Andrea Walsh (’88) Named CEO of HealthPartners

Andrea Walsh (’88) has been named chief executive officer of HealthPartners, a Minnesota-based nonprofit with 1,700 physicians, seven hospitals, 55 primary care clinics, 23 urgent care clinics, and numerous specialty care clinics.

Walsh will replace Mary Brainerd, the current top executive, who plans to retire in June.

“I’ve been fortunate to work closely with Mary for much of my career,” said Walsh. “I look forward to leading HealthPartners and continuing our focus on providing the best and most affordable care and coverage for our patients, members, and the community.”

Walsh has worked for 20 years at HealthPartners, first as senior vice president and corporate counsel and more recently as chief marketing officer. Ruth Mickelsen, chair of the HealthPartners board of directors, says the Law School graduate “has deep experience and will capably lead HealthPartners as its next president and CEO. The organization is positioned well for the future.”

Revenue at HealthPartners topped $5.7 billion in 2015, more than triple its revenue in 2002. 

Walsh is a native of Rochester, Minn. Her father, grandfather, and great-grandfather worked as physicians, and she previously served as assistant commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Health. Before attending the Law School, she earned business and English degrees at the University of Kansas.