Staff
Rick Abrams, J.D.
Chief Executive Officer
Rick@whcawical.org | C: (516) 241-2879
Rick Abrams is the Chief Executive Officer of WHCA/WiCAL. With more than 15 years working in the long-term care profession, Rick brings a wealth of health care experience, including prior work at the New Jersey AHCA/NCAL Affiliate, and as COO at AHCA/NCAL. More recently, Rick has worked with the American Medical Association and the Wisconsin Medical Society. Rick holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Minnesota and a law degree from Seton Hall University School of Law.
Jena Jackson
Senior Vice President, Membership & Business Development
Jena@whcawical.org | C: (608) 279-5615
Jena holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from the University of Northern Iowa and has a diverse background in brand management, public relations, and business development. Jena has nearly 20 years of professional experience, focusing on business growth, revenue diversification, relationship development, and client/member engagement. Jena continues to use her array of professional experiences and background to help grow WHCA/WiCAL membership, develop lasting partnerships, and enhance offerings and benefits to both members and business partners. Jena plans and implements association events and educational programs, is the lead on member and business partner relationships and development, oversees association marketing, is the key contact for advertising and sponsorship opportunities, and serves on the various association committees. Jena is also on the board of the AHCA/NCAL Long Term Care Meeting Professionals Group, serves on the WCCEAL Advisory Committee, and sits on the University of Wisconsin Healthcare Administration Advisory Board.
Eric Koch
Senior Vice President, Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs
ekoch@whcawical.org | C: (920) 915-4726
Eric Koch is the Senior Vice President of Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs of WHCA/WiCAL. Eric brings more than 13 years of experience in the Wisconsin Legislature, including roles in leadership offices, working on a diverse array of issues areas, and collaborating with numerous State Agencies on policy implementation and regulatory issues. He is a proud life-long Wisconsinite with a Bachelor’s from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Eric is a jack of all trades both professionally and personally, and enjoys learning new issues and new skills. He has a track record of using public policy to improve the lives and well-being of people and communities in the state.
Kate Dickson, MPA
Senior Vice President, Reimbursement Policy
Kate@whcawical.org
Kate Dickson is a graduate of the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University with a Master of Public Administration as well as a graduate certificate in Public Health. Kate has a strong background in quantitative analysis and statistical research. She has held internships with the American Cancer Society, Childspring International and the Lupus Foundation of America. Hired in 2014, Kate provides WHCA/WiCAL members with data, policy and financial analysis. Please contact Kate with questions that you have about any of these matters.
Taylor Larson
Vice President, Administration & Communications
taylor@whcawical.org | C: (319) 269-2486
Taylor is WHCA/WiCAL’s Vice President of Administration & Communications, bringing over a decade of experience in management and operations to her role. She plays a critical part in ensuring the association runs smoothly by overseeing membership services, managing the membership database, and handling key financial functions for the Association including payroll, benefits, accounts payable/receivable, and dues billing. Taylor is also the primary contact for WCCEAL enrollment and related inquiries, and a vital member of the events and education team, supporting event planning and coordinating all aspects of educational credit with NAB. In addition, she manages the Association’s publications, social media presence, and member communications, including newsletters and timely updates.