Paula Humbard is a dynamic and results-driven healthcare and human services executive whose career reflects a deep commitment to improving lives through strong leadership, financial stewardship, and innovative program development. With more than 25 years of professional experience, Paula has cultivated a reputation for building high-performing teams, strengthening operational infrastructures, and driving sustainable growth across complex service environments. Her work is grounded in a belief that effective systems, when paired with compassionate leadership, can transform both organizations and the communities they serve.
Currently serving as Senior Operations Director at Enriched Living, Paula plays a pivotal role in overseeing cross-functional operations and ensuring that service delivery aligns with organizational goals and regulatory expectations. In this role, she brings together her expertise in vendor management, operational compliance, and financial oversight to optimize performance and enhance the quality of care. Her leadership style is collaborative yet decisive, fostering accountability while empowering team members to excel.
Prior to her current position, Paula served as Director of Operations at Harry Meyering Center, Inc., where she contributed significantly to organizational efficiency and program expansion. During her tenure, she led initiatives focused on budgeting, forecasting, and profit and loss management while maintaining strict adherence to compliance standards. Her ability to balance financial discipline with mission-driven outcomes allowed her to support both organizational stability and long-term growth.
Paula’s earlier leadership experience includes her role as Acute Behavioral Services Manager at Dungarvin, where she supervised a network of mental health program directors, led the development of new behavioral health programs, and assisted in a large organizational acquisition. She played a key role in designing service models, managing intake processes, and implementing individualized care strategies. Building on this experience, she went on to lead an acquisition at Harry Meyering Center that ultimately doubled the organization’s revenue size. Her work reflects a strong understanding of trauma-informed care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the complexities of behavioral health services.
Her experience also extends into senior services through her work with the Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging. In this capacity, Paula worked closely with hospitals, nursing homes, and community organizations to help seniors transition to independent living. She guided individuals through complex systems such as Medicare, ensuring they received the support and services necessary to maintain their independence and quality of life.
Earlier in her career, Paula demonstrated her versatility through roles in program development, education, and wellness. As a Program Director and Health and Wellness Coach, she developed initiatives that supported both physical and behavioral health outcomes. Her ability to design and implement programs tailored to individual and community needs has remained a consistent strength throughout her career.
Paula’s professional foundation includes significant experience in financial services as a Business Consultant with Wells Fargo. In this role, she worked with executives to analyze financial statements, assess risk, and develop strategic solutions for business growth. This early exposure to high-level financial strategy continues to inform her approach to budgeting, forecasting, and organizational planning today.
Beyond her professional roles, Paula is an engaged community leader and advocate. She currently serves on a city advisory board in New Ulm and contributes to multiple committees focused on financial resources in education and federal initiatives. Her involvement in these roles demonstrates her commitment to civic engagement and her desire to influence policy and community outcomes at a broader level.
Paula is also a recognized voice within the healthcare community, having spoken at events hosted by organizations such as ARRM and MSSA. Her presentations have focused on healthcare policy and innovative program development, highlighting her ability to communicate complex ideas and contribute to industry dialogue. She brings both practical experience and thought leadership to every platform she engages with.
Academically, Paula holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Wellness Management from the University of Wisconsin–Superior, where she graduated with an impressive 3.905 GPA. Her educational background complements her hands-on experience, providing a strong theoretical framework for her work in healthcare administration and organizational leadership.
Driven by a desire to diversify her impact and share her extensive knowledge, Paula is actively seeking board opportunities where she can contribute her expertise and strategic insight. She views board service as a platform to collaborate, mentor, and influence organizational direction while continuing her own professional growth. Her combination of operational expertise, financial acumen, and people-centered leadership makes her a valuable asset to any board.
At her core, Paula Humbard is a leader who believes in the power of connection, accountability, and purpose. She brings not only experience but also passion to every role she undertakes, consistently striving to create environments where individuals and organizations can thrive.
Character:
Paula demonstrates integrity through her consistent commitment to ethical leadership and accountability in every role she undertakes. She approaches challenges with resilience and a solutions-oriented mindset, ensuring that both people and processes are supported. Her dedication to improving lives reflects a deep sense of responsibility and compassion that defines her leadership style.
Knowledge:
She possesses a comprehensive understanding of healthcare operations, financial management, and regulatory compliance built over decades of hands-on experience. She continuously applies her expertise in budgeting, program development, and strategic planning to drive measurable outcomes. Her diverse background across industries strengthens her ability to navigate complex organizational challenges with confidence.
Strategic:
Paula excels at aligning operational execution with long-term organizational goals, ensuring sustainable growth and impact. She brings a forward-thinking approach to program development, financial planning, and organizational transformation. Her ability to anticipate challenges and implement proactive solutions positions her as a highly effective strategic leader.
Communication:
A clear and persuasive communicator who effectively engages stakeholders at all levels, from frontline teams to executive leadership. She has demonstrated her ability to present complex topics through public speaking engagements and professional collaborations. Her communication style fosters trust, transparency, and alignment across organizations.
