In a remarkable recognition of their impactful contributions to healthcare, three distinguished leaders from NYC Health + Hospitals have been honored by Crain’s New York Business as part of the ‘2024 Notable Black Leaders’ list.

This accolade highlights the achievements of Black New Yorkers across various sectors, including healthcare, law, and finance.

The honorees include Seun Ajibade, Director of Nursing for Behavioral Health Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health; Georges Leconte, Chief Executive Officer of NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem; and Cedric Olivera, Director of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health.

Seun Ajibade has made significant strides in enhancing patient care within behavioral health services.

He oversees inpatient units and a psychiatric emergency department, where he has successfully implemented a comprehensive restraint reduction program from 2022 to 2023, resulting in a nearly 20% decrease in restraints.

Ajibade stated, “These measures significantly enhanced patient safety and care quality, improving patient outcomes and increasing staff engagement in safe practices.”

His commitment extends beyond the hospital, as he actively participates in discussions addressing mental health disparities in the Black community and mentors students, offering insights and resources for their development.

Georges Leconte brings over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience, with a dedication to improving community health. As CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem, he previously held several key roles, including Senior Associate Executive Director for Ancillary Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst. Leconte reflected on his journey, stating, “My work is fueled by a passion for enhancing healthcare delivery and access for underserved populations.”

His leadership has resulted in the establishment of innovative programs, including a cardiac angioplasty program and the implementation of advanced medical technologies, significantly benefitting patient care.

Cedric Olivera, a leading physician in urogynecology, is known for his exceptional surgical skills and dedication to patient education. He provides care for conditions such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse while supervising OB-GYN residents. Olivera remarked, “My mission is to empower my patients through education and advanced surgical options, ensuring they receive the best possible care.”

His expertise in performing complex robotic surgeries has been instrumental in maintaining a complication rate of less than 1%, and he is actively involved in academic circles as an editorial board member of the American Urogynecology Journal.

NYC Health + Hospitals stands at the forefront of public health, serving over a million New Yorkers each year through a network of more than 70 patient care locations across the city’s five boroughs. With a workforce of over 43,000 employees, the organization remains committed to empowering all New Yorkers to lead their healthiest lives.