Five leaders from the University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences System (UI Health) were named to Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leaders in Health Care and Notable Leaders in Health Care Technology lists, according to an announcement on April 16. The recognition highlights their work across the University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics, College of Medicine, and Mile Square Health Center.
The awards are given each year to professionals whose contributions advance health care innovation, service, and leadership in Chicago. This recognition reflects UI Health’s ongoing efforts to promote health equity and social responsibility through its services and research, according to the official website.
Dr. Jonathan Radosta was honored as a Notable Leader in Health Care for his role as chief medical officer at UI Health. He leads initiatives aimed at improving quality, safety, patient outcomes, and satisfaction. As co-chief medical information officer, he led the implementation of a unified electronic health record system. Dr. Radosta also established a post-COVID clinic for patients with long-term effects.
Dr. Tiesa Hughes-Dillard became chief nursing officer in 2022—the first Black executive in this position—and guided UI Health to its first Magnet Recognition for nursing practices in 2025. She was also named Illinois Nurses’ Foundation Nurse of the Year that same year.
Other honorees include Dr. Shikha Jain for her leadership in cancer communications and education; Karriem Watson for expanding access at Mile Square Health Center; and Dr. David Chestek for advancing electronic health record technology and piloting ambient listening products among faculty and residents.
The University of Illinois Hospital Chicago features a major facility with 451 beds, more than 30 outpatient clinics, and 11 community health centers according to the official website. It serves as the clinical arm of the University of Illinois Chicago according to the official website.
Looking ahead, UI Health seeks to enhance overall health through clinical services, education, research initiatives such as those led by these honorees—and continued community engagement efforts according to the official website.
