This presentation will provide an overview of the Federal changes to Medicaid and SNAP, the impact of these changes in North Carolina, key decisions that the North Carolina General Assembly is facing, timelines for decisions, and actions League members can take in response to decisions that must be made.
Registrants are encouraged to bring their own lunch.
GUEST SPEAKERS:
Shadonna Headen, Senior Engagement Manager, Communications Team Division of Health Benefits, NC Medicaid North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
With over 15 years of experience in healthcare and public service, Shadonna Headen is dedicated to advancing equity by ensuring individuals and communities have access to the resources, education, and support they need to thrive.
She holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Management and brings extensive experience in communications, outreach, and program management. Shadonna has led key initiatives to expand Medicaid awareness and access across North Carolina, including efforts that connect justice-involved individuals, long-term care members, and community partners to critical services. Her work reflects a strong passion for bridging gaps in care and empowering individuals with the knowledge to make informed health decisions.
She is currently focused on expanding access to healthcare information and strengthening strategic partnerships with the provider community. Shadonna believes that to truly support individuals and families, we must wrap around them with resources, education, and care that address the whole person. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, singing, and volunteering in her community.
Rebecca Cerese, Senior Policy Advocate, Health Advocacy Project, North Carolina Justice Center
Rebecca is a social justice activist, award-winning documentary filmmaker and a passionate healthcare advocate. She is the Senior Health Policy Advocate at the NC Justice Center, working with coalition partners and community members around the state to promote better healthcare policies for all North Carolinians. In that role, Cerese partners with people who have been directly impacted by our dysfunctional healthcare system to amplify their stories and fight for policy changes.
She is also a proud founding member of the NC Medicare For All Coalition – a diverse coalition made up of 45 different organizations and individuals committed to fighting for a universal single-payer healthcare system that puts patients over profits.