Shannon Wilson Recognized with RISE 2025 Trailblazer Award for Health Equity Leadership
Shannon Wilson Awarded RISE 2025 Trailblazer Recognition
In a momentous ceremony held at RISE National 2025 in San Antonio, Texas, Shannon Wilson, the Vice President of Population Health and Health Equity at Priority Health, was honored with the prestigious RISE Trailblazer Award on March 13, 2025. This annual award acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated remarkable innovation, leadership, and commitment to improving the healthcare landscape, particularly for America’s senior population.
The RISE Trailblazer Award, formerly known as the Dr. Martin L. Block Award for Innovation & Excellence, is named in memory of the late Dr. Block, who was a significant advocate for healthcare transformation until his untimely passing in 2013. Dr. Block was revered for his contributions to the risk adjustment sector and often graced the stage at RISE National events, sharing his wealth of knowledge with attendees.
Shannon Wilson stood out among seven finalists for this award, receiving votes from the RISE community which recognized her outstanding efforts in the field of health equity. As Priority Health’s first VP of Population Health and Equity, appointed in 2022, Wilson has dedicated her career to enhancing health outcomes for underserved populations. Her award nomination was championed by Kyla King, VP of Individual Markets at Priority Health, who lauded Wilson’s tireless commitment to improving the health and well-being of all individuals in her care.
According to King, "Shannon brings invaluable expertise to Priority Health and has built a talented, compassionate team that works alongside the populations we serve." Wilson’s role encompasses overseeing quality improvement initiatives for various lines of business, including Medicare, Medicaid, commercial, and individual plans. Her strategic oversight also extends to the Priority Health Total Health Foundation, where she actively promotes health equity.
Beyond her responsibilities at Priority Health, Wilson is a prominent figure in the healthcare community, serving on multiple boards including Meijer Gardens, Children’s Healing Center, Our Kitchen Table, and Net Health of West Michigan. She is recognized as an authority on how health disparities intersect with race and has spearheaded transformative initiatives aimed at enhancing the healthcare experience for vulnerable populations.
The RISE community praised Wilson for her unwavering dedication and innovative approach to healthcare, elements that are vital for inspiring future leaders in the industry. Her recognition not only highlights her personal achievements but also emphasizes the importance of leadership committed to equity and improvement in the healthcare system.
The RISE conference, a leading hub for healthcare professionals focused on managed care, brings together experts to explore pressing issues in the Medicare Advantage space. RISE facilitates more than 30 conferences annually and provides resources and networking opportunities for current and upcoming leaders in the healthcare field. The organization reflects its mission of fostering career advancement and sharing crucial industry intelligence with professionals.
The RISE Trailblazer Award serves as a testament to Shannon Wilson's exceptional contributions and highlights the ongoing need for innovative leadership in the pursuit of equitable healthcare for all. As she continues to align efforts towards achieving this mission, her story stands as an inspiration for those within and outside the healthcare community.