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Michael J. Tilstra serves as Chief Executive Officer of Iroquois Memorial Hospital, bringing more than 30 years of leadership experience in business administration, community development, and public service. A lifelong resident of Iroquois County, Tilstra has deep roots in the community and a strong commitment to ensuring access to quality healthcare for the region.
Tilstra was born at Iroquois Memorial Hospital and raised in the area. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Western Illinois University and later completed his Master of Business Administration from Olivet Nazarene University. After completing his education, he chose to remain in the area and build his career serving the community that helped shape him.
Throughout his career, Tilstra has held numerous leadership roles in local organizations and public service. He spent more than two decades in business administration at Nexus–Onarga Academy and served 16 years as Village President of Onarga. His commitment to community leadership also includes service as Chamber President, Commissioner for the Onarga Fire Protection District, Federated Bank Trustee, and as a member of the Iroquois Development Association Board.
Tilstra is passionate about community engagement, economic development, and strengthening the organizations that support quality of life in Iroquois County. As Chief Executive Officer, he is dedicated to advancing Iroquois Memorial Hospital’s mission, supporting long-term growth, and ensuring high-quality care remains close to home for the communities the hospital serves.
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Michelle Fairley, RN, serves as Vice President of Patient Health at Iroquois Memorial Hospital, bringing more than 30 years of nursing experience and more than 20 years of healthcare leadership, hospital operations, clinical services, and patient care. A registered nurse by background, Fairley has served in a wide range of leadership roles at IMH and has developed a strong understanding of the clinical and operational needs of a rural healthcare organization.
Throughout her career at Iroquois Memorial Hospital, Fairley has held leadership positions including Vice President of Clinics Patient Health, CNO/VP of Customer Care, Vice President over Lab, X-ray, Pharmacy, Home Health and Hospice, Director of Surgical Services, and Director of Progressive Care. Her experience spans inpatient care, outpatient services, and ancillary departments including infection control, quality control, employee health, dietary, and education, giving her broad knowledge of hospital operations and the coordination required to support high-quality care across the organization.
Fairley has played an important role in strengthening services, supporting staff, and advancing initiatives that improve care for patients and families in the communities IMH serves. She is known for her collaborative leadership style, her focus on quality and patient-centered care, and her commitment to building strong teams and improving systems that support long-term organizational success.
As Vice President of Patient Health, Fairley is dedicated to advancing services, supporting operational excellence, and helping ensure Iroquois Memorial Hospital continues to meet the needs of the communities it serves. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to compassionate care, strong clinical operations, and access to high-quality healthcare close to home.
