Distinguished College of Science and Health Alumni Achievement Award

Ruth Williams-Brinkley

Ruth Williams-Brinkley

Ruth Williams-Brinkley is a distinguished healthcare leader and dedicated DePaul alumna who has exemplified the university’s Vincentian values throughout her impressive career. With over 40 years of executive experience in healthcare, she has held leadership roles across some of the nation’s largest health systems. Prior to her retirement, Ruth served as Mid-Atlantic regional president for Kaiser Permanente.

Throughout her career, Ruth leveraged her early professional experiences as a nurse as well as her role as a Black, female leader to advocate for health equity and the elimination of health disparities related to racial, economic, and environmental inequities. She has worked to improve access to quality care, especially for those in underserved communities. As an executive, she also sought to shape a more diverse and inclusive workforce in every organization she has led. Ruth’s commitment to improving health outcomes and ensuring health equity for all has remained central to her work, as she continues to prioritize the dignity and well-being of others in her leadership.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ruth has remained deeply connected to DePaul University, embodying the spirit of service and dedication that defines the institution. She is a former member of the School of Nursing Advisory Board and has returned for a second term on DePaul’s Board of Trustees. Ruth has also established a scholarship in the College of Science and Health to support nursing students who demonstrate financial need, with a preference for students of color and those from underrepresented populations. Her commitment to education and fostering the next generation of healthcare leaders is an extension of her lifelong dedication to improving the health and well-being of diverse communities.

Ruth’s leadership and influence have been widely recognized. She has been recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Leaders in Healthcare, one of the Top 25 Women in Healthcare and one of the Top 25 Minority Executives in Healthcare, as well as one of Becker’s Most admired CEOs in Healthcare, a testament to her impact in the industry. She also serves on several boards, including Travere Therapeutics, Natera, Inc., the University of Phoenix, and Allina Health. Ruth is an executive coach who uses her executive experience in healthcare and related industries to support and guide leaders in enhancing their personal and professional effectiveness. A proud DePaul alumna, Ruth holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing from the university, and her legacy of leadership continues to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.