Change is often bittersweet—especially when it involves someone who has played such an important role in making Country Willows feel like home.
After many years in hospitality and the health industry, our Innkeeper Lisa has stepped into what she fondly calls “semi-retirement.” While she is stepping away from the day-to-day responsibilities of running the inn, we’re delighted that this isn’t goodbye.
“This wasn’t an easy decision because caring for our guests and being part of Country Willows has been incredibly rewarding,” Lisa shared. “The inn has been much more than a workplace to me. It’s been a place where I’ve built meaningful relationships, celebrated special moments with guests, and worked alongside an amazing team.”
Lisa will remain an important part of the Country Willows family in a new role, mentoring and supporting our new Innkeeper and General Manager while continuing to contribute in the areas she loves most.
For Lisa, semi-retirement isn’t simply about slowing down. It’s about making more room for the people, passions, and experiences that matter most—while still helping preserve the warmth and genuine hospitality that have always made Country Willows so special.
Stepping into the role of Innkeeper and General Manager is Dakota, a familiar face within the Country Willows family. Most recently, Dakota managed our sister property, The Palm Motel and Cottages, where he gained valuable experience overseeing daily operations and caring for guests.
Dakota also brings an impressive culinary background to the inn. After high school, he attended culinary trade school and earned a certificate from Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts. His professional experience has included serving as an assistant chef at Rellik Winery, executive catering chef at Southern Oregon University, and sous chef at Rogue Valley Manor.
His combination of hospitality leadership, culinary experience, and familiarity with our sister property makes Dakota a natural fit for this new role. He understands that a memorable stay is about much more than a beautiful room or a wonderful breakfast—it’s about making guests feel genuinely welcomed and cared for from the moment they arrive.
As Lisa embraces her next season and Dakota settles into his new position, Country Willows continues forward with the same spirit of thoughtful hospitality our guests know and love. We’re grateful for everything Lisa has brought to the inn, excited for what lies ahead for her, and delighted to welcome Dakota into his new role.
Please join us in wishing Lisa a joyful semi-retirement and congratulating Dakota as he begins this new chapter at Country Willows.
