President of Saint Luke’s Central Region Announces Retirement

Jani Johnson retiring after 40 years of service with Saint Luke’s

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After 40 years of service at Saint Luke’s caring for people in the Kansas City area, Jani Johnson, RN, MSN, president of Saint Luke’s Central Region and Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City, has announced her retirement effective Feb. 1, 2026.

Johnson serves as president of Saint Luke’s Central Region, providing leadership and oversight to Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City, Saint Luke’s Hospital Crittenton Children’s Center, Saint Luke’s Bishop Spencer Place, and Saint Luke’s research and medical education programs.

“Jani’s commitment to delivering the best care possible has made our communities and the Kansas City area a better place to live for generations to come,” said Julie Quirin, president of Saint Luke’s, BJC Health System’s West Region. “Her approach to leadership—especially how she instills our values of Kindness and Teamwork in all she does—has lifted those fortunate to have worked with her. While she may be retiring, her impact and legacy will live on.”

Under Johnson’s leadership, Saint Luke’s Hospital has consistently been ranked as one of the region’s best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and is one of only 50 hospitals in the world to earn five consecutive Magnet Recognitions for excellence in nursing and patient care. 

Her professional honors include being named to Ingram’s Magazine’s Women Executives-Kansas City in 2024, as well as Ingram’s 250 Most Influential Business Leaders from 2022-2025. She has also been recognized multiple times by Becker’s Hospital Review in its annual list of Women Hospital and Health System Leaders to Know.

She began her career with Saint Luke’s in 1985 as a staff nurse at Saint Luke’s Hospital and has carried her experience on the front lines of patient care throughout her career, focusing on a mission- and values-driven approach. 

Prior to her current role, Johnson served in numerous leadership positions of increasing responsibility, including CEO of Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City; president and CEO of Saint Luke’s South Hospital in Overland Park, Kansas; and vice president of cardiovascular services for Saint Luke’s.