WEST WARWICK – At the onset of its 35th anniversary celebrations, Tides Family Services announced Wednesday its CEO Brother Michael Reis will step down to serve as chief visionary officer while long-time employee Beth Bixby will take over for him as head of the Christian social services organization.
Founded in 1983 by Brother Michael Reis, Bixby will be the second person to lead the organization in its history and the first female CEO of a youth and family organization in the Lasallian District of Eastern North America, according to Tides.
Bixby, in a statement, said she was “honored and privileged” to succeed Reis. She also said that she was committed to building off the Christian Brother’s foundation and, “excited to take the organization into its next chapter.”
In prepared remarks Reis said he was “delighted” that Bixby was taking the reigns of an organization “so near and dear to my heart.”
His comments went on to say, “During the past 17 years, she’s clearly demonstrated to me and to everyone she’s worked with her exceptional leadership abilities as well as her unparalleled dedication to the children and families we serve. … Her experience is just what Tides needs in the next chapter of our history.”
Bixby, a Rhode Island native, has worked with Tides Family Services for 17 years in such positions as clinical supervisor, director of home based therapeutic services, assistant vice president, senior vice president of treatment programs and most recently as chief operating officer.
Born in Coventry, where she now resides with her family, Bixby, earned a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies from the University of Rhode Island. She later received a master’s degree in social work from Syracuse University. Locally, she is a member of the executive committee of the Rhode Island Coalition for Children and Family, past chair of the Membership Practice Committee, co-chair of the Workforce Development Committee and serves on the Planning Committee for the Lasallian National Huether Conference.
As chief visionary officer, Reis’ new role will focus on interactions with the community including advocacy, fundraising and serving as Lasallian Ministry Leader.
Throughout 2018, the nonprofit organization will mark its 35th anniversary with a series of special events spanning the calendar year.
Founded in 1983 with $15,000 seed money, today Tides employs 120 service providers and operates with an $8 million budget.
Emily Gowdey-Backus is a staff writer for PBN. You can follow her on Twitter @FlashGowdey or contact her via email, gowdey-backus@pbn.com.
