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.
Director, Area Agency on Aging, Allegheny County Department of Human Services
Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, PhD, is Director of the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging at the Department of Human Services (DHS-AAA). A Georgetown University graduate with a master’s and doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh, she holds certifications in program evaluation, public policy, and gerontology innovations.
Since joining DHS-AAA in 2022, Shannah had led a 135-member team and 82 contracted providers who serve over 40,000 people annually. She has expanded the agency’s partnerships, secured millions in new funding, and introduced innovative workforce solutions to address direct-care challenges and in-home care waitlists.
Previously, she spent over a decade as a nonprofit leader, developing community-driven advocacy for racial, economic, and social justice. As research director for Homewood Children’s Village and a behavioral scientist at RAND Corporation, she crafted data-driven policy recommendations for state, local, community, educational, and health initiatives for two decades. She currently serves as Allegheny County Sanitary Authority Board President.