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Virtual

SPARK Monthly Meeting


SPARK strengthens postpartum care by standardizing discharge education, improving the identification of early warning signs, and connecting families to timely follow-up and ongoing support. Monthly Meetings present various topics related to initiative-specific education and quality improvement, as well as offer an opportunity or learning collaboration. SPARK monthly meetings are open to SPARK initiative participants only.

Presenters


Ashlie Gates, BSN, RNC-MNN

Quality Improvement Advisor

With over 13 years of dedicated experience in nursing, Ashlie has built a robust career focused on the perinatal population, whom she has supported through a variety of roles within the hospital, including administration, leadership, and bedside nursing.

As a Postpartum RN, Ashlie has cultivated a passion for education, guiding patients through the complexities of their perinatal experiences. Her empathetic approach and deep understanding of this unique journey empowers her to provide exceptional support and care to new families.

Ashlie is an advocate for continuous improvement in healthcare settings. She has successfully implemented process enhancements across various units, prioritizing patient care, nurse satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Her dedication to fostering a positive environment contributes to the overall well-being of both patients and staff.

Ashlie earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Colorado State University before pursuing her Bachelor’s in Nursing from the Denver College of Nursing, where she graduated magna cum laude.

In her free time, Ashlie co-leads a school based community garden and enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids.

Kari Ricard, MBA

Clinical Quality Improvement Program Manager

Kari Ricard is a dedicated leader in Population Health Management and Health Equity, with a specialized focus on improving health outcomes for marginalized communities. A passionate advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Kari leads initiatives that foster inclusive healthcare practices. She champions the need for culturally competent care, works to reduce stigma, and promotes policies sensitive to the diverse identities within the communities that make up Colorado.

Her commitment to equity extends to her role as a founding board member of San Luis Valley Pride, where she promotes visibility, support, and equality for marginalized populations.

Kari holds an MBA in Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor’s in Science, along with certifications in Lean Six Sigma and Project Management from Colorado State University.

Outside of work, Kari is a travel enthusiast, constantly exploring new destinations to broaden her perspective. She is also a passionate Dungeon Master, crafting immersive tabletop role-playing adventures for others to enjoy.