ABOUT SEQUOIA

Our Mission

OUR MISSION

Sequoia aims to provide every patient with a tailored and unique clinical experience, meeting each patient where they are in an effort to help them work toward the best version of themselves.

Our Vision

OUR VISION

Create a world with the best medical and psychological care available to all we meet, wherever they may breathe.

Our History

OUR HISTORY

Sequoia Integrative Medical Services was founded in 2020 by Dr. Mary Kate Friess DNP, FNP-BC and Jennifer Vanden Heuvel.  These visionaries had a dream and a mission of serving our aging population as best they could.  Boom — Sequoia was founded, offering in-person and Telehealth medical services in assisted living facilities.

Mary Kate and Jen wanted to offer more comprehensive and individualized care to those aging in place. Many barriers exist that limit aging adults from receiving adequate medical care.  Transportation. Resources. Weather. Physical limitations. Even fear.

Sequoia opened its physical headquarters in Kaukauna in 2020 amid the uncertainty of the pandemic. Incredibly, in 4 years, the business has flourished, growing from 0 to over 900+ active patients and expanding to a service area that spans across Wisconsin and covers 60+ different communities.  Much of the success that this business has experienced can be attributed to the dedicated team made up of nurse practitioners, RN’s, and LPN’s, who provide patients and families with peace of mind that medical care doesn’t need to be inconvenient.

The SEQUOIA TEAM

Meet the compassionate and dedicated Sequoia team.  We are a group of experienced medical professionals who are here to support and uplift you or your loved one in their journey.  With a shared commitment to providing exceptional care, we are ready to lend a helping hand, a listening ear, and a warm smile.  Trust us to be your companions on this path, dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for each individual we serve. Let us be your trusted partners in elder care, ensuring comfort, dignity, and personalized support every step of the way.

Mary Kate from Sequoia

Dr. Mary Kate Friess DNP, FNP-BC,
Director of Clinical Operations & Co-Owner

Dr. Mary Kate is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience in a variety of health care settings. Caring for the underserved and vulnerable is truly one of Mary Kate’s great passions, which is why, after a long career in health care and nursing education, Mary Kate partnered to found Sequoia Integrative Medical Services in 2020. After four successful years, Sequoia continues to positively impact patients in multiple locations.

In her free time, Mary Kate loves being with her two beloved children, her family and her friends. Traveling, hiking, gardening and speaking French creates joie de vivre.

Jen from Sequoia

Jennifer Vanden Heuvel,
Director of Administration & Co-Owner

Jen has had the pleasure for over twelve years of working both clinical and administrative in geriatric healthcare, as a caregiver and as various administrative roles. She’s worked in nursing home, assisted living and hospice settings. Jen takes pride in creating and maintaining relationships with our providers, business associates, facility directors, vendors, and all who make Sequoia a functioning entity. 

The maturing population is important to her because quality of life should be a priority until we reach our resting place. Jen’s happy place is exploring the ocean’s shelled shores and soaking up the warm weather. Salt life, running, and music hold her heart.

Katelyn from Sequoia

Katelyn Wery, LPN,
Clinical Supervisor & Director of Admissions

Katelyn is an LPN with over 15 years of experience in healthcare.  over the course of her career, she has transitioned through several moving parts of healthcare.  She is dedicated to providing the best care and being the best advocate for her patients.

She has earned the role of Clinical Supervisor where she mentors her peers and continues to promote best nurse practices for patients.  Katelyn holds a degree in practical nursing from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College.  She lives with her husband and three sons in De Pere.

Allison from Sequoia

Allison Rutten, APNP, FNP-BC

I’m Allison, a Family Nurse Practitioner. I recently graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin and am board-certified by the ANCC. I am born and raised in the Green Bay, WI area, and have been practicing in health care since 2009 in various roles.

Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to providing patients across the lifespan the right care at the right time, primarily working in skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and home health. It has become increasingly apparent to me that these three areas of healthcare have some of the highest disparities, and I am looking to positively change this.

Natalie Banda, APNP, FNP-BC

Natalie Banda, APNP, FNP-BC

Natalie is a Family Nurse Practitioner who has a passion for caring for her patients and for learning. She started her nursing career as a CNA working in nursing homes around her community. She completed the Accelerated BSN program at UW-Oshkosh. Working in various settings, such as long-term care, hospitals,  and in-home health, gave her many opportunities for knowledge and growth as a RN. She obtained her MSN in 2022 through Marian University. She hopes to soon continue on in her education with a certification or doctorate in psychiatric-mental health.

In her free time, Natalie enjoys the fresh air of outside activities, running/exercising, and spending time with her husband and four children.

