Ryan Luginbuhl, Age 39
Director, Oncology Service Line, OSF HealthCare
Luginbuhl integrates the oncology program across the OSF Ministry through a clinical infrastructure that drives excellence. That includes creating and directing a system cancer research strategy from the ground up, developing and leading partnership discussions with external parties, developing transparent performance metrics, partnering with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in its BEAT Cancer Program, bringing novel therapies to central Illinois through Origin Commercial Ventures and the Translational Genomics Institute, and recruiting oncologists. He has been a strong supporter of the CancerIQ assessment tool that uses genetic testing to identify cancer risks, with more than 75,000 patients participating thus far.
“In his support of the Oncology Service Line, Ryan has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and a deep commitment to improving the lives of cancer patients,” said his nominator. “He has tirelessly worked to enhance the quality and accessibility of oncology services within our institution and the OSF Ministry, positively impacting both patients and their families. Ryan is a true servant leader.”
Meanwhile, “Ryan was instrumental in facilitating a collaboration with Origin to bring the Breakthrough Treatment Center to the new OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute opening in Spring 2024. This Center will provide individuals battling the more difficult-to-treat cancers access to the most promising medical breakthroughs, novel therapies and clinical trials from around the world.”
Outside of work, Luginbuhl is a coach in the Morton Youth Baseball Program and has been an advocate for the KBStrong Foundation.
Childhood ambition: “I wanted to be a professional fisherman or baseball player. I quickly found out both were not realistic!”
Advice to 20-year-old self: “To trust God through the progression of my career. Don’t worry!”
Unknown to colleagues: “I teach Bible class for 5th and 6th grade kids at my church.”
Bucket list priority: “To go on an Alaskan hunting and fishing trip.”
Best advice: “Nothing world-changing happens when your sights are on the most practical path forward.”
Motivating social issues: “The pervasive lack of unity in the country. People have difficulty in remaining peaceful while disagreeing on any issue, big or small. Respect and basic kindness seem to be lacking increasingly over time.”
Local inspiration: “Dr. Jim McGee. … He’s pioneered cancer treatment in Peoria by bringing the first radiotherapy to Peoria over 25 years ago and now is bringing flash capable Proton radiation therapy to Peoria.”
