Kennedy Krieger Institute Executive and Leadership Team

Courtney Kennedy, the Chief Executive Officer at Kennedy Krieger Institute, directs the overarching organizational strategy and long-term vision for this internationally recognized institution. Kennedy oversees the integration of inpatient, day hospital, and community-based services to ensure consistent care standards for children and adults with neurological needs. By aligning administrative functions with clinical goals, the Chief Executive Officer fosters an environment conducive to medical innovation and patient-centered outcomes. Courtney Kennedy maintains active collaboration with the Board to secure resources for translational research and specialized clinical programs. This leadership role involves managing complex institutional growth while maintaining the high quality of care associated with the institute. Through rigorous oversight of operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the institute remains a leader in treating developmental disorders. Kennedy drives the expansion of home and community services, broadening the reach of the organization across diverse patient populations.

Bradley Schlaggar, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Kennedy Krieger Institute, architects the scientific and clinical trajectory of the organization. Schlaggar manages the interdisciplinary team model, ensuring that research findings translate directly into improved patient care for individuals with autism, brain injury, and cerebral palsy. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Schlaggar coordinates with academic partners to advance laboratory research and clinical trials for rare diseases. This role requires balancing high-level medical research initiatives with the practical demands of a large-scale healthcare provider. Bradley Schlaggar drives the institute's commitment to excellence in neurological rehabilitation, setting benchmarks for clinical performance. By fostering a culture of inquiry and evidence-based practice, the President & Chief Executive Officer supports the development of new therapeutic interventions. Schlaggar oversees the strategic alignment of clinical departments, ensuring that the institute addresses the complex needs of patients through specialized, multidisciplinary care pathways.

Elisa Delia, the Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff at Kennedy Krieger Institute, manages internal operations and facilitates communication across the executive leadership team. Delia coordinates the execution of institutional priorities, ensuring that administrative processes support the delivery of high-quality rehabilitative services. As the Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff, Delia optimizes organizational workflows to enhance the efficiency of outpatient clinics and community programs. This leadership position involves managing cross-departmental projects that impact the daily operations of the institute. Elisa Delia drives the implementation of strategic policies that align with the mission of supporting individuals with developmental needs. By streamlining communication between clinical and administrative staff, the Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff ensures that the institute maintains operational excellence. Delia monitors key performance indicators to track the success of internal initiatives, providing the necessary support to maintain the institute's status as a premier healthcare provider.

Elisa Mintz, the Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives at Kennedy Krieger Institute, designs and executes long-term growth plans for the organization. Mintz identifies emerging opportunities in neurological care and translates these into actionable strategic initiatives. As the Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives, Mintz manages the planning phases for new clinical programs and community outreach efforts. This role involves analyzing market trends to ensure the institute remains at the forefront of rehabilitative medicine. Elisa Mintz drives the development of partnerships that expand the institute's capacity to serve patients with rare diseases. By overseeing the execution of complex projects, the Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives ensures that the organization meets its ambitious goals for patient care and research. Mintz coordinates with other leaders to integrate new initiatives into the existing framework, maintaining the institute's reputation for innovation and specialized treatment.

Michael Johnston, the Chief Medical Officer at Kennedy Krieger Institute, oversees the clinical standards and medical practices across all inpatient and outpatient facilities. Johnston directs the medical staff, ensuring that every patient receives individualized treatment for neurological and developmental disorders. As the Chief Medical Officer, Johnston establishes protocols for clinical care and monitors the effectiveness of rehabilitative programs. This leadership role involves collaborating with department heads to maintain high standards of medical excellence and patient safety. Michael Johnston drives the integration of new medical technologies into the institute's treatment models, enhancing the quality of care for children and adults. By providing clinical guidance, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that the institute's interdisciplinary teams function effectively. Johnston manages the medical oversight of complex cases, ensuring that the institute remains a trusted resource for families seeking specialized care for conditions like cerebral palsy and brain injury.

Michelle Melicosta, the Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional at Kennedy Krieger Institute, manages the rigorous standards of patient safety and clinical quality. Melicosta architects the systems that monitor medical outcomes and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations. As the Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional, Melicosta leads initiatives to reduce clinical risks and improve the overall patient experience. This role involves analyzing data from clinical programs to identify areas for improvement in care delivery. Michelle Melicosta drives the implementation of safety protocols that protect patients and staff across all institute locations. By fostering a culture of accountability, the Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional ensures that the institute maintains its commitment to excellence. Melicosta coordinates with medical teams to refine treatment processes, ensuring that every patient receives safe, high-quality care.