News

Skeete has a strong foundation — and vision — for a successful career

Published on October 1, 2013

MHA student Darcelle Skeete has a strong foundation—and vision—for a successful career.

With her sights set on a career in national health care policy and health care compliance, Darcelle Skeete is well on her way to making these goals a reality.

An outstanding student, Skeete deftly manages an impressive slate of classes and internships along with volunteer activities.

“I’ve been an advocate for women’s issues, diversity, and social activism,” says Skeete, whose honors include the Charles R. Linden Health Management scholarship for her interest in the nonprofit sector of health care, David A. Winston Health Policy scholarship, UI Diversity Catalyst award, and Midwest Regional Black Law Student Association Distinguished Member award.

Skeete, an alumna of Florida International University, attended law school at the University of Iowa and graduated in May 2013. Currently enrolled in the Master of Health Administration program, she anticipates finishing her degree in May 2014.

As a graduate assistant for Keith Mueller, professor and head of health management and policy, Skeete is learning about rural health policy issues. She has also completed several internships at nonprofit/public hospitals that have provided valuable experience.

“I’ve worked with general counsels and compliance officers on federal civil rights laws, patient discrimination, and health information privacy issues,” says Skeete, who’s currently interning at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Skeete’s first career goal is to work as a health care compliance officer/administrator. Her second career goal is to work as a policy director with the Department of Health and Human Services on minority health policies and programs.

“The diversity and inclusiveness of professions and educational environments are important issues in a society like ours where women and minorities are still grossly underrepresented,” says Skeete. “As a member of both groups, I want to make people aware of the issues and setbacks these groups may face. Everyone can learn from those whose experiences, beliefs, and perspectives are different from their own.”

Skeete credits her parents for instilling her with ambition.

“In 1980, they emigrated from Guyana in their 30’s with my three siblings seeking better opportunities in the U.S.,” says Skeete. “They worked and attained post-secondary degrees, while raising us. They always emphasized the importance of education, doing well, service, and being kind to others.”

Their efforts have paid off; two of Skeete’s siblings are physicians and one is a health care administrator. “I owe my motivation to succeed to my parents,” she says.