March 28, 2019
SIU’s Laura Ericksen wins 2019 Healthcare Management Award
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Laura Ericksen, a senior at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, is a 2019 winner of the Healthcare Management Award from Mid-American Healthcare Executives Forum.
Ericksen, of Woodstock, is a business management major with specialization in management of health-care enterprises.
Award recognizes accomplishments in several areas
Ericksen received the award in recognition of her academic excellence, volunteerism, leadership and involvement in health care activities.
In addition to having a high GPA, Ericksen is involved in SIU’s Collegiate Future Business Leaders of America Chapter, serving as community service chair. The group typically performs community service activities in the Carbondale area, such as cleaning up refuse on behalf of the Keep Carbondale Beautiful organization, or volunteering at local animal shelters. Ericksen also donates her time individually at a local animal shelter.
“I am thrilled to be chosen to win this award,” Ericksen said. “I feel as though my hard work is finally starting to pay off.”
Longtime interest in health care
“Ever since I was little, I have been fascinated with health care facilities and how they handle business,” Ericksen said.
She began her college career at SIU as an education major but found herself becoming increasingly interested in the business operations of schools instead of the teaching aspect. That led her to explore her options in the College of Business, where she soon became a management major. Ericksen was really “excited” to discover she could incorporate a management of health-care enterprises specialization within her major.
Supportive environment at SIU
The daughter of Katheryn and Tim Ericksen, Laura said she has thoroughly enjoyed her time at SIU. She proclaims the faculty and staff on campus and in the business college her favorite part. “They have been welcoming and friendly throughout my time here,” she said. “I feel fortunate to have been surrounded by an amazing group of intelligent and caring individuals.”
She also enjoys swimming at the Student Recreation Center and hiking at Giant City State Park when she has time.
Northern future plans
Laura plans a career as a human resources manager at a health care facility, probably in the Chicago or Detroit area, after graduating in May.
“The memories I’ve made during my time here will last a lifetime, and although I will be gone from SIU, I will hold onto all of the relationships I’ve made forever,” Ericksen said.
The health care honor includes a certificate and a monetary award.