RUSH Copley is proud to announce the appointment of Christine Sobek, EdD, as the new chair of the board of directors. Sobek, who currently serves as vice chair of the hospital’s board, brings a wealth of experience and a strong background in leadership to her new role.
Sobek's impressive career includes a remarkable 21-year tenure as the president of Waubonsee Community College where she demonstrated outstanding leadership in overseeing the college's diverse academic operations. This included managing over 14,000 students annually across four permanent campuses within the expansive 624-square-mile college district, along with a comprehensive virtual and online learning program.
Sobek holds a doctoral degree from Northern Illinois University, a master's degree from Michigan State University, and a bachelor's degree with highest distinction from Purdue University. She is a distinguished member of Phi Beta Kappa and an honorary member of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society.
Sobek has supported RUSH Copley since 2001 when she joined the governing board, and in 2002, she was elected to the hospital board, where she has been a member of the executive committee since 2010. Notably, Sobek's appointment marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to chair the RUSH Copley board in the hospital's 137-year history.
Stepping down from his role as chairman is Bruce Dienst, president of Norican North America and chief executive officer of Simpson Technologies Corporation. Dienst has been an invaluable member of RUSH Copley's leadership team since joining the board of governors in 1999. As chairman, he played a pivotal role during the challenging times brought about by the COVID pandemic, contributing to improved patient satisfaction and quality outcomes. His leadership was instrumental in promoting corporate and clinical integration with Rush University System for Health.
"I’m incredibly proud to welcome Christine Sobek as the new chair of the board of directors. Her dedication and leadership have been pivotal to RUSH Copley over the years,” said John Diederich, CEO of RUSH Copley. “I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Bruce Dienst, our outgoing chairman, for his unwavering commitment to the Medical Center during his tenure. His contributions are a testament to the excellence of our board."
Additionally, RUSH Copley will welcome two new board members.
Susana Rivera-Mills, PhD, the 14th president of Aurora University, is the first Latina to lead the university since its founding in 1893. Her previous role as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at Ball State University showcased her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as her innovative approach to academic initiatives and community partnerships. Rivera-Mills earned her degrees from the University of Iowa and the University of New Mexico, with a strong focus on Latino communities and online education.
Michael P. Smith, EdD, a 24-year veteran of School District 129, currently serves as assistant superintendent of human resources. Smith's extensive experience in education, ranging from elementary teaching to administrative leadership, brings valuable insights to the board. He holds degrees from Judson University and Aurora University, specializing in educational administration.
Both Rivera-Mills and Smith live in Aurora.
