The Fund supports networks of state health policy decision makers to help identify, inspire, and inform policy leaders.
A bipartisan group of state health policymakers from both the executive and legislative branches who are focused on improving population health.
Networks of state officials, advocates, and others aiming to invest in and transform primary care.
A program dedicated to advancing state-based efforts to make health care more affordable for residents, employers, and states.
The Milbank Memorial Fund supports two state leadership programs for legislative and executive branch state government officials committed to improving population health.
A leadership development program for early and mid-career state government officials who are committed to improving the health of all people in their communities.
A leadership program for senior state government officials who are committed to improving population health.
The Fund focuses on creating an affordable health care system built on strong primary care and partnerships that improve health outcomes for all.
Improving state leaders’ ability to enact and implement evidence-based health policies.
Advancing policies that create a more prevention- and primary care-oriented health system.
Improving population health through policies that contain health care cost growth.
Our state health policy resources offer relevant data analysis and best practices.
The Fund publishes reports, issues briefs, and case studies on state health policy issues.
Short takes on health policy issues from Milbank staff and guest authors.
Insights from Milbank President Debra Lubar on state health policymaking.
Reported articles and Q&As on timely health policy issues, as well as foundation updates.
Milbank Memorial Fund and Milbank Quarterly webinars featuring state health policymakers and researchers.
Updates and expert contact information for reporters.
The Milbank Memorial Fund is a private foundation that works to improve population health and health equity.
Distinguished McKnight University Professor, Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health and Co-Director, University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center and Rural Health Program
Katy Backes Kozhimannil, PhD, MPA is a Distinguished McKnight University Professor in the Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health. She is Co-Director of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center and the University of Minnesota Rural Health Program.
Dr. Kozhimannil lives on Dakota land (Mahto Bde). Her ancestors come from northern Minnesota (Gaa-waabaabiganikaag Anishinaabeg, the White Earth Nation), Germany and France. She earned a PhD at Harvard University, an MPA at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, and a BA at the University of Minnesota.
Dr. Kozhimannil conducts research to inform health policy that supports people at critical times in their lives, including pregnancy and childbirth. Referencing her research and recommendations, new local, state, and federal laws have allocated resources to improve access to prenatal, obstetric, and postpartum care, focusing on communities that face challenges accessing high quality care, including rural communities. In 2025, she was elected to the National Academy of Medicine in recognition of her research and policy leadership to improve maternal and child health, particularly in rural and Native American communities. Dr. Kozhimannil teaches courses that build skills for engagement in public health programs, policy, and research, and works extensively to inform leaders with the power to improve health and well-being.