Megan Hutton | Peoria, IL

Megan Hutton is shaping the future of pediatric healthcare in Illinois. As the Director of Operations for the Children’s Hospital of Illinois Ambulatory Clinics, she oversees strategic planning and the development of new multidisciplinary and regional pediatric clinics, ensuring families can access top quality care close to home. “Megan has also been given the responsibility of overseeing the operational design work for the new Pediatric Specialty Care Center that will unite 9+ subspecialties under one roof,” writes Michael Eckhardt, a Major Gifts Officer at OSF Foundation. “Not only will this improve access and collaboration in pediatric care across the region, it also happens to be OSF’s biggest and most important expansion project for 2026.”

Megan is a member of the Board of Health for the Peoria City/County Health Department and an active member of the Junior League of Peoria, where she has held multiple leadership roles since joining in 2019. She has a special passion for Pet Pack Rescue Initiative which supports dogs and cats in need. She has fostered several dogs, adopting one, Wheeler, in 2025 who “quickly decided he was home.”

With all of these responsibilities, it’s understandable that Megan has had to learn how to say “no.” “In the past, I often overcommitted to volunteer work and activities. Over time, I realized that overextending myself prevented me from being fully present and engaged. By learning to set boundaries, I am now able to focus my energy more intentionally.”

Narrowing her focus has also been important for Megan’s career trajectory. Growing up, she wanted to be a educator and spent hours teaching her stuffed animals. Then in high school, her focus shifted toward healthcare, leading her to Southern Illinois University with plans to pursue radiology. “Once I began my classes, I discovered a strong interest in healthcare administration and changed my major. After college, my first full-time role was at a children’s hospital, where I found my passion for pediatric healthcare.”

Megan’s mother, Lynn, has been a major influence in her life. “She’s my best friend, my constant support and my greatest teacher. Through her example, I learned hard work, independence and kindness. The way she shows up for others—and for me—has shaped who I am and continues to guide me every day.”

Megan is grateful to live close to her parents who both live in the Peoria area. “As an only child, I grew up surrounded by cousins, and I feel fortunate to be close to several aunts, uncles and cousins. I get to enjoy time with their families attending sporting events and theater productions.” She also loves trying new restaurants and considers herself a foodie, with favorite places including One World, Thyme, Hearth and Ardor. Megan travels whenever she gets the chance and enjoys exploring with her dog, Wheeler.