Letter from the IOMC 2025-2026 IOMC President Neli Vazquez Rowland

A MESSAGE TO OUR FELLOWS and COLLEAGUES 

Dear Fellows and Colleagues,

Welcome to the 110th Anniversary of the Institute of Medicine of Chicago. It is both a profound honor and a humbling responsibility to serve as your President during this historic year. As we gather to celebrate more than a century of service, research, and impact, I am deeply moved by the collective strength, wisdom, and dedication represented in this room. You are the everyday heroes who make health happen.

This year marks more than just a milestone—it is a turning point. We stand at a pivotal moment in our nation’s health journey. As global health challenges escalate and communities call for more integrated, equitable, and effective approaches, our shared mission could not be more urgent.

As a lifelong advocate, social entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader, I have spent nearly 30 years working to heal the root causes of homelessness, poverty, and addiction—demonstrating the powerful impact of connecting clinical care with real-world solutions, from housing and nutrition to policy reform. That is the spirit I bring to this role.

This year, we will lean into our roots—remembering IOMC’s early leadership in addressing homelessness—and look forward with a renewed commitment to bridging public health and institutional health. We will explore the critical role of holistic approaches as essential to long-term well-being and success.

Health is not only about individual well-being—it is the foundation for families, communities, and employers alike. A healthy workforce is key to productivity, cost-effectiveness, and safety. When we address the physical and mental health challenges that often contribute to instability, crime, and safety issues, we strengthen the social fabric of our communities. Together, we can influence a paradigm shift—one that recognizes the vital connection between health and all facets of a thriving society.

We are proud to be part of taking the helm and honoring healthcare leaders who represent some of Chicago’s leading healthcare professionals in their respective fields—dedicated to the betterment of a healthier people from every corner of our communities. Tonight, we also stand in deep gratitude for the legacy of past Presidents, Board Members, and honorees who paved the way, each contributing to a rich tapestry of leadership, service, and innovation that continues to inspire us today.

Let’s seize this moment to elevate our work, shape the future of public health, and make Illinois and Chicago a national model of innovation, inclusion, and well-being.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for all you do. I’m honored to walk alongside you this year.

With deep gratitude,

Neli Vazquez Rowland

2025-2026 President 

Institute of Medicine of Chicago