Kennedy Krieger Institute Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Kennedy Krieger Institute has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, administration, medical affairs, and quality.

Dedicated to advancing care, Kennedy Krieger Institute focuses on improving the lives of children and adolescents with complex neurological and musculoskeletal conditions through research and clinical services.

Leadership Roles at Kennedy Krieger Institute

  • Chief Executive Officer - Courtney Kennedy
  • Vice President, Administration & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff - Elisa Delia
  • Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives - Elisa Mintz
  • Chief Medical Officer - Michael Johnston
  • Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional - Michelle Melicosta
  • Courtney Kennedy - Chief Executive Officer

    Courtney Kennedy, the Chief Executive Officer at Kennedy Krieger Institute, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Overseeing all facets of the institute's mission, Courtney Kennedy ensures the advancement of research and clinical services aimed at improving the lives of children and adolescents with disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and musculoskeletal system. This leadership position involves fostering innovation, driving growth, and maintaining the institute's commitment to excellence in patient care and scientific discovery. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, and ensuring the long-term sustainability and impact of Kennedy Krieger Institute's programs across the greater Baltimore/Washington, D.C. region and beyond. Courtney Kennedy guides the organization's response to evolving healthcare landscapes and research breakthroughs.

    Elisa Delia - Vice President, Administration & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff

    Elisa Delia, the Vice President, Administration & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff at Kennedy Krieger Institute, manages critical administrative functions and spearheads strategic planning efforts. Elisa Delia ensures operational efficiency and alignment across departments, supporting the institute's core mission of enhancing care for children and adolescents with neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. This role involves close collaboration with the Chief Executive Officer and other senior leaders to translate strategic objectives into actionable plans. The Vice President, Administration & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff oversees key initiatives that drive organizational development and improve service delivery. Elisa Delia's oversight includes resource management and process optimization, directly contributing to the institute's capacity to conduct groundbreaking research and provide specialized clinical services. The focus remains on strengthening the institute's infrastructure to support its vital work.

    Elisa Mintz - Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives

    Elisa Mintz, the Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives at Kennedy Krieger Institute, drives key strategic projects and provides executive support to leadership. Elisa Mintz focuses on enhancing the institute's operational effectiveness and advancing its mission to serve children and adolescents with brain, spinal cord, and musculoskeletal disorders. This position involves coordinating cross-functional teams, managing complex projects, and ensuring seamless execution of strategic priorities. The Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and communication throughout the organization. Elisa Mintz's contributions are essential for optimizing resource utilization and driving innovation in both research and clinical practice. The strategic initiatives overseen by Elisa Mintz are designed to expand the institute's reach and impact in the greater Baltimore/Washington, D.C. region.

    Michael Johnston - Chief Medical Officer

    Michael Johnston, the Chief Medical Officer at Kennedy Krieger Institute, leads the clinical strategy and medical operations, ensuring the highest standards of patient care. Michael Johnston oversees all aspects of medical services, focusing on the treatment and rehabilitation of children and adolescents with disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and musculoskeletal system. This critical role involves guiding clinical research initiatives, fostering advancements in medical treatments, and ensuring compliance with all healthcare regulations. The Chief Medical Officer works closely with the executive team to integrate research findings into clinical practice, thereby enhancing patient outcomes. Michael Johnston's leadership ensures that Kennedy Krieger Institute remains at the forefront of pediatric neurological and musculoskeletal care, driving excellence in diagnosis, therapy, and long-term management for patients.

    Michelle Melicosta - Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional

    Michelle Melicosta, the Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional at Kennedy Krieger Institute, champions initiatives focused on enhancing patient safety and clinical quality. Michelle Melicosta directs programs designed to ensure the highest level of care for children and adolescents with neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. This multifaceted role involves rigorous oversight of quality assurance processes, risk management, and professional affairs within the medical departments. The Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional collaborates with clinical teams to implement best practices and drive continuous improvement in patient outcomes. Michelle Melicosta's dedication to safety and quality is fundamental to Kennedy Krieger Institute's commitment to providing exceptional, evidence-based medical services. This leadership ensures adherence to stringent standards across all patient interactions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Kennedy Krieger Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Kennedy Krieger Institute?
    Kennedy Krieger Institute is led by Courtney Kennedy (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Elisa Delia (Vice President, Administration & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff) and Elisa Mintz (Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives).
    Who is part of Kennedy Krieger Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of Kennedy Krieger Institute includes leaders such as Courtney Kennedy (Chief Executive Officer), Elisa Delia (Vice President, Administration & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff), Elisa Mintz (Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Kennedy Krieger Institute have?
    Kennedy Krieger Institute has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Kennedy Krieger Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Kennedy Krieger Institute includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Vice President, Administration & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff, Vice President and Chief of Staff and Strategic Initiatives, Chief Medical Officer, Associate Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Quality & Patient Safety & Affairs Professional.