Doctor of Health Sciences Graduate is a Leader in the Field and a Pillar of the Community

When Gary Havican ’04 MBA, ’23 DHSc was a kid, he saw emergency medical services respond to a family member who needed clinical care. He was moved by how healthcare providers were able to help her, and he soon became intrigued. He, too, wanted to make an impact on people’s lives.

When he was in high school, Havican took the opportunity to join Allied Health and become an emergency medical technician. He wanted healthcare to be more than a passion – he also wanted it to be his future. Havican has gone on to excel, becoming a leader in the field of healthcare. He is now executive vice president and chief operating officer for Catholic Health Systems in New York.

A strong believer in the importance of lifelong learning and mentoring, Havican wanted to continue to make a meaningful difference in the field. He decided to continue his education as a member of the University’s Doctor of Health Sciences program.

“As I managed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, I began to think about my future and the ways in which I can grow as a person and a professional,” explains Havican. “I was honored to be accepted into the program alongside some incredible colleagues from various aspects of the healthcare community.”

‘Make a significant impact in the field’

Jill Moore, EdD, MHA, BSDH, RDH, the DHSc program director, calls Havican an “exemplary student.” She says his dedication to his coursework and research demonstrates his commitment to his field.

“Earning a doctorate degree clearly advances a person to the top of their field and will bring a surplus of career opportunities,” she said. “But when the doctorate degree is in healthcare, the commitment in the classroom is also a deep commitment to one’s community. Gary’s dedication to his education and profession, coupled with being a kind leader and mentor to those around him, will allow Gary to be the change agent that we need in the healthcare system.

“I have no doubt that Dr. Havican’s passion and dedication will continue to make a significant impact in the field of health sciences,” she continued. “I believe he will improve the lives of individuals in the communities he serves.”

‘One of the highest honors’

Havican continues to be an active member of the University community and to offer his support to current and future Chargers. A School of Health Sciences Advisory Board member, he has worked with the University’s paramedicine program. He also played a key role in helping the University acquire the “Simbulance” that is enabling students to gain hands-on experience.

“I feel grateful to be in the professional position that I am in, and I attribute much of my success to the lessons that I’ve learned as an EMT and a paramedic over the last 35 years,” he said. “I’m also grateful for my ability to influence the donation of a training vehicle to the EMS program to help students learn the important lifesaving skills taught to the students in these programs.”

“Dr. Havican has been very involved with the School of Health Sciences, serving on the Paramedicine Program Advisory Committee as one of the first graduates of our Doctor of Health Science Program and helping to procure a Simbulance for our students to have hands-on experience with using an ambulance,” said Betsy Francis-Connolly, Ph.D., dean of the School of Health Sciences. “I am grateful to Gary for all he has done to support the School of Health Sciences.”

Havican, who previously served as senior vice president of Hartford HealthCare and as president of its central region, was recognized by Hartford Business Journal as a member of its 2023 “Power 25 Health Care” cohort. The publication, which covers news and trends in the Hartford area’s business community, noted Havican’s leadership in shepherding MidState Medical Center’s expansion. It also highlighted his commitment to the community, including his service on the executive committee for New Britain Recovers, which supports those who are facing homelessness and addiction.

“I was very surprised yet humbled to be recognized on this list with so many incredible healthcare leaders throughout Connecticut,” said Havican. “It is absolutely one of the highest honors that I’ve achieved professionally in my career, and I am thankful.”

‘The University clearly cares about the students’ experience’

Havican continues to make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare. He’s grateful for the opportunities he’s had as a Charger, and he is proud to continue to offer his support to members of the University community – and beyond.

“I really valued my time at the University as a student in the MBA and DHSc programs,” he said. “The University clearly cares about the students’ experience and the high-quality education that each student receives. The University is impressive and continues to grow to meet the higher educational needs of the community."

“In his new role as chief operating officer, Gary will be able to leverage the skills honed during his doctoral studies in research, leadership, and communication to lead one of the largest health systems in the area,” added Karl Minges, Ph.D., MPH, an assistant professor in the University’s Department of Population Health and Leadership and chair of Havican’s doctoral thesis committee. “We are so thankful for Gary’s contributions to the University’s community, and we can’t wait to watch him succeed across Long Island Sound.”