Communications & Interventions

Susana M. Konishi, MA, is Project Manager. She works primarily on the Medi-Cal Access Project. She has experience in researching, evaluating, and implementing culturally sensitive programs for both seniors and people with disabilities. Before joining HRA in 2007, Susana was an Activity and Volunteer Coordinator at Sunrise Senior Living and a Wellness Program Assistant at On Lok Senior Services. Susana has a master's degree in Gerontology from San Francisco State University, and undergraduate degrees in Anthropology and Psychology from UC Berkeley.

Marilyn Mansfield, MS, is Senior Editor. She has been developing and writing health education materials for more than 15 years. Before joining HRA in 2003, she was a writer for Krames Communications. She has also worked as a writer and communications director at the California Academy of Family Physicians and the Society for Nutrition Education, and has done extensive freelance writing in the health field. She brings experience writing for low-literacy audiences and integrating text and graphics to HRA's publications. She holds an MS in Communications and a BA in English from Stanford University.

Beccah Rothschild, MPA, is Director of Health Literacy Projects. She previously served HRA as the Director of the California Health Communication Project. She has worked in the fields of adult and health literacy since 1997, managing a statewide health literacy initiative, coordinating a family literacy program, and developing curricula for adult students with limited literacy skills. She joined HRA in 2004. She holds an MPA from San Francisco State University and a BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Katherine M. Simpson, MA, is Director of Health Communications. She has 30 years of experience developing health promotion programs and resources. Before joining HRA in 2000, she was Director of Education at Planned Parenthood: Shasta Diablo. She has also practiced as a Marriage and Family Therapist and consulted on sexuality and disability issues. She holds an MA in Psychology from John F. Kennedy University and a BA in English from Reed College.