Lynard Gardner is ACHE’s 2025–2026 Stuart A. Wesbury Jr. Postgraduate Administrative Fellow. He graduated with his master’s degree in health administration from the Medical University of South Carolina and earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from Winthrop University. Get to know him in the Q&A below.
- Please share with us your background. How did you become interested in healthcare management?
My journey into healthcare management began during my time as a patient care technician at the Medical University of South Carolina, where I saw firsthand how both clinical and administrative teams shape the patient experience. I became fascinated by the systems ability to make quality care possible and realized I wanted to play a role in improving those systems.
I appreciated the opportunity to be able to support patients, especially those in underserved communities, by making the care I gave efficient, compassionate and effective. All the patients that I’ve had the pleasure of taking care of inspire me to pursue this career in healthcare management. Those many 12-hour day and night shifts alongside my care team members taught me the true importance of teamwork and collaboration in delivering excellent care.
- Why did you join ACHE, and how did you engage with the organization as a student?
I wanted to be part of a network of leaders dedicated to advancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes. As a student member, I engaged with ACHE through professional development opportunities, such as my local chapter’s mentoring program. I appreciated ACHE’s plethora of website resources such as the directory of administrative fellowships, the Career Resource Center and networking opportunities. These resources helped me connect my classroom learnings to real-world leadership practices and reaffirmed my passion for continuous growth.
- Describe the opportunities you have had as ACHE’s administrative fellow.
I’ve had the privilege of contributing to projects that strengthen the association’s impact on healthcare leaders nationwide. From supporting the review of education content for the Congress on Healthcare Leadership to leading a customer service optimization project, each experience has deepened my understanding how leadership, education and innovation intersect with one another. Working alongside various experienced professionals has given me an invaluable perspective and a clear vision of the leader I aspire to become.
- What are your career goals, and how will you stay involved in ACHE?
My long-term goal is to become a healthcare executive who drives operational excellence while advancing health equity across diverse communications. I plan to continue my involvement with ACHE by working toward earning my FACHE® credential, participating in more networking events and mentoring future healthcare leaders. ACHE has played a significant role in shaping my professional path, and I look forward to giving back by supporting others who share the same passion for meaningful change.
- How can Student Associates make the most of their ACHE membership?
By being proactive through attending events, networking with professionals and taking advantage of education opportunities. The earlier you begin engaging, the more value you’ll gain from mentorship and exposure to the industry. ACHE provides a wealth of resources, but it takes initiative to connect and ask questions! I highly suggest using the ACHE CareerEDGE® tool, as it helped me create an overall plan for my career along with discovering the type of leader I aim to be.
- What are your hobbies and interests?
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and exploring new restaurants. I also love watching sci-fi shows and movies.
- What are the opportunities you have had through the Stuart A. Wesbury Administrative Fellowship program?
I’ve gained hands-on association-level experience in multiple areas of healthcare leadership, from strategic project management to organizational development. This fellowship continues to provide exposure to various areas within the organization to help further my understanding. It has allowed me to stay connected with various leaders who are shaping and innovating the future of healthcare. The program has been instrumental in preparing me to lead with purpose!
- Who and what do you credit for your own professional growth?
I credit much of my professional growth to my time in the Master of Health Administration program at the Medical University of South Carolina. The program truly built my foundation from the ground up, allowing me to strengthen my skills and apply them in meaningful ways through various internship and project experiences.
Working alongside accomplished healthcare leaders within an academic medical center gave me valuable insight into the complexities of healthcare management. I am especially grateful to my program director and my South Carolina ACHE Chapter mentor, who continuously supported my development and provided guidance that shaped both my confidence and leadership style.
Finally, I credit my amazing mother for my professional growth as she has been a registered nurse for over 20 years and has provided me with great clinical and administrative guidance through my journey in the industry.