Her Story
About Shana
Shana Parker, MBA, is a seasoned healthcare business development professional serving as Senior Capture and Proposal Manager at DentaQuest, where she has built an extensive career in the dental insurance industry. Beginning in customer service, she advanced through various roles, including Claims Specialist, Quality Assurance Specialist, Claims Trainer, Project Manager, and Program Manager, developing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare operations and business strategy. In her current role, Shana focuses on strategic business development, capture and proposal management, and creating compelling value propositions for prospective clients. She holds a Master of Business Administration in Corporate Communications from Concordia University-Wisconsin and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing Management from Upper Iowa University.
Throughout her career, Shana has demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, process improvement, cost and risk management, and value-based care initiatives. She has contributed to innovative healthcare programs designed to improve access to care, enhance patient outcomes, and manage costs while supporting organizational growth. Her accomplishments include exceeding business development goals, contributing to value-based care initiatives, and receiving the Black Excellence Alliance Award, along with nominations for CEO recognition. Shana is also committed to inclusive leadership and employee development, having served as Co-Chair of DentaQuest's African American Employee Resource Group and participated in workplace diversity and engagement initiatives. Her professional philosophy centers on intentional career planning, relationship-building, continuous learning, and mentoring others.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Shana is dedicated to entrepreneurship, community service, and personal growth. As a property management business owner, she combines her business acumen with an interest in real estate and investment opportunities. She is also involved with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and has supported community initiatives focused on oral health and access to dental care. Passionate about mentoring and empowering others, Shana strives to help individuals recognize their potential and pursue meaningful career opportunities. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and exploring new interests. Guided by the importance of intentionality and perseverance, Shana continues to pursue opportunities that allow her to grow as a leader while making a positive impact on her profession and community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being intentional about career development and advancement, building relationships, taking on roles that elevate me and enhance my skill set, and strategic planning for leadership in business development.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My late cousin Dr. Kiana Pumphrey taught me to be intentional not only with my space but with my mind, my energy, my love. She always made time for what she was intentional about.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You're not going to know it all in the beginning. Try new things, meet new people, take a chance on yourself, believe in yourself. Be intentional with your time, your energy, and your space. Be very intentional on what you do say yes to.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe adaptability, continuous learning, and collaboration are essential as the dental insurance and healthcare industries evolve, creating opportunities to improve patient outcomes, manage costs, and strengthen client relationships through innovation and strategic business development.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Intentionality, integrity, family, professional excellence, mentorship, community service, and continuous learning. Being deliberate about personal and professional decisions.
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