Teal at Sequoia

Teal Calaway, MSN, APNP, FNP-C

Hi, my name is Teal Calaway, and I am a Family Nurse Practitioner.  I have been in healthcare since I can remember.  I started as a CNA in 2013 and worked my way up to a family nurse practitioner in 2021.  I am board-certified by the AANP.

I have always had a passion for helping others, and this job allows me to continue to help others every day.  As a family nurse practitioner, it is my goal to help every patient to optimize their physical and mental health to achieve the highest quality of life across all lifespans.

In my personal time, I love spending time with my family and friends.  Being a mother and watching my two children grow is my greatest pleasure.  We enjoy traveling, exploring, and staying home!

Haley at Sequoia

Haley DeCero, APNP, FNP-BC

Hi, I’m Haley!  I’ve been a nurse for 13 years.  I most recently graduated in 2020 with my masters as a Family Nurse Practitioner. 

The majority of my nursing career has been in various senior living roles and working with the geriatric population. I whole-heartedly enjoy working as a nurse and couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

I enjoy spending time with my family – my husband, our two toddlers, and our dog. I love going out to eat, trying new foods and drinks, and traveling as much as we can.

Leanna at Sequoia

Leanna Munoz, FNP

Leanna Munoz brings 18 years of dedicated service in healthcare, with 13 years specifically devoted to her role as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She is entrusted with the care of the Eau Claire community and its surrounding areas, where she has made a lasting impact through her commitment to patient well-being and comprehensive healthcare practices.
 
Leanna’s passion lies in providing compassionate and high quality healthcare services. She believes in the power of effective teamwork and collaboration, always striving to ensure that patient interests remain at the forefront of every decision and treatment plan.
 
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Leanna finds joy in spending cherished moments with her spouse and four children. Their shared love for travel and exploration fuels their adventurous spirit, always eagerly planning their next exciting journey. Leanna’s dedication to her patients, coupled with her zest for life and family, makes her a valued healthcare provider and community advocate.  Sequoia is happy to have her on our team!
Nicole Li Sequoia

Nicole Li, FNP-C PMHNP-BC

Hi!  I’m Nicole, a dual-certified licensed FNP & psychiatric mental health NP. With over 10 years of experience as an RN, I primarily worked with the geriatric population and LTAC settings before pursuing my master’s degree. I have worked as an FNP for almost 1 year working with the geriatric population. Currently, my specialty lies in psychiatry, where I have practiced for over 5 years across correctional, outpatient & inpatient hospital settings.

My approach to providing care is to be patient-centered. I strive to be respectful of, and responsive to, individual patient preferences, needs, and values, and ensure that patient values guide all clinical decisions. I hope to continue my education with a doctorate in psychiatric mental health.

In my free time, I love spending time with our 4 children and our dog, Chewy. I enjoyed cooking, camping, traveling and canvas painting.

Pam from Sequoia

Pam Leplavy, Lead Clinical RN

Hello! My name is Pam and I have been a Registered Nurse specializing in geriatric and mental health since 2010. I was fortunate enough to be Sequoia’s first nurse, and so proud of the growth, success, and team that is now in place. I love my job and my work family…along with all the patients, families, and facility partners I come in contact with. Like they say… It is truly not a job if you love what you do.

In my non-working hours, I prefer to be a homebody or spend time with my two grandchildren, Beckham and Chandler. I live in the Appleton area and would love to get to know you and your families!

Paige at Sequoia

Paige Maurina, RN

Paige has been in the medical field since she was 16. She earned her nursing degree from Northeastern Wisconsin Technical College. Her role includes daily triaging of patient needs, monitoring treatment, and providing patient medical care. Believing we all need an advocate in life and in health, Paige does her job with great care and attention. She has specific experience with dementia and Alzheimer’s, as well as a passion for psychiatric care/mental health for all ages.

Paige spends her free time roller-skating on the state trails and acrobatic strength training. She uses her passion for science and health to further improve her body and mind. She is also a natural comedian and always provides a refreshing reminder of just how important it is to laugh!

Mackenzie at Sequoia

Mackenzie Van Asten, RN

Hi! My name is Mackenzie, and I am a Registered Nurse with over 10 years of experience working in healthcare. 

With a background rooted in a passion for healthcare, my focus is on providing diligent patient care.  Sequoia offers an opportunity for me to apply my skills and contribute to a compassionate healthcare team.  My goal is to build meaningful connections with patients, support their health journeys, and continue to develop professionally in this unique environment.

In my personal time, I love spending time with my two children and fiancé.  You can often find us camping at our happy place in Door County. 
Emily Miller Sequoia Team

Emily Miller, RN

Hello, I’m Emily, a Registered Nurse.  I have worked in many different departments in healthcare including registration, medical records, staffing, payroll, and even volunteering. 
 
