Cheryl Winterich, VP of Strategic Planning, has been with CDC for 42 years. Our most tenured employee, Cheryl grew up in Lakewood. She attended Ohio State University and graduated with a specialized bioengineering degree in Circulation Technology. She was the first woman to be accepted into this program. Cheryl is trained in cardiac assist, heart lung bypass, dialysis, organ recovery and preservation.
Cheryl Winterich
Q&A with Cheryl
What attracted you to CDC, and what about CDC kept you here for 42 years?
My original goal was to work in cardiac research after graduating. I was not particularly fond of dialysis and renal. The economy was bad in the mid-seventies. The research lab at Case and UH was basically shut down due to lack of funding. I was not interested in spending every day in the OR doing heart cases. I found out about a new community-based outpatient dialysis center that was opening. I promised that I would stay for a year. The original group of staff were extremely committed. The organization was committed to providing the best products and equipment available regardless of cost. The artificial kidneys selected for use I had only used in the animal lab. They were too expensive at OSU for the regular care of patients. The commitment of the original board members was impressive. This has not wavered in all my years at CDC. The organization is truly committed to providing the best possible care for all patients, regardless of ability to pay. It is extremely gratifying to work for this organization.
Over the course of 42 years at CDC, what is your greatest organizational accomplishment?
The elimination of certificate of need in 1996 was a critical time for CDC and its survival. I worked with Diane Wish, retired CEO, and the independent nephrologists to expand the number of facilities. This secured the stability of CDC and its ability to continue to provide care to all patients. It allowed CDC to continue to be the safety net provider that it still is today.
In your opinion, what are the best qualities of CDC employees and the organization’s culture?
Commitment to our patients. Supporting each other. I value the skills and knowledge of all of those that I work with. We are always learning something new from each other. The organization cares about the staff and is always looking for ways to improve staff satisfaction. The number of long-term employees is impressive. We are truly a family and community.
Cheryl has been married to her husband, Jim, for 46 years. They have a daughter who resides in Boston.