The Childrens Institute Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Childrens Institute has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, clinical operations, organizational efficiency, and market outreach.

Committed to pediatric excellence, The Childrens Institute advances specialized care for children with complex needs while fostering inclusive family support systems across Western Pennsylvania and beyond.

Leadership Roles at The Childrens Institute

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - David Miles
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Johanna Vidal-Phelan
  • Chief Operating Officer - Shawn Shuman
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Barry Shepard
  • David Miles - President & Chief Executive Officer

    David Miles, the President & Chief Executive Officer at The Childrens Institute, directs the overarching strategic vision for pediatric healthcare delivery. Focusing on long-term institutional sustainability, the President & Chief Executive Officer manages relationships with the Board to ensure alignment with the nonprofit mission. David Miles architects high-level partnerships across the healthcare sector to expand access for children with special needs. By prioritizing fiscal health and operational integrity, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the standard of care established in 1902. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while driving growth initiatives throughout Western Pennsylvania. Through consistent oversight of organizational goals, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the resources necessary for clinical innovation. Ultimately, the President & Chief Executive Officer champions the needs of families, ensuring the organization remains a cornerstone of pediatric support within the United States.

    Johanna Vidal-Phelan - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Johanna Vidal-Phelan, the President & Chief Executive Officer at The Childrens Institute, oversees clinical excellence and medical program development. Concentrating on the integration of specialized pediatric services, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives evidence-based care models for children with complex medical conditions. Johanna Vidal-Phelan evaluates clinical outcomes to refine treatment protocols and improve patient quality of life. By collaborating with medical staff and department heads, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that clinical operations meet the highest safety standards. This leadership role involves expanding the reach of specialized programs to underserved populations across the region. Through rigorous analysis of healthcare trends, the President & Chief Executive Officer adapts service delivery to meet evolving patient requirements. Ultimately, the President & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the clinical foundation of the organization, ensuring that every child receives comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to individual developmental needs.

    Shawn Shuman - Chief Operating Officer

    Shawn Shuman, the Chief Operating Officer at The Childrens Institute, manages the daily administrative functions and internal infrastructure required for seamless hospital operations. Overseeing facility management and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that clinical teams possess the tools necessary for effective patient care. Shawn Shuman optimizes internal workflows to increase efficiency across all departments, reducing administrative burdens on medical staff. By streamlining supply chain logistics and facility maintenance, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of providing high-quality pediatric services. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to execute operational improvements that enhance the patient experience. Through careful monitoring of performance metrics, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for process refinement. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the operational stability of the organization, allowing clinical providers to focus entirely on the specialized needs of children and their families.

    Barry Shepard - Chief Marketing Officer

    Barry Shepard, the Chief Marketing Officer at The Childrens Institute, directs brand strategy and public engagement initiatives to increase awareness of pediatric services. Developing comprehensive communication campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer highlights the impact of specialized care on children and families throughout Western Pennsylvania. Barry Shepard manages external relations and community outreach to foster strong connections with donors, partners, and the public. By analyzing market data, the Chief Marketing Officer identifies key opportunities for growth and service promotion. This leadership role involves crafting messaging that resonates with stakeholders while maintaining the reputation of the organization. Through strategic digital and traditional media efforts, the Chief Marketing Officer expands the visibility of the nonprofit mission. Ultimately, the Chief Marketing Officer drives engagement and support, ensuring that the organization remains a recognized leader in pediatric healthcare and family advocacy within the United States.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Childrens Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Childrens Institute?
    The Childrens Institute is led by David Miles (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Johanna Vidal-Phelan (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Shawn Shuman (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of The Childrens Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Childrens Institute includes leaders such as David Miles (President & Chief Executive Officer), Johanna Vidal-Phelan (President & Chief Executive Officer), Shawn Shuman (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Childrens Institute have?
    The Childrens Institute has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Childrens Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Childrens Institute includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.