Benedictine Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Benedictine has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, administration, financial oversight, and operational management.

Guided by a commitment to compassionate care, Benedictine delivers comprehensive health and housing services to aging adults across the upper Midwest. This organization prioritizes mission-driven excellence to enhance the quality of life for every resident served.

Leadership Roles at Benedictine

  • Chief Executive Officer - Rand Gettler
  • Administrator Chief Executive Officer - Pete Leer
  • Chief Executive Officer & Administrator - Judith Hulst
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jerry Carley
  • Chief Executive Officer & Administrator - Barbara Wessberg
  • Chief Executive Officer & Administrator - Christine Kerns
  • Administrator and Chief Executive Officer - Len Meysembourg
  • Chief Executive Officer & Administrator - Emmalene Tretter
  • Chief Financial Officer - Linda Odergaard
  • Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer - Anneliese Peterson
  • Rand Gettler - Chief Executive Officer

    Rand Gettler, the Chief Executive Officer at Benedictine, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire health system. Focusing on the expansion of skilled nursing and rehabilitation services, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all facilities maintain high standards of clinical excellence. Gettler manages the alignment of mission-based care with long-term financial sustainability across the upper Midwest. By coordinating with the board and senior leadership, the Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that improve the quality of life for aging adults. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends to adapt service offerings in memory care and transitional support. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, Rand Gettler secures the future of the system. The Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on operational efficiency while upholding the core values of the organization, ensuring that every community provides exceptional care to residents.

    Pete Leer - Administrator Chief Executive Officer

    Pete Leer, the Administrator Chief Executive Officer at Benedictine, oversees the daily operational integrity of specific senior living communities. This role involves managing the complex regulatory requirements inherent in skilled nursing and assisted living environments. Leer directs the implementation of standardized care protocols to ensure resident safety and satisfaction. By monitoring facility-level performance metrics, the Administrator Chief Executive Officer optimizes resource allocation and staffing levels. Pete Leer coordinates with regional directors to maintain consistent service quality across the upper Midwest. This position requires a deep understanding of geriatric health services and the ability to navigate the evolving landscape of home health care. Through proactive management of facility assets and personnel, the Administrator Chief Executive Officer fosters an environment of continuous improvement. Leer ensures that every operational decision supports the broader mission of providing dignified housing and health services to the aging population.

    Judith Hulst - Chief Executive Officer & Administrator

    Judith Hulst, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator at Benedictine, manages the integration of clinical services and administrative functions within assigned communities. This role focuses on the delivery of high-quality rehabilitation and therapy services to residents. Hulst directs the development of specialized memory care programs that address the unique needs of the aging population. By supervising the administrative staff, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator ensures compliance with state and federal health regulations. Judith Hulst monitors the financial health of these facilities, balancing the need for high-quality care with fiscal responsibility. This leadership position involves fostering strong relationships with families and local community stakeholders to enhance the reputation of the system. Through the execution of strategic operational plans, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator drives growth in independent living services. Hulst maintains a commitment to excellence in every aspect of facility management and resident support.

    Jerry Carley - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jerry Carley, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Benedictine, architects the long-term growth strategy for the entire health system. This role involves leading the executive team in the pursuit of mission-driven expansion across the upper Midwest. Carley directs the acquisition and development of new housing and health service assets to meet the rising demand for senior care. By engaging with the board of directors, the President & Chief Executive Officer aligns organizational goals with the evolving needs of the aging population. Jerry Carley oversees the implementation of innovative care models, including advanced rehabilitation and home health services. This leadership position requires a focus on organizational culture and the retention of top-tier clinical talent. Through the strategic management of system-wide resources, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the long-term viability of the organization. Carley drives the mission forward by prioritizing excellence in every facet of the health and housing portfolio.

    Barbara Wessberg - Chief Executive Officer & Administrator

    Barbara Wessberg, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator at Benedictine, manages the operational success of key senior living communities. This role focuses on the delivery of comprehensive assisted living and transitional care services. Wessberg directs the daily activities of clinical and support staff to ensure the highest standards of resident care. By analyzing operational data, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator identifies opportunities for efficiency and service enhancement. Barbara Wessberg coordinates with the broader leadership team to implement system-wide initiatives that improve the resident experience. This position involves managing the complex logistics of health service delivery, including therapy and rehabilitation programs. Through the effective oversight of facility budgets and personnel, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator drives positive outcomes for the aging population. Wessberg maintains a focus on regulatory compliance and the continuous improvement of care standards within the assigned regional operations.
    Barbara Wessberg

