NORTHWEST INDIANA | Longtime healthcare leader Janice Ryba, CEO of St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart, has earned the highest award given to a hospital CEO by the Indiana Hospital Association (IHA).
At its annual meeting on Nov. 14 in Indianapolis, the association that represents 176 hospital members across the state, awarded Ryba with the prestigious 2024 Distinguished Service Award.
The award is presented each year to an Indiana hospital CEO who has made outstanding contributions to the organization, its patients, the community and the healthcare profession, according to the IHA.
“I am honored and humbled to receive this award,” Ryba said. “Thank you to the IHA and to our entire team of dedicated, skilled healthcare providers who are committed to serve patients and each other.”
Ryba started her career as a laboratory medical technologist and ascended professionally. She has led St. Mary Medical Center as CEO since 2007. Under her guidance, the hospital has expanded services while maintaining high-quality care and recruiting a strong, skilled workforce.
Ryba has established programs to address health concerns, such as the home paramedic program and Continuum of Care Clinic, which reduces readmissions and helps keep patients safe at home. She has led St. Mary Medical Center in accruing accreditations and achievements, ensuring that patients don’t have to travel far for advanced procedures.
“Time and again, Janice has proven herself as a strong leader with a clear vision,” said Donald P. Fesko, CEO and president of Powers Health. “She is an advocate for the residents of Northwest Indiana, ensuring they have access to excellent healthcare services.”
Under Ryba’s leadership, St. Mary Medical Center is recognized for its Advanced Hip and Knee Replacement Services; Breast Imaging Center and High-risk Breast Clinic; a Center of Excellence for Robotic Surgery; a Primary Stroke Center; and American Heart/Stroke Association Gold and Gold Plus status.
The hospital also aligns with high schools and institutes of higher education to foster workforce development. With grant funding, St. Mary Medical Center works with Meals on Wheels to provide meal stipends to patients facing food insecurity. Its Ask-The-Nurse program connects neighbors with a healthcare professional who can answer questions at no cost and without an appointment.
