Building the Future of Healthcare and Substance Use Prevention in Northeastern Wisconsin
At the Northeastern Wisconsin Area Health Education Center (AHEC), we’re on a mission to develop the healthcare workforce, combat substance use, and foster healthier communities. Explore our programs and initiatives aimed at preparing students for fulfilling careers in healthcare and preventing substance use. Together, we’ll build a stronger, healthier Northeastern Wisconsin—one career, one patient, one community at a time.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a healthier Wisconsin by reducing substance use, fostering a diverse healthcare workforce, and strengthening underserved communities through education and collaboration.
Our vision
Creating communities where health, connection and support thrive.
Our vALUES
Connection – Support – Health – Learning – Compassion/Passion
Our History
We trace our roots back to the establishment of Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) in response to the shortage of primary care physicians and need for distribution of healthcare professionals. Since 1971, the AHEC program has focused on recruiting, training, and retaining a healthcare workforce committed to serving our communities.
Our Present
Today, we serve as one of seven Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) in Wisconsin, covering a wide geographical area including Brown, Calumet, Door, Fond du Lac, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Outagamie, Ozaukee, Sheboygan, Winnebago, and Washington Counties. With a focus on increasing distribution and development of the healthcare workforce, we offer a range of education and training opportunities.
Our Funding
We receive support from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health (SMPH). We also serve as a fiscal agent for various state and federal substance use prevention grants.
Board of Directors
Alexandra Zipke
Student Board of Directors
Amanda Hogan
Board of Directors | Director of Imaging and Surgical Sciences, Bellin College
Candice Boutelle
Secretary | Executive Director, Inspire Sheboygan
Erika Janssen
Board of Directors | Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Heidi Neverman
Board of Directors | Assistant Teaching Professor, University of Wisconsin Clinical Annotator, University of Minnesota
Kim Mueller
Board of Directors | Public Health Officer, Fond du Lac County Public Health Department
Kristin Sterns
Treasurer | Chief Executive Officer, Lakeshore Community Health Care
Paul Soczynski
Vice President | Senior VP, Healthcare Program, Volunteers of America
Rachelle Lancaster
President | Nursing Research Manager/Nurse Scientist, Institute of Nursing Excellence - Advocate Health
Sandra Slater
Board of Directors | Professor & Associate Professor, School of Pharmacy Program Director, Bachelor of Science in Public Health Concordia University, Wisconsin
