What was only supposed to be a six-month stay turned into 20 months of hope and transformation. As many of you know, Deanna came out of retirement and resigned from our board to be our interim COO in 2023. But now, with a newly constructed home, grandbabies on the way and a husband who is ready to do some traveling, she has decided to officially retire.

“She brought unprecedented and excellent change through process improvements, new services, an integrated care model, COA accreditation for all programs and a renewed focus on quality,” says President and CEO Michelle Lavallee. “We thank her for her exemplary service and leadership.

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Thank you to everyone who attended Deanna Larson’s retirement party on January 31!

In a message to all staff, she said, “It has been a gift for me to be here and to gain deep appreciation for the humility and humanness of those we serve. Your work will live on in my heart as I look on to my next calling.”

Deanna’s husband, Dan, joined her for her retirement celebration!

CHS Board Chair Jack Marsh and CPO Jon Mammenga presents Deanna with a piece of framed artwork.

Director of Schools Mike Groher, Deanna and CAO Mark Niemeyer.

Deanna and Executive Assistant Linda Robison.