    Christine Kerns - Chief Executive Officer & Administrator

    Christine Kerns, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator at Benedictine, oversees the strategic and operational functions of specific senior living facilities. This role involves the management of memory care and independent living services to ensure resident well-being. Kerns directs the implementation of clinical best practices to maintain high-quality care standards. By supervising the administrative and nursing teams, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator ensures that all facility operations align with the mission of the organization. Christine Kerns monitors the financial performance of these communities, focusing on revenue growth and cost management. This leadership position requires a deep commitment to the needs of aging adults and the ability to lead diverse teams in a fast-paced environment. Through the execution of operational strategies, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator drives excellence in service delivery. Kerns ensures that every resident receives compassionate and professional care within the system.

    Len Meysembourg - Administrator and Chief Executive Officer

    Len Meysembourg, the Administrator and Chief Executive Officer at Benedictine, directs the operational and administrative activities of assigned senior care communities. This role focuses on the delivery of skilled nursing and rehabilitation services to the aging population. Meysembourg manages the daily operations of these facilities, ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations. By overseeing the clinical staff, the Administrator and Chief Executive Officer ensures that residents receive high-quality, mission-driven care. Len Meysembourg monitors facility performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and growth. This leadership position involves coordinating with regional teams to optimize the delivery of health services across the upper Midwest. Through the effective management of resources and personnel, the Administrator and Chief Executive Officer drives the success of the organization. Meysembourg maintains a focus on resident satisfaction and the continuous improvement of care standards within the assigned facilities.

    Emmalene Tretter - Chief Executive Officer & Administrator

    Emmalene Tretter, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator at Benedictine, manages the operational and clinical functions of key senior living communities. This role involves the delivery of comprehensive health services, including therapy and transitional care. Tretter directs the administrative staff to ensure that all facility operations meet the high standards of the organization. By monitoring resident care outcomes, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator identifies opportunities for service enhancement and operational efficiency. Emmalene Tretter coordinates with the broader leadership team to implement system-wide initiatives that support the mission of the organization. This position requires a focus on regulatory compliance and the management of complex health service delivery models. Through the effective oversight of facility budgets and personnel, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator drives positive outcomes for the aging population. Tretter maintains a commitment to excellence in every aspect of facility management and resident support.

    Linda Odergaard - Chief Financial Officer

    Linda Odergaard, the Chief Financial Officer at Benedictine, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the entire health system. This role involves managing the complex budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting processes required for a large-scale health and housing organization. Odergaard oversees the allocation of capital resources to support the expansion of skilled nursing and assisted living communities. By analyzing financial data, the Chief Financial Officer provides the insights necessary for the executive team to make informed strategic decisions. Linda Odergaard manages the relationships with financial institutions and ensures compliance with all fiscal regulations. This leadership position requires a focus on long-term financial sustainability while supporting the mission-driven care provided to aging adults. Through the rigorous management of the system's financial assets, the Chief Financial Officer drives the growth and stability of the organization. Odergaard ensures that all financial operations align with the core values of the system.

    Anneliese Peterson - Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer

    Anneliese Peterson, the Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer at Benedictine, directs the operational execution of the entire health system. This role involves overseeing the daily performance of all skilled nursing, assisted living, and independent living communities. Peterson manages the implementation of standardized operational protocols to ensure consistency and quality across the upper Midwest. By coordinating with the executive team, the Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer aligns operational activities with the strategic goals of the organization. Anneliese Peterson monitors key performance indicators to drive efficiency and improve the resident experience. This leadership position requires a focus on the integration of therapy, rehabilitation, and home health services into the broader operational framework. Through the effective management of regional operations, the Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer ensures that the system delivers exceptional care. Peterson drives the operational success of the organization by fostering a culture of excellence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Benedictine Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Benedictine?
    Benedictine is led by Rand Gettler (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Pete Leer (Administrator Chief Executive Officer) and Judith Hulst (Chief Executive Officer & Administrator).
    Who is part of Benedictine’s executive team?
    The executive team of Benedictine includes leaders such as Rand Gettler (Chief Executive Officer), Pete Leer (Administrator Chief Executive Officer), Judith Hulst (Chief Executive Officer & Administrator) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Benedictine have?
    Benedictine has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Benedictine’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Benedictine includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Administrator Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Administrator, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Administrator.