Important MHCA Staffing Update

• By: Ben Hawkins
• On: 06/26/2025 15:15:02
• In: Announcements/Reminders

MHCA announces that Ben Hawkins, Director of Public Affairs, will be leaving the association effective July 9^th. After 2.5 years with the association, Ben has decided to pursue a master's degree and will be relocating out of state for graduate school.
 
Ben came to MHCA with a strong background in communications, public relations, and workforce development. Previously, he served as the marketing specialist for Eastern Maine Development Corporation, program coordinator for the Northeastern Workforce Development Board, and business outreach coordinator for Congressman Jim Himes. He also worked closely with a diverse team of state and regional partners to create a cohesive system that meets the workforce development needs of those affected by substance use disorder.
 
In his role as MHCA Director of Public Affairs, Ben was instrumental in many advocacy efforts including passing legislation that resulted in annual data collection and reporting of staffing agency information to increase transparency and accountability of Temporary Nurse Agencies. He also helped lead the highly successful “Who Will Care” social media campaign with action alerts, press conferences and targeted messaging that led to significant new investments in nursing facility rate reform. He has also successfully written several grant proposals, including a pilot project to develop tools and strategies to effectively recruit, support, and retain new Mainers who face barriers to employment in the long term care sector.
 
Angela Cole Westhoff, MHCA President/ CEO comments, “Ben has been a key player in MHCA's legislative agenda and work force development initiatives. He is an extremely quick study with strong analytical and communication skills. MHCA members have appreciated his commitment to advocacy on behalf of the sector. We thank him for his service and wish him continued success in future endeavors.”
 
"It has been an immense privilege serving Maine's long term care community. The association is filled with compassionate, dedicated members, and I am grateful to have joined them in the pursuit of improving the quality and sustainability of the state's healthcare continuum," adds Ben Hawkins. 
 
Please join us in thanking Ben for his dedicated service and wishing him all the best as he pursues an advanced degree.
 
Staff contact: awesthoff@mehca.org