WAUPUN — A leader for SSM Health hospitals serving Waupun, Ripon and Baraboo has been recognized for her work in rural health care as she prepares to retire.
The Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative has named DeAnn Thurmer a recipient of the 2026 Rural Health Ambassador Award. Thurmer serves as president of SSM Health St. Clare Hospital-Baraboo, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital and SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital. Thurmer is set to retire July 1 after a career that began as a nurse at Waupun Memorial Hospital and grew into more than four decades of health care leadership.
The Rural Health Ambassador Award recognizes health care professionals who promote their organizations, contribute to rural health care and help strengthen connections in the communities they serve. SSM Health said Thurmer was selected for her long-term commitment to rural health care, servant leadership and connections to Baraboo, Ripon and Waupun.
Thurmer said rural health care has been her passion throughout her career and called it an honor to advocate for rural hospitals and communities. SSM Health leaders praised Thurmer for her focus on patient care, clinical quality, safety and support for caregivers. She is also a registered nurse and a DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. In addition to her work with SSM Health, Thurmer participates in Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative president roundtables and serves on the organization’s Board of Directors.
The Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative was incorporated in 1979 and supports rural hospitals through shared services, education, advocacy and regional partnerships.
