Her Story
About Ronke
Ronke Champion-Adeyemi began her higher education in Nigeria at the University of Ilorin, where she first pursued college studies before relocating to the United States. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Loyola University Chicago in 1995, establishing the foundation for a long career in healthcare. Over time, she expanded her academic background with an MBA completed in 2017 and, later in life, began a doctoral program in leadership at Concordia University Chicago in 2024 at age 60, reflecting a continued commitment to lifelong learning.
Professionally, she built a more than 30-year career as a registered nurse and healthcare executive, specializing in hospice and end-of-life care. She founded and led multiple hospice organizations, culminating in her current role as Founder & CEO of Still Waters Hospice of the Desert, where she oversees compassionate care services for patients and families. Her work blends clinical leadership with organizational development, including consulting roles supporting hospice operations and compliance.
In addition to healthcare leadership, Ronke Champion-Adeyemi has pursued sports and entertainment leadership, including certification as a former NFL contract advisor with the NFL Players Association. She is also a keynote speaker, author, and mentor, known for integrating her experiences in nursing, entrepreneurship, and parenting philosophy into her public work. Across her career, she has combined resilience, education, and service-driven leadership to build organizations and mentor others while continuing to advance her own academic and professional journey.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ronke
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong work ethic instilled in me by my parents. From an early age, I was raised with the understanding that success was not optional—it was expected. That mindset shaped my approach to life and work. I have consistently relied on discipline, perseverance, and a commitment to hard work, even in challenging seasons. I also believe strongly in following my passion while remaining committed to lifelong learning. For me, success is the result of showing up consistently and putting in the work, regardless of circumstances.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received was to ask myself, “If money were not an object, what would you do for free?” That question became a turning point in my life. It helped me recognize that while hospice care is my calling, my deeper passion also extends into sports and leadership. I now encourage others to identify the intersection of three things: what pays the bills, what you are called to do, and what you are passionate about. When those three align, work becomes not just a career, but a deeply fulfilling purpose.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering healthcare is to recognize that this field offers both stability and a wide range of opportunities. Do not limit yourself to bedside care alone. Healthcare is broad, and there are many specialties and leadership pathways to explore. Take the time to find your niche. Network intentionally, attend conferences, and commit to continuous learning. Most importantly, invest in your own professional growth and do not consistently place yourself last in the process of serving others.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
At this stage in my career, my greatest concern is not necessarily within my profession, but in the broader responsibility of helping the next generation navigate today’s world. I am deeply aware of the challenges posed by social media, division, discrimination, and the difficulty of raising resilient children in a rapidly changing society. Professionally, I feel fulfilled and grounded in my work, and I do not view my field as lacking opportunity. Instead, my focus is on using my experience to contribute positively to both healthcare and the development of stronger, more prepared future generations.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is the foundation of everything I do. I believe in treating every role, responsibility, and assignment as if I am ultimately working for God, regardless of title or supervision. I am committed to leading by empowering others and helping people reach their full potential. In hospice and end-of-life care especially, I prioritize dignity, compassion, and respect for every individual and family I serve. I also believe in doing my very best each day, understanding that while perfection is not possible, excellence and effort are always within my control.
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