A New Chapter: Dr. Nathan Hagstrom to Depart Reilly Children's Hospital for Midwest Leadership Role

In a significant announcement that marks a new chapter for pediatric care in the Lehigh Valley, Dr. Nathan Hagstrom, the visionary founding president of Reilly Children's Hospital at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), will step down from his role at the end of October 2025. Dr. Hagstrom is set to embark on a new professional journey, accepting a senior leadership position at a prominent children's hospital in the Midwest, a move driven by a desire to be closer to family.

Dr.

Hagstrom's departure concludes a pivotal tenure during which he spearheaded the establishment and growth of Reilly Children's Hospital. Since its inception in 2021, he has been instrumental in transforming the vision of a dedicated children's hospital for the region into a vibrant reality. Under his dynamic leadership, Reilly Children's Hospital rapidly evolved, becoming a beacon of specialized pediatric care and a critical resource for families across the community.

Reflecting on his impactful contributions, Brian Nester, LVHN's President and Chief Executive Officer, lauded Dr.

Hagstrom as a "gifted leader." Nester emphasized the profound positive influence Dr. Hagstrom had on the institution, stating that his dedication laid a robust foundation for the hospital's future. His efforts were not just about creating a facility, but about cultivating an environment where cutting-edge pediatric services could flourish and reach those who needed them most.

Throughout his time at LVHN, Dr.

Hagstrom championed the expansion of a comprehensive array of pediatric services. This included the significant growth of specialty care programs, the enhancement of surgical capabilities tailored for young patients, and the crucial integration of mental health services designed specifically for children and adolescents.

These initiatives have dramatically improved access to high-quality, specialized care, directly impacting countless young lives and their families.

The establishment of Reilly Children's Hospital in 2021 was a landmark achievement, marking the creation of the Lehigh Valley's first truly dedicated children's hospital.

Dr. Hagstrom's strategic guidance and unwavering commitment were central to this monumental undertaking, ensuring that children in the region received world-class care without needing to travel long distances.

As Dr. Hagstrom prepares for his transition, LVHN has confirmed that a comprehensive national search will commence immediately to identify a successor.

The aim is to find an equally visionary leader who can build upon the strong foundation Dr. Hagstrom has meticulously crafted and continue the hospital's mission of providing exceptional care to the region's youngest patients. While his presence will be deeply missed, the legacy of his leadership will undoubtedly continue to inspire the hospital's ongoing commitment to pediatric excellence.