News and Announcements

Ada Bair (left) and Tracy Warner (right)

CARTHAGE, IL— The Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network (ICAHN) honored Ada Bair, Memorial Hospital – Carthage CEO with its first-ever Pat Schou Legacy of Leadership Award at its Annual Conference held November 14 at the I-Hotel and Conference Center, Champaign. 

Named for former ICAHN CEO Pat Schou, the award recognizes an individual who demonstrates extraordinary contributions to an ICAHN member hospital and a global contribution to rural health. 

Ada is known for her unwavering dedication to patients, staff, and rural healthcare. She has transformed the health system into a nurturing environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued. As a trailblazer, she tirelessly advocates for patient-centered care, implementing groundbreaking programs that prioritize emotional and physical well-being. 

Her infectious energy and visionary leadership have galvanized her team, fostering a culture of unity, collaboration, and service excellence. Under Ada’s guidance, Memorial Hospital has not only improved patient outcomes, but has also been nominated for awards nationwide, proving that empathy and innovation can go hand in hand in the pursuit of healing. 

Ada strives to be curious before critical and always sees things with her glass half-full, erring on the side of optimism. Her advocacy for rural healthcare is another cornerstone of her leadership. She has cultivated strong relationships with legislators at both local and national levels, passionately lobbying for the needs of rural health.  

Her collaboration with the Illinois Health and Hospital Association ensures that local voices are heard in broader conversations about healthcare policy. Her strategic foresight led Memorial Hospital to join ICAHN and IRRCO early on, where she has remained an active participant and board member.  

Through these efforts, Ada has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to enhancing rural healthcare and community well-being, making her an invaluable asset to both the hospital and the broader Hancock County community. 

In 2023, Memorial Hospital was selected as an NRHA Outstanding Rural Health Organization, a testament to Ada’s vision and leadership. Ada’s initiatives have extended beyond traditional healthcare services. Ada’s transformative leadership has truly reshaped Memorial Hospital into a vital healthcare resource for the community. 

Her legacy is marked by a transformative impact on healthcare delivery, community engagement, and employee morale, making her a truly remarkable leader in the field. 

Located in Princeton, IL, ICAHN is a network of 60 small, rural hospitals dedicated to strengthening the operations of its member hospitals through collaboration. The organization is composed of Illinois hospitals who have earned critical access hospital designation by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and is recognized nationally for its work with rural healthcare, administering several state, federal, and private healthcare programs.