University of Michigan Health names new chief nurse executive

Julie Ishak, R.N., M.S.N., has been selected as the new chief nurse executive for University of Michigan Health, effective March 1. Currently, Ishak serves as the chief nursing officer for ambulatory care.

In her new role, she will provide strategic direction and guidance for the ongoing growth and evolution of U-M Health’s nursing practice. She will work closely with nursing and leadership teams across the adult hospitals, children's and women's hospitals and ambulatory care to drive innovations and best practices that support the health system’s strategic priorities. 

She will also continue to support U-M Health's nursing Magnet program designation and leading the organization’s efforts to maintain the highest standards for nursing practice.

Ishak has been chief nursing officer for ambulatory care since January 2020, first as interim and then selected for the permanent role in July 2020. Prior to that, she served as the associate chief nursing officer for the U-M Medical Group.

Before joining Michigan Medicine, Ishak spent 18 years in progressive leadership roles in the inpatient setting, both in operations and nursing. Her prior roles include vice president, Neuroscience Center of Excellence, and director of nursing for critical care, system renal services, women’s health and respiratory care at Ascension Michigan.

She is also a board-certified adult nurse practitioner, certified in executive nursing practice through the American Organization of Nurse Leaders, and actively pursuing a doctor of nursing practice from Wayne State University.