Raja Gounder is a dedicated healthcare professional and Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt with a passion for empowering healthcare teams through education, leadership development, and continuous professional growth. As a Learning and Organizational Development Specialist at Northwell Health, she specializes in training Patient Access Team Members across key departments—including the Emergency Room, Labor and Delivery, Radiology, and Laboratory—at Northern Westchester and Phelps Hospitals. She also plays a vital role in the operational transition to EPIC EMR as an EPIC Super User, ensuring a seamless adaptation for healthcare teams.

 Raja’s career journey reflects a unique blend of clinical expertise and healthcare leadership. She began her career as an Exercise Physiologist in 2015 after earning a Master’s in Exercise Science and Physical Education from Montclair State University. In 2018, she transitioned into Physical Therapy, becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and working directly with patients in acute care, long-term care, and rehabilitation settings. Her pursuit of leadership led her to earn a Master’s in Health Administration from Hofstra University, during which she achieved three promotions—including one just before graduation in May 2024. This diverse background allows her to approach healthcare education with a multidimensional perspective, bridging patient care with operational excellence.

 Beyond her work in healthcare, Raja is deeply committed to advocacy and social impact. She served on the Board of Directors at Cycling for Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds to combat human trafficking. In recognition of her advocacy efforts, she was awarded the 2023 HLNY Leonard Achan Sr. Health Equity Scholarship for her work in addressing health disparities and empowering survivors.

 Having navigated multiple career transitions and leadership advancements, Raja brings a personal and professional perspective to discussions on imposter syndrome. She understands the challenges of self-doubt and has developed strategies to overcome it while achieving career milestones. Through her experiences, she aims to foster meaningful conversations that inspire individuals to embrace their strengths, build confidence, and lead with authenticity.

 In addition to her professional and nonprofit work, Raja actively participates in community health initiatives, volunteering at emergency medical tents for athletic races and health fairs. She believes in the power of resilience, authenticity, and continuous learning to drive personal and professional success.