KINGSFORD — Northpointe Behavioral Healthcare System on Thursday provided an update on Jennifer Cescolini’s decision to step down as CEO, effective Oct. 31.

Chief Operating Officer Brent Johnson released this statement from Cescolini:

“I have officially resigned as the CEO of Northpointe Behavioral Health Care System effective Oct. 31, 2024. Due to recent health concerns, it became evident that stress was causing great havoc on my body and on my most prized relationships. I have been off work to recover physically from these health issues, but I have realized that the emotional healing was equally important. My heart and soul have been devoted to the mission of improving lives and to creating a family of staff who feel appreciated and respected. This is an unanticipated detour in my journey, but I will not give up on improving behavioral health care in our communities and plan to support Northpointe’s mission in some undetermined capacity.”

Johnson said Cescolini is working with the Northpointe leadership team to ensure a smooth transition.

Cescolini has been in the position of CEO for five years but recently her time at Northpointe had become tumultuous.

In March, the Menominee County Board of Commissioners had passed a vote of no confidence in Cescolini, citing differences over crisis care services.

Cescolini, for her part, had begun attending county board meetings to improve communications. At the May meeting of the Iron County Board, she noted Northpointe’s expansion of school-based services and intensive outpatient services she said have led to decreased hospitalizations.

Northpointe, a community mental health service provider, serves Iron, Dickinson and Menominee counties. It is governed by a 12-member board, with five representatives each from Dickinson and Menominee counties and two from Iron County, each appointed by the respective county boards.

It provides services for those with severe emotional, behavioral, intellectual or developmental disabilities and has offices in Kingsford, Iron River and Menominee. About 94% of Northpointe’s funding comes through Medicaid, 5% through state general funds and county appropriations of 1%.