Kate Paris is the Vice President of Advocacy, Marketing & Policy at UnitedHealthcare Community & State, the division of UnitedHealthcare responsible for serving over 7 million of individuals who qualify for Medicaid across 31 states. Kate is responsible for shaping and advocating for policy agendas as well as positioning Community & State as a trusted thought leader and partner with federal, state, and local health and social programs. Kate has extensive experience in health and public policy and is passionate about improving systems and programs to ensure fair and equitable access to care for the individuals, families, and communities these systems serve. She currently serves as the Chair of the Medicaid Health Plans of America policy committee and sits on the board of SNPAlliance. Prior to joining UnitedHealthcare in 2012, Kate had a variety of professional roles that focused on policy, economic development, and rural communities. Her work within the agricultural sector to support local food, food processing, and renewable energy built a strong foundation and understanding of the connection between food, health, and the policies that shape both. Kate has spent time in the non-profit sector and within the administrative and executive branches of state government. Kate received her Masters of Public Administration from the University of North Dakota and her bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota Morris.