URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — On Thursday, Carle Health announced that Kurt Leifheit, JD, MS, would step into the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer starting January 1, 2026. Leifheit currently serves as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, and has been a Corporate Integrity Officer since joining Carle Health in 2011.

Leifheit brings experience in health law, regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and litigation. His strategic vision and servant leadership have been key in advancing Carle Health’s mission, including guiding the launch of Carle Illinois College of Medicine and leading multiple hospital integration efforts that have expanded the organization’s growth and impact in the region.

 Carle Health CEO and president James Leonard, MD, said: “We are confident in Kurt’s capabilities as he steps into this executive leadership role. His deep expertise in health law and his proven strategic leadership has been instrumental in shaping our organization and enhancing our ability to serve our communities. Kurt’s appointment marks an important step as we continue to innovate and evolve to meet the needs of those we serve for years to come.”

Reflecting on his new role, Leifheit said, “Health systems nationwide are navigating rapid changes in care delivery models and evolving regulatory requirements. I am honored to continue supporting Carle Health’s evolution and its commitment to serving patients and families throughout central Illinois.”

Leifheit holds a master’s degree in kinesiology/community health from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Juris Doctor from Loyola University Chicago School of Law, where he was a fellow at the Beazley Institute for Health Law and Policy. Before joining Carle Health, he practiced law at Hinshaw & Culbertson, LLP in Chicago, advising hospitals and physicians on healthcare transactional and regulatory matters.