SW Wisconsin News

After 12 years as President and Chief Executive Officer of Upland Hills Health, Lisa Schnedler has announced her retirement. Schnedler began her leadership in 2013 and oversaw significant organizational changes, including the integration of the Dodgeville and Mineral Point Medical Centers, expansion of specialty services, and the opening of new clinics in Mineral Point and Mount Horeb.

During her time at Upland Hills Health, Schnedler led the organization through several milestones such as its 50th anniversary and the planning stages for a senior living project and campus renovation. She also guided the health system during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jim Massey, Board Chairman, commented on Schnedler’s impact: “Lisa has helped build a culture of caring at Upland Hills Health – something we hear about often as members of the Board of Trustees. Yes, we built new structures, renovated buildings and planned more projects during the past dozen years, but it is the people that make our organization special. And we can thank Lisa for helping us build that special culture within our employees.”

Massey continued: “One of the biggest developments during Lisa’s tenure was folding the Dodgeville and Mineral Point Medical Centers into our organization. We also added many specialty services and survived a worldwide pandemic, thanks to Lisa’s leadership. I can’t count the number of times I have heard, ‘We are so lucky to have a hospital of this caliber in our community.’ That is a true statement – and it is because of the work Lisa has done.”

Dr. Charlie Pearce, Vice President of Medical Affairs at Upland Hills Health, said: “Lisa is the definition of a transformative leader; she has expertly shaped, supported and grown Upland Hills Health during her tenure. The center of gravity of her leadership has been her relentless advocacy for the community we serve – driving all of us to keep care local, personal, and of the highest quality. Quite personally, Lisa is the longest and most dedicated mentor of my professional life, having left an indelible mark of both great depth and breadth. I can’t thank her enough.”

Reflecting on her career with Upland Hills Health, Schnedler stated: “Serving Upland Hills Health and the people of this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Schnedler said. “Together, we have expanded services, strengthened trust in rural healthcare, and built a culture of caring that will carry forward for years to come. I am proud of what we accomplished and excited to see UHH continue to thrive in the future.”

The Board has coordinated with Schnedler to ensure a smooth transition for incoming CEO Dr. Mark Thompson. Dr. Thompson brings over 25 years’ experience leading integrated healthcare systems in Wisconsin and other locations. He will assume his role on September 15.

Upland Hills Health continues its commitment to patient safety across its clinics, hospital facilities, nursing center, medical equipment store, home care services, and hospice care.