Highly regarded in the healthcare industry nationally, Thomas J. Strauss is president & CEO of the Sisters of Charity Health System. Headquartered in Cleveland, the health system includes two Catholic hospitals, two elder care facilities, three grantmaking foundations, and five outreach organizations in Ohio and South Carolina.
Tom joined the Sisters of Charity Health System in January 2017 from CEO Advisory Network, where he was the managing member and co-founder. Consisting of five highly accomplished healthcare leaders who provide consulting services locally and nationally, CEO Advisory Network is affiliated with DHG Healthcare, which was ranked by Modern Healthcare as one of the top ten private consulting firms nationally.
Tom is the former president & CEO of Summa Health System. During his 15 year tenure and under his leadership, Summa grew into a leading integrated healthcare system generating a $2.86 billion economic impact, making it the largest employer in all five counties it serves. Tom’s strategic vision enabled Summa to grow through new ventures, service lines and acquisitions. A builder of winning, engaged teams with his servant leader management style, his vision extended beyond Summa and into the community where he was a member and chaired many boards. He also developed Centers for Health Equity at New Seasons to provide care to the underserved population.
Prior to Summa Health System, Tom spent ten years in leadership roles at Meridia Cleveland Clinic, where he successfully established new ventures, turned around programs and services, and increased market share. In addition, he worked at Baxter Healthcare and was a trendsetter in home therapy.
Tom received his Doctor of Pharmacy and his Bachelor of Science both from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. Tom has dedicated his time as board chair at the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce, and as a board member at Premier, Austen BioInnovation Institute, United Way of Summit County, TeamNEO, BioEnterprise and Akron Tomorrow. He is the recipient of the Outstanding Fundraiser Award, Community Service Award, Northeast Ohio Business Hall of Fame and was named Nonprofit Executive of the Year in the 2008 Medical Mutual Pillar Awards for Community Service.