Saint Joseph Health System Names New Chief Nursing Officer
October 23, 2025
Contact:
Tom VanNevel
Public Relations Manager
574-335-4566, office
574-404-1048, cell
Thomas.VanNevel@sjrmc.com
Mishawaka, Ind. — Tommy Starr, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, who has served as interim chief nursing officer (CNO) for Saint Joseph Health System (SJHS) since June 2025, has officially been named CNO for SJHS, effective October 6, 2025.
A highly visible and collaborative leader, Tommy has a strong track record of building high-performing teams, advancing clinical outcomes and fostering professional governance. Notably, Tommy played a pivotal role in Loyola Medicine’s successful fourth ANCC Magnet® re-designation in 2024, an elite recognition of nursing excellence. At Rush University Medical Center, he contributed to multiple Magnet® designations as both a clinical nurse and leader.
Tommy currently serves as president of the Illinois Organization of Nurse Leaders and is a member of the Nominations Committee for the American Organization of Nurse Leaders. He also held leadership roles with the Rush University Alumni Association, serving as president in 2023 and past president in 2024. He earned both his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Clinical Nursing Leadership from Rush University. He holds national certifications as a Nurse Executive (NEA-BC), Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN).
“Tommy has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision and a deep commitment to nursing excellence throughout his time as interim CNO,” said Chris Karam, president of Saint Joseph Health System. “His passion for advancing patient care and empowering our nursing teams makes him the ideal leader to guide us forward. We are thrilled to officially welcome him into this role.”