When Dr. Elias Rizk arrived in Austin this January to lead Pediatric Neurosurgery at Dell Children’s, he didn’t just bring decades of experience, an M.D., and a Ph.D. in neurosciences—he brought a contagious enthusiasm and a vision for greatness.
“I wish anyone could experience the feeling I have every day coming into work,” he says. “It’s inspiring. It’s collaborative. And it’s unlike anything I’ve experienced before.”
Dr. Rizk trained at Penn State and completed his fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham under legendary neurosurgeon Dr. Jerry “Jay” Oaks. He then spent over a decade at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, where he honed his expertise in complex pediatric neurosurgery, peripheral nerve repair, and leadership. In addition to his clinical work, he has earned a Ph.D. in neuroscience and is completing an MBA—proof of his commitment to continuous growth and innovation.
And that’s precisely what drew him to Dell Children’s.
“There’s something truly special happening here,” he says. “You don’t just see passion—you feel it. Every team member is focused on delivering world-class care, and the support system around that mission is real. Leadership doesn’t just talk about improvement—they make it happen.”
A Vision Rooted in Excellence and Equity
Dr. Rizk’s vision is twofold: first, ensure that no child in Central Texas ever needs to leave home for top-tier neurosurgical care—and second, make Dell Children’s a destination hospital for families across the region.
“We’re not just trying to be a ranked children’s hospital. We want to be leaders in the field,” he says. “We already have the foundation. Now we grow education, research, outreach, and innovation.”
That growth includes deeper community partnerships, expanding care into regions like Lubbock and Corpus Christi, growing fellowship training programs, and advancing cutting-edge technologies.
One such advancement is the intraoperative MRI (iMRI)—a powerful diagnostic tool that enables neurosurgeons to view MRI images in real-time during surgery.
Thanks to Dell Children’s Foundation’s inspired donors, Dell Children’s was able to purchase this state-of-the-art technology that is improving care and saving lives.
“It’s a game-changer,” Dr. Rizk explains. “The iMRI allows us to make safer, more informed decisions right there in the operating room. It’s the kind of technology that truly transforms outcomes. And we have it right here at Dell Children’s.”
All Hands on Deck: The Dell Difference
What strikes Dr. Rizk most, though, isn’t just the technology or talent—it’s the culture.
Whether it’s a nurse offering help before he asks or a colleague calling to collaborate on a complex case, the spirit of teamwork runs deep.
“There’s no red tape here. If I have a concern about a patient, I can knock on the door and get the answers I need. That doesn’t happen in many places. Everyone is all in—and that’s the Dell Children’s difference.”
He recalls a recent situation involving a small systems issue with medication availability. Rather than accept delays, he scheduled a meeting with pharmacy leadership. The solution was immediate.
“People want to help—they just need the right information,” he says. “That mindset is everywhere here. Every problem is met with ‘How can we help?’ That’s true patient-centered care.”
Looking Ahead
As Dell Children’s continues its mission to serve more families, Dr. Rizk is ready to advocate, lead, and grow alongside a team that shares his vision.
“We’re not sprinting—we’re running a marathon. But we’re all running in the same direction. The energy here is unmatched.”
For Dr. Rizk, Dell Children’s isn’t just a workplace. It’s a community. A calling. And a launchpad for something extraordinary.
“I’m humbled to be part of this,” he says. “And I promise you—we’re only getting started.”