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Lisa Kogan-Praska Named President and CEO of Catalpa Health

Lisa Kogan-Praska Named President and CEO of Catalpa Health

(Appleton, Wis. – May 14, 2012) – The Catalpa Health board of directors today announces it has named Lisa Kogan-Praska as president and CEO of the organization. Formed in February of 2012 as a joint venture of Affinity Health System, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and ThedaCare, Catalpa Health will provide comprehensive, community-based, outpatient behavioral health care to children.

“I am thrilled to accept this new position,” said Kogan-Praska. “Having worked in the health care industry for nearly 20 years, I recognize the dire need for the services Catalpa Health will provide. To have the opportunity to help shape this organization is a true privilege.”

In her role as president of the newly formed organization, Kogan-Praska will be responsible for hiring staff, developing the Catalpa Health program and working with area health care providers, schools and community organizations to ensure children have access to Catalpa Health services.

“Lisa is a perfect fit for Catalpa Health,” said Board Chair Dave VanderZanden. “As we continue to build the Catalpa Health program we need someone with clear direction and a proven management track record and Lisa excels in both areas. The board of directors looks forward to seeing Catalpa Health develop quickly under Lisa’s leadership.”

Kogan-Praska joins Catalpa Health after 12 years of service with Affinity Occupational Health, the last four spent as the director of Occupational Health and patient experience. She has worked in health care her entire career and spent time working in both behavioral health and children’s health fields.

Catalpa Health is a stand-alone entity that will provide outpatient services including: individual and group therapy, psychological and neuropsychological testing, medical management (psychiatry) and prevention services for the local public schools. Inpatient behavioral and mental health services will continue to be provided by St. Elizabeth Hospital.

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Catalpa Health provides a full continuum of mental health, wellness and preventative services to children and adolescents in the Fox Valley. A collaboration of Affinity Health System, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and ThedaCare, Catalpa Health believes in community partnerships and works with other mental health providers to ensure that all children are receiving the care they need.