Welcome to the First Illinois Chapter HFMA Website!

         As we enter the 60^th anniversary of the founding of the First Illinois Chapter HFMA, (We were the First chapter organized in HFMA, that’s why we are called the First Illinois Chapter) Robert Broadway, our National President has picked an appropriate theme for the year.  Making connections is as important as ever in this fast paced world of healthcare, where we’ve seen jobs disappear (even in Finance), mergers and acquisitions constantly in the news(even in hospitals), and whole market places disappear (variable rate securities auctions).

         In times like these it is imperative to one’s career to network with peers, staying connected and educated on current issues in the industry. The Officers and Board of the First Illinois Chapter are dedicating this year to providing the membership with quality education and valuable networking opportunities to further their careers. We are constantly trying to improve the quality of our programs and are planning several new ventures this year. On October 30 we are hosting a joint education program and vendor fair with MCHC at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. We are planning some other exciting changes in response to member feedback. The chapter also hopes to expand free webinars to add value to your membership and expand educational opportunities at a time when hospital and personal budgets are being stretched very thin.

         Volunteering is a great way to make connections. We have many chapter committees that are always looking for volunteers to help out. Volunteering is a wonderful way to make new friends and network with peers. The relationships established can last a lifetime. The value of being able to pick up the phone or email peers with a question is priceless. The help one can give and receive from peers in job placement is beyond priceless, for both the giver and receiver.

         Get certified! Certification is a great way to stay current and also further your career. The education and networking helps you stay current. Having the CHFP or FHFMA initials after your name are essential if you aspire to a Senior Executive Position in the Chicago marketplace. These initials say something about the work ethic and leadership capabilities of the candidate when evaluating candidates.

         Cathy Jacobson, FHFMA, CPA is President-Elect of HFMA this year, soon to be National President. The Chapter is proud to have one of its own as a National Officer. Please congratulate Cathy when you see her and pledge to give her all the support you can these next two years!

         ANI - Our Annual National Institute is in Las Vegas this year.  Not everything that happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. At least not with the educational opportunities available at ANI on June 23-26.  Do go. Do bring back more than poker chips.

         Make a pledge to make some new connections and renew some old connections this year!

Guy R. Alton, FHFMA, CPA
2008 – 2009 Chapter President