Initiative empowers Medicaid leaders to strengthen programs and drive policy change
Baton Rouge, La. (August 19, 2026) — Louisiana Medicaid Executive Director Seth Gold is one of only six Medicaid directors from across the country chosen to participate in the Medicaid Leadership Institute (MLI), a national initiative led by the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS). The program, an initiative of the National Medicaid Leadership Center, helps Medicaid directors and their leadership teams build the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to lead their agencies and advance key policy priorities.
Bruce D. Greenstein, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health, stated, “Seth’s leadership has fundamentally improved Louisiana’s Medicaid program. Since he joined the department, enrollment numbers have returned to pre-Medicaid expansion levels. His commitment to quality, program integrity, and accountability is leading to better health outcomes for recipients and establishing improved tracking measures for the future. His dedication and strategic insight make him an excellent representative for our state in this national leadership program, and we’re proud to be represented by him in this cohort.”
Gold was selected through a competitive process informed by an external review committee to participate in the leadership development program along with five other Medicaid directors from Alaska, Illinois, Missouri, New York, and North Carolina.
This class of MLI marks the 16th cohort of Medicaid directors chosen for this prestigious executive training opportunity. With this new class, 95 directors from 50 Medicaid agencies have participated in the program since 2009. MLI is directed by Mark Larson, senior vice president at CHCS, former Vermont Medicaid director, and Class of 2014 MLI Fellow.
“At a time of significant change and growing complexity, Medicaid leaders play a critical role in ensuring that millions of people can access the care and services they depend on,” said Mark Larson, senior vice president at CHCS. “The Medicaid Leadership Institute provides directors with a unique opportunity to develop as leaders, gain new perspectives, and learn from peers facing similar challenges across the country. We are thrilled to welcome this year’s cohort and support their efforts to strengthen Medicaid programs and improve care for the communities they serve.”
During the 10-month-long program, fellows gain skills in critical areas, including individual leadership development, communication skills, relationship-building, strategic thinking, and team development. MLI is supported by Arnold Ventures. For more information about MLI, visit chcs.org/medicaid-leadership-institute.