About
Phanida Phivilay joined the Economic Progress Institute Board in October 2026.
Phanida Phivilay is the Community Outreach Manager at UnitedHealthcare Community & State Plan in Rhode Island, where she leads efforts to build and strengthen strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, community-based organizations, key stakeholders, elected officials, and community leaders across the state. Through her work, she advances UnitedHealthcare’s strategic priorities, promotes a culture of inclusion and belonging, and supports initiatives that address social determinants of health and improve health outcomes for Rhode Island communities.
With more than 29 years of experience in healthcare, Phanida has dedicated her career to advancing health equity, reducing barriers to care, and amplifying the needs of underserved and historically marginalized populations. She has worked extensively with Health Equity Zones (HEZ) throughout Rhode Island and has served as co-chair of the South Providence HEZ Improving Access to Healthcare Services (IAHS) Subcommittee for more than two years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she volunteered alongside community-based organizations, local temples, and HEZ partners to distribute personal protective equipment, share culturally responsive educational resources, and help address the evolving needs of local communities.
Phanida began her healthcare career at a community-based health center in Providence before spending more than seven years at Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, where she worked in community outreach. Her professional journey reflects a longstanding commitment to connecting individuals and families with essential health information, resources, and services. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she has contributed extensively to civic and nonprofit leadership, serving on numerous boards, councils, and commissions. She made history as the first Southeast Asian woman elected board president of the Center for Southeast Asians (CSEA) and has also served on the Providence School Board.
In January 2025, Phanida was appointed to the Johnston School Committee, further extending her commitment to public service, educational equity, and community advocacy. Having lived in Rhode Island for more than 46 years after being resettled from Laos at a young age, she brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her work. Her dedication is rooted in the belief that meaningful relationships, inclusive leadership, and strong community partnerships are essential to creating lasting, positive change.
A proud wife, mother, and advocate for equity and inclusion, Phanida is fluent in English, Laotian, and Thai, and speaks some Spanish. She remains committed to empowering communities, strengthening access to resources, and helping build a more equitable and inclusive future for all Rhode Islanders.
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