About this speaker
Michelle Garrison is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of a privately held, multimillion-dollar international healthcare revenue cycle company called GetixHealth, LLC. Mrs. Garrison started with GetixHealth in 2015, and as the CFO, she is responsible for managing all financial aspects of the company including the proper financial controls, reporting procedures, talent, and systems required for financial strength and overall operational efficiency.
Michelle has successfully completed numerous projects at GetixHealth. One of her greatest accomplishments is how she continuously supports GetixHealth growth with acquisitions of large legacy companies. Through her direct contributions and leadership, she has directed 12 acquisitions, expanded from one office in Houston to 15 offices across the globe, and directly contributed to an increase in employee count (+800%) and annual revenue (+500%). Due to the company’s fast expansion, Mrs. Garrison had to not only re-engineer financial processes, policies, and procedures, but also cultivate and encourage a positive work atmosphere in her new and established staff.
As an Atlanta, Georgia native, Michelle earned her Bachelor of Science from Georgia Institute of Technology, and her Master of Accounting and Financial Management from Keller Graduate School of Management. During her collegiate career, she was an active member of the National Association of Black Engineers and the National Society of Women Engineers. In 1997, Michelle broke a 43-year-old barrier by becoming the first black female electrical engineer to be hired by one of the largest electrical construction companies in the southeast area. Then prior to moving to the Greater Houston area, Mrs. Garrison founded and operated her own commercial construction company.
In 2019, Mrs. Garrison was a recipient of The Top 30 Most Influential Women in Houston Award. Recipients of this award are successful, diverse women who encompass tenacity, discipline, and diligence in all aspects of their lives. Michelle also had the prestigious honor of being a speaker and moderator at the 2019 National Diversity Conference where President Barack Obama was the keynote.
Michelle attributes her early success to understanding the necessity of a good mentor, staying true to your values, getting out of your comfort zone, valuing rest, and working hard. She encourages young women to find a place in the workforce with someone whom they can be vulnerable and will help guide them in their career. Get out of your comfort zone, network, and find similarities and likeness with others. Throughout your career, remember to speak up, “If you don’t know – ask.”
Mrs. Garrison influences and advocates for success in all aspects of life, and it exudes not only in her professional accolades, but also in her personal life. Michelle co-founded a life skills group name Christian’s Ready Equipped and Willing (C.R.E.W.). CREW is a group of high school student athletes who complete Christian based teachings and community service, in preparation for the transition from high school to college.
Michelle has a rich love for culture and family, she is married and the mother of four beautiful children.
Michelle also understands the importance of giving back, and her faith is what strengthens and motivates her to persevere no matter the circumstances. Michelle’s favorite bible verse is Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things!”