Even for health care leaders accustomed to confronting challenges, 2020 stands out as a uniquely challenging year. The COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the widespread protests against social injustice and systemic racism in the wake of George Floyd’s death, created a turbulent environment that required agile, flexible leadership.

The 2020 Executive Session, held virtually in Chicago on August 24, 2020, explored how health care leaders in New York City navigated the disruptions, constantly changing climate and intense stress to serve their diverse communities in urgent need of care. This executive summary shares lessons learned and practical future guidance for providing care and support to patients and employees while continuing to demonstrate community leadership in combating racial and social inequity.