Upland Hills Health CEO & President Recognized with Rural Health Ambassador Award
In a heartfelt and unexpected moment, President and CEO of Upland Hills Health Lisa Schnedler has been named the recipient of the 2025 Rural Health Ambassador Award.
The honor, presented annually by the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative, recognizes individuals across the state who exemplify outstanding commitment to rural health care and community well-being. Upland Hills Health surprised its leader with the award Wednesday in an emotional ceremony.
Schnedler, who has led Upland Hills Health since 2013, has long been recognized as a driving force behind the hospital’s mission to serve southwest Wisconsin with compassionate, community-focused care. Under her leadership, UHH has expanded services, strengthened local partnerships, and navigated complex health challenges – including the COVID pandemic – with resilience and purpose.
“Lisa leads with heart, vision, and a fierce dedication to patients and staff,” said Jeremy Levin, Director of Advocacy for RWHC. “She empowers others to lead, and in doing so, she has built a culture where innovation, kindness, and community thrive.”
The nomination cited several examples of Schnedler’s impact, including her role in regional collaboration efforts, her responsiveness to rural health policy challenges, and her constant encouragement of staff growth and development. Colleagues describe her as a force for good — steadfast, thoughtful, and always focused on the bigger picture of community health.
Though surprised by the recognition, Schnedler graciously accepted the award, turning the focus back to her team. “This is really about the people I work with every day,” she said. “They each deserve a piece of this award. I’m proud to be part of a community that believes so deeply in rural health and in taking care of one another.”
This recognition comes as Schnedler comes to the end of her healthcare career, with intentions to retire this year. She leaves behind a legacy of commitment to excellence at Upland Hills Health.
