An experience nurse administrator has taken a leadership position at Penobscot Valley Hospital. Karen Mueller, RN, has accepted the position of Chief Nursing Officer. Mueller was a staff nurse for many years before taking on roles with increasing management responsibility in facilities in Ohio and in New England, first as a nursing supervisor and charge nurse, then as assistant director and director of nursing. Most recently, she was the Director of Medical-Surgical Services at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington, Vermont. Mueller says she’s an avid reader who loves the outdoors. In fact, that was one of the big attractions which convinced Mueller to move to Maine.

“I love kayaking—flat water, rivers, and even sea kayaking, and the scenery here is just beautiful.” Mueller also hikes and has a number of hobbies including knitting and calligraphy. Mueller did her undergraduate work at Penn State and her masters at Kent state. She also earned a certificate in nursing administration. She has three grown children, one granddaughter, and a 2nd grandchild on the way.

The new CNO moved to Lincoln with her two dogs and two cats in early September and started as the CNO at PVH on September 24th. “I was drawn to PVH, because the position would allow me to still be deeply involved in nursing while giving me the chance to grow as a manager and administrator. PVH’s nurses have a great commitment to quality care, and I’m proud to be a part of that tradition.”