Stephen Smith returns to Rosecrance

Stephen Smith has returned to Rosecrance as the President of Rosecrance Illinois, where he will oversee all community-based services offered throughout the state.

Smith is a committed servant leader with a history of passionately improving systems and care for the communities he serves.

Since his first role at Rosecrance as a primary counselor for the men’s unit at Rosecrance Harrison in Rockford, Illinois, in 2006, Smith has built a strong foundation at Rosecrance through progressive leadership roles, particularly in residential care and youth services.

Through his direct and indirect leadership roles, Smith played a crucial part in launching several initiatives. He was involved in designing and implementing specialized services for young adults, supporting the integration of community mental health services into Rosecrance, and assisting in the establishment of mental health residential services for youth at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus.

Since leaving Rosecrance in 2020, he took on the role of CEO at a Federally Qualified Health Clinic, where he remained dedicated to eliminating barriers to quality and affordable care for underserved populations. Additionally, he served as President of Wisconsin Health Plus, a statewide value-based care collaborative, and has participated on various boards and committees throughout southern Wisconsin.

“I had the opportunity to work with Steve at Rosecrance, where he served as my supervisor,” said Carlene Cardosi, Rosecrance Behavioral Health’s President of Clinical Services and Chief Operating Officer. “He mentored and inspired me, helping me grow into the leader I am today. After he left Rosecrance, we stayed in touch, and I was impressed by how he led the FQHC as CEO and transformed the quality of care there. When Steve decided to return, I was thrilled. I know he would continue to lead Rosecrance Illinois with passion, integrity, and drive.”