PRISM Moves Forward: Honoring the Past and Looking Ahead
At 3RNET, we are proud of how far PRISM has come—and even more excited about where it’s headed next. What began more than a decade ago as a unique collaboration to help states collect and use meaningful workforce data has grown into a trusted, powerful tool that continues to strengthen rural and underserved healthcare programs across the country.
Like any great program, PRISM’s strength comes from the people behind it. The team behind PRISM has been, and will continue to see some big changes! We wanted to take the time to share some of what’s happening behind the scenes, so you are not only up-to-date, but can continue to utilize the PRISM program you know and trust as we navigate these transitions in a way that allows PRISM to continue to not only grow, but thrive.
Celebrating Jackie Fannell and Her Incredible PRISM Legacy
Starting October 1, Jackie Fannell, who has been PRISM’s “go-to” person since day one, semi-retired.
Jackie is continuing part-time with 3RNET to support our overall operations, but she’ll be stepping back from her leadership role with PRISM. This marks one of the biggest transitions in PRISM’s history—and one we approach with both pride and gratitude.
Jackie has been the steady hand guiding PRISM through every season of change: organizational transitions, name and brand updates, and technical improvements. Her deep knowledge, reliability, and kindness have shaped PRISM into what it is today.
Reflecting on her 13 years with the program, Jackie shared,
“PRISM is like a wheel with spokes—the state offices, Sheps Center, and 3RNET are all vital pieces that keep the program strong. If one spoke breaks, the wheel wouldn’t turn as well.”
She says she’s most proud of the partnerships that have come together to make PRISM stronger year after year. And while she’ll miss the detective work of “keeping data clean,” she’s ready to pass the torch.
“It’s been a fun ride,” Jackie said, “but I’m ready to pass the torch!”
We’ll miss her presence immensely—but we’re so excited for her next chapter.
Thank You, Dr. Don Pathman
We also celebrate Dr. Don Pathman, whose expertise and leadership have been foundational to PRISM’s success. Beginning in 2026, Don will transition from PRISM’s Principal Investigator, handing this role over to his colleague at the Sheps Center, Dr. Brianna Lombardi.
In reflecting back on his time helping build and lead PRISM, Don shared:
“When Nebraska’s then-PCO, Tom Rauner, first approached me about helping ten states collect uniform data for their loan repayment programs, I thought it was a great idea,” Don recalled. “Here we are, a dozen years later, still carrying out that vision.”
Don’s thoughtful guidance has helped PRISM grow from a one-time survey to a multi-state data system that supports and informs real workforce decisions.
“I’m proud that PRISM has persisted and continues to evolve and make an impact,” Don shared. “It’s a testament to everyone involved and their shared commitment.”
As Don transitions into semi-retirement, we’re deeply grateful for his leadership, partnership, and the legacy of collaboration he leaves behind.
Meet the Team Leading PRISM Forward
We know the transition from Jackie and Don is significant, as they have been the consistent team behind PRISM since the very beginning. PRISM has seen its fair share of change, growth, and adaptation, but Jackie and Don have been the constant since day one.
As we honor Jackie and Don’s many contributions, we’re equally excited to share what’s next for PRISM.
Mark Barclay: Guiding PRISM into the Future
If you know 3RNET, you likely already know Mark Barclay, who has led our technical growth and membership support for nearly 12 years. Now, Mark will lead PRISM technology forward, bringing his thoughtful approach and technical expertise to continue improving the system for all users.
“We want to make PRISM more accessible and useful for our state users,” Mark says. “That means quicker access to reports, a smoother interface, and better data visuals. Our users are busy—we want to remove barriers and focus on what they need most.”
Mark’s vision for “PRISM 2.0” centers on simplicity, usability, and better integration with 3RNET’s tools.
Welcoming Natalie Uy to the PRISM Team
Joining Mark is Natalie Uy, who came on board in July as PRISM’s new Data Analyst.
Natalie brings the perfect mix of experience and enthusiasm—she previously served as Alaska’s PRISM user and has a strong background in data visualization. She understands both the user perspective and the power of data to tell stories and drive impact.
“I’m excited to start exploring PRISM’s data from a new perspective,” Natalie shared. “My goal is to help states leverage their PRISM data in ways that strengthen rural health workforce efforts.”
Natalie will be PRISM user’s central support staff, and will work with both Mark and the team at Sheps to help visualize the impact of the data collected within the system.
Looking Ahead: Welcoming Dr. Brianna Lombardi as PRISM’s Next Principal Investigator
Beginning in 2026, Dr. Brianna Lombardi of the Sheps Center will step into the role of PRISM’s Principal Investigator, continuing the legacy of thoughtful leadership established by Dr. Don Pathman.
Brianna brings a deep commitment to rural health, data-driven policy, and interdisciplinary workforce support.
“I’m excited to support states in leveraging data to better understand their health care workforce,” Brianna shared. “PRISM offers a unique opportunity to plan and develop strategies that improve access to care in rural and underserved communities.”
As a social worker by training, Brianna is particularly interested in how different health professionals work together:
“Health care is a team sport. I’m eager to understand how states are supporting interprofessional teams—and how we can use PRISM data to learn from successful rural recruitment and retention strategies.”
Brianna also emphasized the significance of the 3RNET partnership:
“Partnering with 3RNET means contributing to a 30-year legacy of connecting healthcare professionals with communities that need them most. It’s an honor to support their mission in a way that scales nationally while respecting the unique needs of each state.”
The Road Ahead
As PRISM continues to evolve, our commitment remains the same: collaboration, innovation, and strengthening access to care in rural and underserved communities.
This program has always been built on partnership and persistence — and we want to acknowledge that legacy. In addition to Jackie and Don’s leadership, PRISM’s impact has been shaped by many champions across the country, including Nebraska’s Tom Rauner and Maggie Sauer, who were instrumental in ensuring PRISM not only launched but continued to grow and endure through changing needs and shifting landscapes.
3RNET’s Executive Director, Mike Shimmens, shared his gratitude for the people who have carried PRISM forward:
“PRISM exists today because of the persistence and hard work of leaders like Don, Jackie, Tom, and Maggie. They believed in the importance of shared data and collaboration long before it was standard practice. Their dedication is what has kept PRISM going.”
Mike also expressed confidence in the team stepping forward to lead the next chapter:
“I believe we have the right team to continue their work and keep PRISM moving forward for many years to come. The foundation is strong. Our commitment is strong. And our mission remains clear.”
As we look ahead, we are energized by the leadership and collaboration of Mark, Natalie, and Dr. Brianna Lombardi, whose collective expertise and passion will continue to shape PRISM’s evolution.
Here’s to honoring where we’ve been — and to the impact still to come.
If you’d like to connect with the PRISM team, we’re here and happy to support your work. Reach out anytime to Mark, Natalie, or Jackie.