In a world where leadership can take many forms, being selected as a Presidential Leadership Scholar for the 10th annual class is both an honor and a responsibility.
This opportunity represents more than a recognition of my work—it is an invitation to step further into a leadership role that positively impacts the human experience.
When I applied to the program, my hope was to learn from leaders who have led at the highest levels, including the presidential administrations of George W. Bush, William J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson. Their experiences in navigating complex decisions and shaping national and global policies provide invaluable lessons for any leader aspiring to drive change. This program is also an opportunity to connect with leaders from across industries, each of whom brings unique insights, skills, and perspectives to the cohort.
On a personal level, being selected validates that the work I do resonates, intrigues, and inspires others. But for me, this is not just a moment of validation—it is a stepping-stone to something larger. I have always believed in the transformative power of leadership, and this program will help me broaden my impact, refine my leadership philosophy, and take the visibility of my work to a national stage.
What I Hope to Achieve
Over the next six months, I have three key goals for this experience:
- Learn from the best. Studying the decisions, challenges, and successes of former presidents and their administrations will provide an unparalleled framework for understanding leadership at the highest levels.
- Expand network. I am excited to meet and collaborate with the cohort of leaders who, like me, are committed to making a difference in their communities, organizations, and the world.
- Amplify impact. As someone deeply committed to redefining healthcare education, this program will give me the tools and visibility to inspire broader change and innovation in this critical space.
“We all do better when we work together. Our differences do matter, but our common humanity matters more.”
― Bill Clinton
Leadership as a Mission
In all things I do, my guiding principle is to positively impact the human experience. This philosophy drives not only my work at Northwell Health but my passion for creating spaces where stories and lessons can inspire others.
At Northwell, this mission comes to life through initiatives like the Northwell School of Health Sciences, FutureReadyNYC, and MedVoyage. By creating accessible pathways to healthcare education and careers, we are breaking down barriers and empowering the next generation to pursue opportunities they may not have thought possible. I believe that education is health—and when we equip individuals with the tools to succeed, we uplift families, strengthen communities, and lay the foundation for generational change.
This same belief underpins my work as the creator and host of Why I Left, a podcast that explores the personal journeys of individuals who have transitioned out of their jobs to pursue something more meaningful. Chronicling these stories has deepened my understanding of the complexities of work, purpose, and fulfillment. It is a reminder that leadership extends beyond organizational boundaries—it is about meeting people where they are, amplifying their voices, and fostering a sense of belonging and possibility.
Together, these facets of my life reflect a commitment to transforming lives through action, empathy, and vision. Whether helping someone find their path in healthcare or sharing stories that resonate on a deeply personal level, my work is rooted in the belief that when we positively impact one person, we create a ripple effect that can inspire lasting change.
The Presidential Leadership Scholars program aligns seamlessly with this philosophy. It is a platform for leaders who are unafraid to confront the most pressing challenges of our time and who understand that true leadership often means creating opportunities for others.
Acknowledgments and Gratitude
This moment would not have been possible without the support of so many people. To my family, your love and encouragement fuel my passion and resilience. To my kids, the pure joy you bring to my life reminds me why the work I do matters. To my personal network of sponsors, mentors and advisors, including Michael Dowling, Chike Aguh, Anwau Huffman, and many more, thank you for believing in my vision and guiding me along this journey. To my colleagues in the Center for Learning and Innovation, Community and Population Health, and across Northwell Health, your consistent dedication inspires me.
I also want to thank the presidential libraries and the Presidential Leadership Scholars program for selecting me as part of this esteemed cohort. To my fellow #PLScholars, I am eager to learn from each of you, collaborate on solutions to the challenges we face, and contribute to the collective vision of this extraordinary group.
Looking Ahead
As I begin the PLS journey, I am filled with excitement and hope as this opportunity represents the intersection of my professional mission and personal philosophy. I know that the lessons learned, and the connections made will refine my own leadership and positively impact others, influencing the work I do to redefine healthcare education, uplift underserved communities, and share real stories from real people that resonate. Equally important, I look forward to sharing my experiences and insight with the cohort.
Leadership is not about titles or accolades—it is about making a meaningful difference. I am humbled to embark on this journey, grateful for the people who have supported me along the way and look forward to seeing what we will accomplish together.
To the future!
Summary:
3 goals for my Presidential Leadership Scholars journey:
- Learn from the best.
- Expand network.
- Amplify impact.
Thanks for reading!
Stay Curious,
Brian
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Brian Aquart is a Healthcare Executive, Consultant and Executive Producer of Why I Left, a podcast chronicling real stories from real people about why they left their jobs. He is also a member of the 10th annual class of the Presidential Leadership Scholars Program. Stay up to date with Brian on LinkedIn.
