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Flaks, Congressman Larson Conversation Kicks Off Leadership Series

March 21, 2023

Leaders come in all forms, and Hartford HealthCare wants to expose its colleagues to the ideas, passion and tenacity that create them.

Its new “Leadership Series” features insight from diverse leaders working both in and outside the healthcare industry. The series kicked off this week with a conversation between Hartford HealthCare President and CEO Jeffrey Flaks and Congressman John Larson, who is in his 12th term representing the First District in Congress.

“He answers the phone every time we call… I’ve always been amazed at your selflessness and your true commitment to public service,” Flaks said of Larson, noting his vision for Hartford and his tendency to think “bigger and bolder.”

Set in the new ideation lab at the system’s headquarters at 100 Pearl Street, before an audience of about 100 colleagues, the session included conversation about Larson’s work on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, his push for new infrastructure in Hartford, and his thoughts on how investing in innovation and healthcare will keep Connecticut relevant in the changing world economy.

“We must invest to stay relevant,” Flaks said, adding that bringing people back into the office would support the state and its cities, ensuring that downtowns are “vibrant sources of great thinking and ideation.”

The best leaders, Larson said, are those who surround themselves with people who are smarter than them, and then listen to what they have to say.

“You’re not always going to agree but you begin to hear a perspective and then encourage the dialogue that perspective brings,” he said.

“Leadership Series” will be offered periodically throughout the year to give Hartford HealthCare colleagues fresh perspective. They can attend in person or virtually.