Michael Englehart has been chosen to lead the Franciscan Alliance's next chapter. The Catholic faith-based healthcare system is celebrating its 150th anniversary.

Englehart succeeds Kevin Leahy, who is stepping down after 30 years as CEO. Englehart's role as president and CEO is effective Oct. 1. Leahy will help provide a smooth transition of leadership through Dec. 31, 2026.

Englehart has been the senior vice president for Franciscan Physician Network and Franciscan Post-Acute Services since June 2025. Before joining Franciscan, he spent 20 years at other health organization, including Presence Health, Trinity Health, Mercy Health and Advocate Health Care.

“Mike has a distinguished record of strategic leadership and a proven ability to align clinical excellence, operational performance and innovation to achieve lasting results,” said Sister Margaret Mary Mitchel, provincial superior of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration, sponsors of Franciscan’s healthcare ministry, in a press release. “As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Franciscan’s ministry, Mike’s background in Catholic healthcare and deep commitment to patient-centered care make him well-positioned to focus on our mission and lead Franciscan into its next chapter.”

The healthcare system with 11 hospitals and the Franciscan Physician Network employs more than 17,000 professionals.

“Together with our physicians, caregivers and support staff, I look forward to building on that foundation, advancing our Franciscan mission and meeting the evolving needs of the communities we serve,” Englehart said.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University, a master’s degree from Lewis University and a Master of Business Administration from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. He lives in Michigan City.