By Twanisha Parnell, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer
I joined the Center for Improving Value in Health Care one year ago following decades working for nonprofits in education, youth services, and affordable program enriched housing. I had very limited health care experience and honestly didn’t quite know what I was getting into.
Working on the CIVHC team has changed how I see Colorado’s health care system. Now when I pass hospitals and clinics, I feel a deeper connection. I understand more clearly how my own health care claims, in combination with those of others across the state, can help fuel improvements in the system, and that’s incredibly powerful.
My role at CIVHC goes beyond finance and administration; it’s about making sure that everything we do supports our mission to improve health care in Colorado. Each day, I strive to create systems that allow our staff, our partners, and our Board to focus on what they do best. It’s extremely fulfilling to know that my work helps drive real change and improve lives—both within our organization and across the state and nation. That is one of the things that keeps me going day after day—the opportunity to serve.
One of the most eye-opening aspects of this year has been discovering how remarkably intelligent and collaborative every department at CIVHC is. This has made my work both enjoyable and fulfilling—though, admittedly, I’m still learning to navigate all the acronyms! Nonetheless, I’ve found that being part of this team has allowed me to lead confidently, knowing that we’re all working toward the same goal.
Business team working on laptop, while sitting at office. Business people.
A particularly rewarding experience this year has been making CIVHC’s financial story more accessible—not just for partners or the Board of Directors, but for the entire organization. When I began presenting CIVHC’s financial narrative clearly and directly, it helped demystify the budget for everyone. We now have a shared understanding of where funds are coming from, how they are being allocated, and what that means for the organization moving forward.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue building out CIVHC’s financial strategy. It’s about more than numbers; it’s about creating a transparent, accessible process that enables everyone to contribute meaningfully. With new voices—both within our team and on the Board—our financial growth and ability to serve our partners and communities will continue to expand.
Throughout my career, my focus has always been on building stronger, more transparent organizations, and CIVHC is no different. I see the company as a plant. In this metaphor, the staff are the sunlight, providing energy and focus, while our partners and Board help water the plant to keep it thriving as we nurture its growth. Together, we’re all planting the seeds for long-term impact, driving real change in the health care system, and making a lasting difference for all Coloradans.