Oneida Health appoints new president

Following a national search for its next leader, Oneida Health has announced the appointment of Felissa Koernig as the healthcare system’s next president and chief executive officer.

“We performed an exhaustive six-month search across the country for the ideal candidate to move our healthcare network into the future,” said Mike Kallet, chair of the Oneida Health Board of Trustees.

“We couldn’t be happier with our selection. The Board and I are confident that Felissa’s experience and expertise perfectly align with Oneida Health’s current and future organizational goals,” Kallet added.

Koernig has more than 15 years of leadership experience in strategic and operational management in the non-profit, federal, and private sectors, according to Thursday’s announcement.

She received a law degree as well as a master’s degree in business administration from Pennsylvania State University and previously served as the president of Guthrie Corning Hospital in Corning.

“I am excited to join a healthcare organization with a well-known reputation for providing award-winning patient safety and experience to the community it serves,” said Koernig.

“Our top priority will continue to be providing convenient access to the highest quality of healthcare,” Koernig said. “I am honored to serve the residents of Madison and Oneida counties while leading a talented team of medical providers and professional staff.”

Koernig officially assumed her post at Oneida Health on Monday, Sept. 18. At that time, Jeremiah Sweet, who served as interim president and CEO, resumed his role as vice president of finance and CFO.

Koernig is a Presidential Management Fellow, a twoyear training and leadership training program offered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.

She also served as senior vice president/chief operating officer of Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital in Towanda, Pennsylvania, and associate director/ chief operating officer of the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Charleston, South Carolina.

In 2024, Oneida Health will be celebrating 125 years of providing healthcare. Koernig is the first female CEO in Oneida Health’s history.

“Our organization has a rich history of great leaders for more than a century,” said Kallet. “While leaning on our vast experience, we will continue to strive to deliver progressive care and produce the best results for our patients. In Oneida, the future of healthcare is bright.”