On a heartfelt day at Cincinnati Children’s Radiology, friends and colleagues gathered to celebrate the retirement of Todd Lehkamp. After 44 years of dedicated service, Todd closes the chapter on a journey that began in 1981 and helped shape the very foundation of our Radiology Department.
A Career That Began and Ended at Cincinnati Children’s
Fresh out of his radiologic technologist education, Todd joined Cincinnati Children’s on December 2, 1981, as a full-time second-shift radiology technologist. Soon after he became the only full-time operating room (OR) technologist.
In 1988, Todd expanded his expertise into the Interventional Radiology (IR) and Catheter Lab Divisions, where he served as a technologist before rising through the ranks to become the IR manager. His leadership and vision eventually led him to his final role as senior director of Radiology.
Leading Through Transformation
As senior director, Todd oversaw clinical operations, supervised radiology directors and managers, and provided high-level leadership to the technologist workforce. He played a pivotal role in equipment planning and acquisition, as well as departmental space planning, ensuring that the Radiology department kept pace with the hospital’s rapid growth.
When Todd began his career, Radiology had just 58 employees. Today, that number has grown to 375. Cincinnati Children’s itself has expanded from 2,100 employees to over 20,000, and the Radiology Department now operates across 14 sites compared to just one in the early days. Back then, CT and MRI imaging were nonexistent; today, we boast a fleet of advanced imaging machines that support cutting-edge diagnostics, research, and care.
A Legacy of Growth and Impact
Todd’s fingerprints are on every major milestone in Radiology’s evolution. He guided the department through multi-million-dollar imaging equipment acquisitions, strategic growth planning, and the development of a robust leadership culture. His contributions have not only advanced our department but have also elevated the standard of care for countless patients.
As we bid farewell to Todd, we celebrate a legacy built on dedication, innovation, and heart. His impact will continue to resonate through the halls of Cincinnati Children’s for years to come.
Thank you, Todd, for 44 years of excellence. You’ve left an indelible mark on our institution and on all of us who had the privilege to work alongside you.
Glenn Miñano is a media specialist in the Department of Radiology, providing graphic design, photography, printing, video services, and administration of the department’s online properties. His works have been published in several medical articles, such as the American Journal of Radiology and the American Institute of Ultrasound. He has been providing these services to the Radiology Department since 1996.
Meredith Towbin is a freelance copy editor and writer. She has copyedited the Department of Radiology’s blog since it launched. She also works as a copy editor for the home improvement website BobVila.com. Her writing has been featured on HuffPost as well as other writing sites.
