Staff

JOHN P. KNIERY

Central Illinois native John Kniery is well known for his commitment and expertise in the Healthcare development field.  With more than two decades' worth of experience in both short-term and long-term planning, he has helped countless healthcare organizations reach their goals.  John assumed his role as Administrator of HFSRB in May of 2022, where he continues to provide guidance based on his vast experience in healthcare planning.  John is community-minded, as he has served as an alderman for Leland Grove, and currently plays an active role in events at Blessed Sacrament Parish. John and his wife, Gina, and son Dominic, reside in Springfield, where they love to spend time with their darling pup, Penny, and root for their beloved Chicago Cubs. 

BLANCA R.  DOMINGUEZ

Blanca R. Dominguez has experience in both the private and public sectors. Throughout her legal career, she has developed deep expertise in employment law, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance, representing a diverse range of clients from multinational corporations to government agencies.  Before joining HFSRB, Blanca worked with the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity where she played a crucial role in shaping and implementing policies relating to loans to small businesses and social equity cannabis business owners.

DON JONES

Don Jones has 35 years of experience in Illinois State Government. His career began in 1988 as an Audit Supervisor with the Auditor General. In 1994, he began working for the HFSRB as a CON reviewer.  In 2008, Don transitioned to IDPH's Center for Rural Health where he administered workforce development programs, including scholarship and educational loan repayment programs for healthcare providers. In January 2023, Don returned to work for HFSRB to assist in administrative rule development. He holds a bachelor's degree in health services administration and an MBA both from the University of Illinois – Springfield.

MIKE CONSTANTINO

Mike Constantino has 34 years of experience in Illinois State Government.  He started his state career at the Office of the Auditor General and worked at Healthcare and Family Services before coming to the Illinois Department of Public Health in 2000.  Since coming to Illinois Department of Public Health, he has held the position of project reviewer with HFSRB.  He holds a bachelor’s in political science from Western Illinois University.

GEORGE ROATE

George Roate has been employed at in Illinois State Government since 1997.  After graduating high school, he served in the United States Army for 3 years, and the Illinois Army National Guard for 5 years.  He graduated from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale with an A.A.S Mortuary Science in August 1994, a B.S. Advanced Technical Studies in May 1995, and M.S. Ed  Workforce Education & Development in August 1997.  During his state career, he has worked at the Department of Human Services and the Illinois Department of Public Health.  He joined the HFSRB in 2007 as a Public Service Administrator, Project Reviewer.

KENTON TILFORD

Kenton Tilford joined HFSRB on December 1, 2023, as the Health Systems Data Manager.  He has already put his stamp on the organization by spearheading the development of a new website and is modernizing HFSRB’s data collection and presentation processes.  Kenton is an Illinois native and graduate of Knox College (Economics and Philosophy) While away from his desk, Kenton and Kate enjoy time with friends and their 3 beautiful dogs, he also likes playing tennis and a nice steak. 

SHARIE RYAN

Sharie Ryan started at the Illinois Department of Public Health in November of 2000 where she has continued her whole state career. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois.  She has held various positions throughout her state career at the Illinois Department of Public Health including, the Office of Health Promotion, Tobacco Control Program; Office of Disease Control, HIV Fiscal Manager; Office of Preparedness and Response, Assistant to the Deputy Director; Office of Finance and Administration, Agency Telecom Coordinator.  Since December 1, 2023, she has been working as HFSRB’s Office Coordinator.