Kara Bell-Fiske selected as executive director for Student Health and Counseling Services
Friday, June 13, 2025
Kara Bell-Fiske has been named the executive director for Student Health and Counseling Services. She is a distinguished executive leader, operations strategist and compliance expert with more than 30 years of experience in health care, business operations and corporate leadership. From serving as a chief executive officer to leading multi-state health care enterprises, her expertise spans regulatory compliance, financial management, strategic planning and operational restructuring.
“We are thrilled to have Kara Fiske join the K-State team as our new executive director for Student Health and Counseling Services,” said Kathleen Hatch, Morrison Family associate vice president for student well-being. “Kara brings a tremendous background and extensive experience in health care leadership. Her deep passion for ensuring easy access for comprehensive mental and physical health services are just one of her many assets. She will lead a very talented team forward to keep health as essential ingredients for student success.”
As the former CEO of CKF Addiction Treatment, Fiske spearheaded the organization’s strategic direction, overseeing multi-site operations and service lines, including residential care, outpatient programs and telehealth services. Her leadership is instrumental in enhancing financial sustainability while fostering an environment of innovation and compassionate care.
Prior to her current role, Fiske served as the orthopaedics division practice director at Spectrum Healthcare Management Services in Portland, Maine, where she led a strategic reorganization that led the physicians to return to a physician-owned independent practice. She has also served as vice president and regional director of operations for Community Health Systems and DaVita Dialysis.
Her dedication extends to board and advisory roles, where she actively contributes to nonprofit organizations and community initiatives. She serves on the board of directors with Combat Connect and she is proud to be a United States Army veteran.
Fiske holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in sociology from Kansas Wesleyan University. She is a certified medical practice executive, a licensed nursing home administrator in multiple states, and a former certified law enforcement officer with expertise in criminal investigations.
“I am very excited to join Kansas State University and the Lafene Health Center team,” said Fiske. “I believe strongly in my personal creed, which is focused on character, knowledge, strategy and communication. I try to apply these traits to all aspects of my life.”