Care, relationships drive new Gundersen Palmer Lutheran CEO

Patrice Kuennen understands the power of positive relationships.

"Our patients' needs and our community's health drives everything we do. Listening to our neighbors, caring for them and supporting them creates a healthier community for everyone," the new chief executive officer at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital and Clinics shares.

Kuennen, a Waucoma, Iowa, native, has been with Gundersen Palmer Lutheran since 2012, most recently serving as chief nursing officer, a role she will continue until a replacement is hired.

"Patrice values the knowledge and contributions of every member of the Gundersen Palmer Lutheran team," says Garith Steiner, vice president, Gundersen Health System Critical Access Hospitals and Clinics. "Her knowledge of patient care and relationships with the people who provide the care make her an ideal fit."

Kuennen joined Gundersen Palmer Lutheran in 2012 as a staff nurse and soon after led the Medical/Surgical unit as nurse manager. Kuennen became chief nursing officer in 2017. Prior to her care for patients at Gundersen Palmer Lutheran, Kuennen was a nurse leader at Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo, Iowa, where she served as manager in the NICU and Pediatric unit.

"We've cared for patients and our community very well for many years," Kuennen says. "I'm honored to be selected for this role, and I'm excited to continue to work alongside the great Gundersen Palmer Lutheran clinicians and staff to support their care for our patients, their families and our community."