey for themselves?
If someone is considering this path, I’d recommend taking the first step by visiting
CNU. Attend an open house, speak with alumni, or connect with faculty. Warmth
and support from the academic team are genuine, and you’ll quickly see that they’re
fully invested in each student’s success. It’s more than just a program; it’s a
community that empowers you to grow into the leader you aspire to be.​
