HSHS announces new leadership roles at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Highland
Chris Klay
HSHS has announced the appointment of Chris Klay, president and CEO of HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, Ill., to serve in an additional leadership role as president and CEO of HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland, Ill.
Klay succeeds John Ludwig, who is stepping away from his role due to his health.
“I am honored to be succeeding John in this role,” shared Klay. “Under his leadership, St. Joseph’s has excelled locally and nationally in patient experience, patient safety, and financial performance. I am excited to serve the patients in the Highland community and support the colleagues of St. Joseph’s as we continue to deliver high-quality health care to all,” added Klay.
Teresa Cornelius
Klay has served as president and CEO of St. Elizabeth’s since May 2022. Prior to his current role at St. Elizabeth’s, Klay served as president and CEO of HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese. He joined HSHS in 2009 as the director of rehabilitation services for HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Chippewa Falls and was promoted to also lead the service line at HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire.
In addition, Teresa Cornelius, DNP, RN, CENP, will begin serving as chief operating officer (COO) at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland as well as continue her role as chief nursing officer (CNO). Cornelius has been with HSHS since 2006 and was most recently serving as interim CEO at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland. She started her nursing career as a registered nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Prior to her position as CNO, Cornelius served as the director of clinical operations, inpatient nurse manager and charge nurse, gaining progressive leadership experience in each role.
