5 UI Health Leaders Named to Crain’s ‘Notable’ Lists
Thursday, April 16, 2026
Each year, Crain’s Chicago Business recognizes Notable Leaders in Health Care and Notable Leaders in Health Care Technology — professionals whose work strengthens Chicago through innovation, service, and leadership.
In 2025–26, five leaders across UI Health — spanning the University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics, College of Medicine, and Mile Square Health Center — were honored as Crain’s Notable Leaders across our Hospital & Clinics, Cancer Center, Mile Square Health Center, and College of Medicine — each contributing in meaningful and distinct ways.
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/recognitions/notable/leaders-health-care/2026/
Dr. Jonathan Radosta, Notable Leader in Health Care
Chief Medical Officer, University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics
As the chief medical officer for UI Health, Dr. Radosta tackles the challenges of improving quality, safety, and outcomes for a diverse patient population. In his role as assistant vice chancellor for medical liability, he manages risks related to medical malpractice and other legal issues. His primary focus as a physician is to enhance patient care, improve satisfaction, and optimize performance.
As co-chief medical information officer, Dr. Radosta spearheaded the Epic implementation, improving patient experience and clinical workflows with a unified electronic health record. He also established UI Health’s post-COVID clinic for patients with long-term COVID-19 effects and conducts research to improve public health measures.
Dr. Tiesa Hughes-Dillard, Notable Leader in Health Care
Chief Nursing Officer, University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics
Dr. Hughes-Dillard became the chief nursing officer in 2022, making history as the first Black executive in this role.
Under her leadership, UI Health earned its first Magnet Recognition in 2025, showcasing her commitment to professional nursing practice and fostering an inclusive environment. In the same year, she was honored as the Illinois Nurses’ Foundation Nurse of the Year.
Dr. Shikha Jain, Notable Leader in Health Care
Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Associate Director, Oncology Communications & Digital Innovation, University of Illinois Cancer Center
Dr. Jain oversees cancer communications, research translation, and public engagement. She directs multidisciplinary clinical, research, and administrative teams to promote evidence-based cancer education and ensure workforce sustainability.
She also serves as the GI oncology lead and oversees institutional initiatives that support the Cancer Center’s work. Notably, she scaled Women in Medicine® into a nationally recognized organization, built a sustainable nonprofit and expanded its reach to over 7,000 clinicians. Additionally, she launched the VERITAS Research Lab and secured NIH R01 funding for leadership initiatives.
Karriem Watson, Notable Leader in Health Care
Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director, Mile Square Health Center
Watson is a researcher, educator, and community advocate focused on health equity. In 2024, he became the executive director of Mile Square Health Center, part of UI Health’s Federally Qualified Health Center network.
Under his leadership, Mile Square aims to expand its community impact and address social determinants of health. Watson’s career has centered on cancer disparities and promoting early detection in underserved communities. In his first year as CEO, he implemented a growth strategy to ensure access to essential care while enhancing behavioral health services.
Dr. David Chestek, Notable Leader in Health Care Technology
Chief Medical Information Officer, University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics
Dr. Chestek leads a team of 35 physician super users and information officers in managing UI Health’s electronic health record system, focusing on efficiency and data integrity. He has directed electronic health record and AI governance efforts, including assessments for fair, useful, and reliable AI models.
Recently, Dr. Chestek conducted a pilot study comparing two ambient listening products at UI Health involving faculty and residents. The study demonstrated enhanced outpatient documentation and greater satisfaction among patients and physicians, guiding a comprehensive organizational strategy for ambient listening technologies.
