Chad Dilley and Preston Becker Recognized as 2026 Catholic Health Association Tomorrow’s Leaders

Ascension St. Vincent proudly announces that Chad Dilley and Preston Becker have been recognized by the Catholic Health Association (CHA) as 2026 Tomorrow's Leaders. The national honor recognizes emerging leaders who exemplify the mission, values, and future of Catholic healthcare.

CHA's Tomorrow's Leaders Program encourages the promising young leaders of today to continue their careers in Catholic Health ministry. Each class consists of an impressive cadre of dedicated, high-performing individuals who already have demonstrated commitment to advancing the healing mission. The full list of honorees for this year's award can be found here

Chad Dilley

Chad Dilley, President of Ascension St. Vincent's Central Region (Indiana), leads culture, quality, safety, growth, and community relations of this 967-bed Level 1 Trauma Center, which includes Peyton Manning Children's Hospital, the Women and Infants Hospital, Lucas Family Brain and Spine Hospital, Stress Center, and Seton LTAC. With more than 15 years of healthcare leadership experience, he has directed over $370 million in strategic capital projects that strengthen access and long-term sustainability.

Under his leadership, Ascension St. Vincent Carmel earned Leapfrog "A" Hospital Safety Grades, recognition as one of Newsweek's "America's Best Maternity Hospitals," and multiple Healthgrades awards for patient safety, outstanding patient experience, and surgical excellence. A fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Mr. Dilley has also served as regent and board president for ACHE of Indiana and is a frequent presenter at national conferences. He is known for developing high-performing teams and mentoring emerging leaders within the ministry.

Preston Becker

Preston Becker, Director of Spiritual Care for Ascension Michigan, is recognized for his leadership in advancing Catholic identity and holistic care across complex healthcare environments. He oversees spiritual care strategy across 16 hospitals with more than 3,000 staffed beds, leading 50 chaplains and collaborating with four dioceses to ensure sacramental ministry remains integral to patient care.

Mr. Becker played a central role in guiding spiritual care through the joint venture between Ascension Michigan and Henry Ford Health, supporting leaders through transition while preserving Catholic identity. His ministry has extended to acute care hospitals, PACE centers, and prison chaplaincy, reflecting a deep commitment to serving the poor and vulnerable. In 2023, he received the National Association of Catholic Chaplains Emerging Leader Award for his national contributions to the profession.

"Chad and Preston exemplify the compassionate, mission-driven leadership that defines Catholic healthcare," said Loraine Brown, Chief Mission Integration Officer. "Their dedication to excellence and service strengthens our ministry and the communities we are privileged to serve."

Both honorees will be recognized at the 2026 Catholic Health Assembly.