CHICAGO – Becker’s Hospital Review has named Valley Children’s Healthcare President and CEO Todd Suntrapak to its 2026 list of rural hospital and health system presidents and CEOs to know.
The list highlights executives who are expanding access to care, strengthening the healthcare workforce and investing in the long‑term vitality of the communities they serve.
Since assuming leadership, Suntrapak has guided Valley Children’s transformation from a single pediatric hospital into a comprehensive regional delivery network serving families across Central California. Along the way, the organization has earned continuous Joint Commission accreditation, an “AA” credit rating from Standard & Poor’s, Leapfrog quality recognition and repeated U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospital” honors.
Suntrapak was among 146 CEOs recognized nationwide. Becker’s noted that leaders selected for the list are asked to wear many hats – serving simultaneously as chief executive, community anchor, workforce developer and crisis manager – while navigating tight margins, staffing shortages and the lasting impact of the pandemic, all while positioning their organizations for growth and long‑term sustainability.
The publication highlighted Suntrapak’s guidance of mixed‑use development around the Madera hospital campus, designed to generate revenue that directly supports patient care. Becker’s further cited Valley Children’s role in creating the nation’s first microgrid at a pediatric hospital, a project aimed at strengthening energy resilience and ensuring uninterrupted care during emergencies.
Valley Children’s partnership with Fresno State, created under Suntrapak’s leadership, was also recognized. The collaboration is designed to increase nursing graduates by 50% over five years, helping address the region’s critical workforce needs.
In addition, Becker’s acknowledged Suntrapak’s leadership in establishing a partnership with Armenia’s Wigmore Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Through the collaboration, Armenian surgeons have received specialized pediatric training, extending Valley Children’s mission beyond borders.
Suntrapak currently sits on the executive committee for the California Hospital Association and is a member of the American Hospital Association region nine policy board.
The full list of 2026 Rural Hospital and Health System Presidents and CEOs to Know is available here.