I have a Masters degree in Health Care Administration.  I decided I wanted to be a part of caring for the patients. Therefore, I received my CNA, LPN, and then RN.  I have worked on medical floors, ERs, ICU, and homecare.  I enjoy getting to know those I care for, advocating for them, and empowering them with education. 
 
When not working, you will find me, my amazing husband, our two teenagers, and 2 dogs remodeling our cabin, fishing, hunting, spending time with friends, and eating ice cream!
Taylor Lockhart Sequoia Team

Taylor Lockhart, RN

Hey everyone!  I’m Taylor, an RN with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I am originally from Elkhorn, WI. I attended Marian University in Fond du Lac, WI to obtain my BSN.

While in nursing school, I worked as a medical scribe in the Emergency Department. After graduating in 2018, I transitioned to an RN position in the ER.  I recently left the ER and am building a healthier work-life balance for myself and my family. I am thrilled to be starting with Sequoia, as I am eager and passionate about serving our aging population. I am looking forward to building a relationship with patients and their families as we navigate their care together.

When I’m not at Urgent Care or with Sequoia, you will find me helping out at my boyfriend’s restaurant or spending time with our 3 spunky and loving dogs!

Heather at Sequoia

Heather Aland, LPN, Head Triage

I have been in the healthcare field for 19 years. I was born and raised in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, and I moved to the Green Bay Area 13 years ago to pursue my nursing dreams. I graduated from NWTC in 2015 as an LPN.

Starting at a very early age, I’ve had a burning desire to help others. I became a CNA as soon as I could. I spent my younger years working in group homes, TBI hospitals, and in home health. Since becoming a LPN, I have focused on our aging population and their quality of life and care. I set out each day looking for opportunities to make someone’s day better.

With Sequoia, we work closely as a team, making each interaction a priority. From Triage, Telehealth and in-person visits, our team is dedicated to you every step of the way.

Stephany at Sequoia

Stephany Grenzer, LPN Triage

I have over 22 years of experience working in healthcare as a caregiver and an LPN.  I am dedicated to providing care with compassion and empathy.  My goal is to build new relationships, inspire hope in patients’ healthcare journeys, help families find comfort in our healthcare team, and continue to expand in my career development.  I live by the quote, “When you have a dream, you’ve got to grab it and never let go.”

When not at work, you can find me with my husband of 21 years, my daughter who is 18, and son who is 13.  Much of my time is spent with a basketball and a court of some sort with my children.  My hobbies are camping, hiking, sports, and spending time with family.  
Jessalyn at Sequoi

Jessalyn Connell, RRT, Administrator

With a robust career spanning 14 years in healthcare and 9 years as a dedicated Registered Respiratory Therapist, Jessalyn brings a wealth of experience and expertise to patient care. 

Passionate about championing patient-centric and accessible healthcare, Jessalyn believes that every patient deserves personalized and easily accessible healthcare tailored to their unique needs.

 

Beyond her professional pursuits, Jessalyn enjoys spending quality time with her family, practicing yoga for holistic well-being, and honing her skills in photography. 

Her diverse interests and dedication to patient advocacy make her an invaluable asset in the healthcare community, embodying a compassionate and patient-centered approach to healthcare delivery.  Sequoia is excited to have Jessalyn join our team!

Not pictured:

  • Dr. Katie Gesch, DO, Medical Director
  • Elizabeth Atkinson, Director of Admissions & Business Development
  • Luella Krautkramer, Administrative Project Manager
  • Traci Augustine, RN
  • Christine Schuessler, RN, Triage Nurse
  • Katie Hagerstrom, MSN, WCC, AGNP-BC
  • Christie Henke, APNP, ANP-BC
  • Nicole Brown, NP

DO YOU HAVE INSURANCE QUESTIONS?

LET US HELP!

What does my insurance cover?  Do I qualify for a better policy?  Can I use my policy for Sequoia’s services?

Jan Bosin, Licensed Independent Insurance Agent

Jan Bosin

Licensed Independent Insurance Agent

Sometimes we get asked if our services qualify for insurance, and the answer is, YES!

Jan Bosin specializes in Medicare and Health Insurance. We are excited to have Jan join our team. We want to be sure that when our clinical staff is asked questions regarding a patient’s health insurance, we can refer to a specialist who can confidently address those concerns.
Please contact Jan if you have any questions about what you or your loved one may qualify for!

Sequoia accepts Medicaid, Medicare, as well as private insurance. We are dedicated to working with your insurance to find the best care for you at a reasonable cost!

Call or text: 920.585.1538
Email: jab6453@live.com

SEQUOIA CAREERS

Click below for each position's job description & qualifications.

Interested in working at Sequoia?

We are always taking applications!