Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC) is addressing the growing demand for healthcare administrators with its Health Care Administration (HCAD) program. Dr. Jennifer Johs-Artisensi, the program director, emphasizes the importance of leadership in healthcare organizations: “The person at the top oversees everything, makes sure that rules are being followed. They’re driving the culture; they are setting the tone for what are going to be the core values of this organization.”

UWEC's HCAD program is unique in Wisconsin as it meets nursing home administrator license requirements and is one of 11 programs nationwide accredited by the National Association of Boards of Examiners of Long Term Care Administrators. The program has been preparing students for over 40 years and maintains a strong employment rate for graduates.

Dr. Lisa Jepsen, dean of the College of Business, highlights the increasing need for trained professionals due to an aging U.S. population: “We need people who can create sustainable business models for an industry that supports the dignity of our seniors.” The program enrolls about 160 undergraduates annually, with approximately 45 graduating each year.

The Center for Health Administration and Aging Services Excellence (CHAASE) at UWEC partners with various organizations to provide students with practical experiences in senior care settings. Senior student Kami Krumenauer is currently gaining experience through a residency at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Chippewa Falls. She notes, "You have the opportunity to live and breathe in the career that you are going into."

Katie Plendl, executive director at Wisconsin Veterans Home and a preceptor for residency students, acknowledges their collaboration with UWEC: “We’ve always seen it as a benefit for the university, for the students, for the people we serve here within our walls.”

Johs-Artisensi recently became chair of the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB). She sees her role as an opportunity to connect UW-Eau Claire with broader professional networks: “I’m excited to use my knowledge and expertise to advocate for standards that promote quality care and make a positive difference in people’s lives.” Michelle B. Grachek, NAB president and CEO, praised Johs-Artisensi’s appointment: “Her expertise...and strong intergenerational communication skills are an asset which are very much needed at a critical time for NAB."