Leadership in medical imaging goes beyond managing workflows; it’s about inspiring teams, driving innovation, and navigating the complexities of healthcare with confidence.

The AHRA Leaders of Choice program, a 12-month leadership development experience sponsored by United Imaging and facilitated by Traction Business Development, is designed to do just that. Through immersive learning and collaboration, senior imaging professionals strengthen their business acumen, refine strategic thinking, and build a network of peers who share their commitment to excellence.

We spoke with members of the 2024-2025 cohort to learn how the program shaped their leadership journey, the lessons they’ll carry forward, and why this experience is worth pursuing.

A Year of Growth and Connection

For many participants, the program was transformative. Teresa Byrd, radiology supervisor at Lexington Medical Center, described it as “a new perspective on leadership,” emphasizing that discomfort often signals growth. “Leadership isn’t meant to be easy,” she said. “If it were, everyone would do it.”

Others echoed the theme of personal and professional evolution. Melissa Ramos, CRA, assistant radiology director at Shannon Clinic, called the experience a game-changer, noting that her capstone project earned recognition within her organization and sparked noticeable growth in her leadership approach.

For Lisa Walling, CRA, director of radiology at Oklahoma City Indian Clinic, the program strengthened her confidence and expanded her leadership toolkit. “I have a deeper understanding of how to build high-performing teams, create a culture of accountability, and drive meaningful change in my organization,” she said.

Beyond individual growth, the sense of community among the cohort was clear. Sarah Franks, CRA, radiology director at Baylor Scott & White Health, highlighted the value of connecting with peers nationwide. “Through shared knowledge and collaboration I’ve not only grown professionally but also developed a strong network of trusted colleagues and friends,” she said. “These relationships have enriched my perspective and strengthened my ability to lead with greater insight and confidence.”

Michelle Nocera, CRA, director of radiology at University Hospitals, agreed, calling the program a true privilege that provided a safe space to share ideas and seek advice. For Bonnie Hellard, CRA, director of imaging at Baptist Medical Center and Wolfson Children's Hospital, these conversations refined her professional focus and increased her visibility within her organization.

Kevin Larsen, medical imaging manager at Mammoth Hospital, pointed to the commonality medical imaging leaders share. “The Leaders of Choice program was an excellent reminder that managers are dealing with the same issues, whether you are working at a huge institution or a small rural hospital. By sharing our experiences with each other, we are able to inspire, motivate, and solve issues,” he said.

Lessons That Last a Lifetime

Leaders of Choice goes beyond skill building and reshapes how participants think about leadership. Several leaders emphasized the power of presence. “Meaningful leadership isn’t about always having the answers — it’s about showing up, listening deeply, and making a genuine impact on those around us,” said Franks. Chris Mitchell, CRA, added that being present applies at work and at home, citing the need to practice the work-life balance that imaging leaders preach.

Authenticity and vulnerability emerged as recurring themes. Nocera shared, “By being open to feedback, willing to listen, and sharing honestly, I’ve found that it strengthens trust and collaboration,” she said. Walling reinforced this idea, noting that empowering teams and fostering trust leads to greater success.

Other lessons focused on resilience and accountability. “We need to keep fighting the good fight for excellence in patient care, and doing things the right way, even if they are harder or take more work,” Larsen said. “We need to continue to hold employees accountable to expectations to have a healthy department.”

Ramos offered a practical insight: “As leaders, we often think we have to solve the issues and have the solutions. We don’t! We just need to know how to lead the teams into finding it.”

Leaning Into the Challenge

As exemplified by this Leaders of Choice cohort, growth happens when we lean into challenge and community. “Filling out the application and believing in your potential is the first, but hardest, step,” said Hellard. “Once you are in the program, you will be so energized by the colleagues surrounding you that you will step up to a level you may not have thought you were capable of.”

Whether you’re guiding a team through change or striving to grow personally, the message is clear: invest in yourself, stay present, and lead with authenticity. Leadership isn’t easy, but as this cohort proves, it’s worth every step.

Learn more about the AHRA Leaders of Choice Program here.