Longtime IU School of Informatics academic cited for her remarkable tenure as Health Information Administration Program director
May 2, 2008
Danita H. Forgey, an architect of the IU School of Informatics Health Information Administration Program (HIA), is stepping down June 30 to pursue a career in health information consultancy. Forgey, a clinical assistant professor joined the IUPUI campus community in 1994 as a lecturer in what then was the School of Allied Health Sciences. During her tenure the HIA Program became affiliated with the School of Informatics, and in June 2001, Forgey was named HIA program director.
“Our move to Informatics came at a great time,” Prof. Forgey said. “We needed more technology and tech support. The administration has been extremely supportive of our program in many ways.”
Under Forgey’s leadership the HIA Program has enjoyed record enrollments, thanks in part to her strategic decision to offer the program’s entire professional curriculum online. Many students from Indiana and beyond earn their degrees via distance education. Certificate programs in medical coding and cancer registry have also been established since the move to Informatics.
“We have had a tremendous response to our online class offerings,” explained Forgey. “The HIA faculty worked hard toward this goal and has been assisted greatly by the School’s outstanding technical support team.”
Forgey earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Record Administration, and Master of Information Science, both from Indiana University. She is a member of the American and Indiana Health Information Management Associations, and received IHIMA’s Professional Achievement Award in 2006. Forgey also is a recipient of the Indiana University Board of Trustees Teaching Excellence Award, and currently serves as president of the School of Informatics Faculty Council.
Forgey has served in numerous capacities related to university service; is a noted local, national and international lecturer on HIA-related issues; and provides professional consultation services to several Indiana hospitals. Felisa Tennant, clinical assistant professor, has been named HIA acting director.
“It has been an honor to work side-by-side with Danita in the HIA program. Only through Danita’s outstanding leadership, direction and vision has this program become as successful as it is today,” said Prof. Tennant. “As acting director my goal is to carry on Danita’s vision and continue moving the program forward as the best, most recognized HIA program in the country.”
Information about the HIA academic programs, degrees and certifications is available here.
