Prairie Lakes Wellness Center Superintendent Theresa Hillis Announces Retirement

Theresa Hillis, superintendent of the Prairie Lakes Wellness Center, has announced she will retire from her role effective December 5, 2025

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Theresa Hillis, superintendent of the Prairie Lakes Wellness Center, has announced she will retire from her role effective December 5, 2025.

Hillis joined the City of Watertown team in 2022 and, over the past three years, led a series of operational and programmatic improvements at the Wellness Center.

Under her leadership, membership increased from 2,829 in August 2022 to 3,790 in August 2025, peaking seasonally at over 4,000 members earlier this year. Hillis also developed staff training programs, established CPR and First Aid training opportunities, and guided upgrades in marketing, budgeting, and customer service.

“In taking an already excellent facility and putting into place processes and procedures to take it to the next level, my goal has always been better service for our members,” Hillis said in announcing her retirement.

City officials said Hillis’s early announcement gives the City valuable time to begin a deliberate hiring process and ensure a smooth transition for staff and members. The administration thanked Hillis for her leadership and service and extended best wishes for her retirement in December.

The City invites the community to join in recognizing Hillis’s contributions and the positive difference she has made at the Prairie Lakes Wellness Center.

For more information about the transition or the hiring timeline, members may contact the City of Watertown.