Daniel J. Messina, Anthony Basile only Staten Island honorees on 80-person list of sector trailblazers
New York State hospitals and health systems generate $247 billion in annual economic activity, according to Crain’s New York Business. The New York City focused news outlet recently unveiled its list of Notable Leaders in Health Care for 2026. Among the 80 honorees was Richmond University Medical Center’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Daniel J. Messina, PhD, MPA, FACHE; and Vice President of Patient Care Services and Nursing Operations, Anthony Basile, DNP, RN, CCRN, SCRN. Both Messina and Basile are the only Staten Island based leaders on this year’s list.
According to Crains, “Our 2026 Notable Leaders in Health Care represent the driving force behind this industry. The 80 honorees are leading innovations in neuroscience, making mental health support more accessible, advising health care organizations on digital innovation, leading workforces that are thousands strong, and more.”
At the helm of RUMC since 2014 and a seasoned executive with over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience, Messina was named to this year’s list in recognition of his accomplishments, including major expansions in ambulatory care, behavioral health, cancer care, surgical services, rehabilitation, and emergency medicine. Crain’s also praised his commitment to developing strategic partnerships, system-wide growth, facility modernization, and network integration across Staten Island and its neighboring communities.
Crain’s also cited several recent “big wins” for Messina, including advancing maternal and pediatric health access, and securing financing for significant capital projects, including RUMC’s James P. Molinaro Emergency Department that opened in 2023, the Lucille and Jay Chazanoff Surgical Pavilion that opened in 2024, and the creation of an on-site cogeneration power plant that reduces reliance on outside energy sources, and provides the hospital with self-generated electricity, heating, cooling, and hot water. The plant went into operation in early 2026.
Messina also serves on several boards including the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA) and the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS).
“While recognition is always appreciated, I view this honor as a reflection of the extraordinary teams I have had the privilege to work alongside at Richmond University Medical Center,” Messina said. “Our ability to achieve meaningful progress during some of the most challenging times our industry has faced is a testament to the leadership of our Board of Trustees, the dedication of our exceptional medical staff, the management staff, and to each and every frontline employee whose resilience, compassion, and professionalism make our mission possible every day.”
Also making the list from RUMC was Basile, who has been in his current role as a member of Nursing Administration at the hospital since 2022. He was cited by Crain’s for driving systemwide initiatives that enhance patient outcomes, elevate nursing practices, and strengthen organizational performance. Crain’s also recognized his leadership in transformative efforts to reduce central line–associated bloodstream infections by applying evidence-based practices. Thanks to these actions, infection rates dropped measurably, improving patient safety and outcomes.
“I am truly greatly to have the opportunity to work with a dedicated team,” Basile said. “I take pride in being a nurse leader and I’m fortunate to mentor future nurse leaders and maintain the integrity of our profession. It’s an honor to be included in Craine’s Notable Leaders for 2026.”
Like Messina, Basile is originally from Staten Island, has over 20 years of nursing experience, and is a member of Wagner College’s Nursing Advisory Council.
The Crain’s Notable Leaders in Health Care includes 80 individuals whose nominations were accepted after a review by the news outlet’s editors. To qualify, nominees had to currently be serving in a senior leadership role, demonstrate significant impact through their initiatives, and show positive contributions to the communities, sectors, or populations they serve.
Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC), is a not-for-profit healthcare provider serving the ethnically diverse community of Staten Island and its neighbors. We provide premier-quality patient care through a full spectrum of emergent, acute, primary, behavioral health and educational services. We do this in an environment that promotes the highest satisfaction among patients, families, physicians, and staff. For more information call 1-718-818-1234 or visitwww.rumcsi.org. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
