Home Industries Health Services Kleckner Charles named as Thrive’s next CEO

Kleckner Charles named as Thrive’s next CEO

By

Katie Castellani

-

09/06/2024

Dr. Kleckner Charles — THRIVE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH announced that Dr. Kleckner Charles will serve as the organization’s new CEO starting Oct. 15./COURTESY THRIVE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

WARWICK – Thrive Behavioral Health announced that Dr. Kleckner Charles will serve as the organization’s new CEO starting Oct. 15. Charles, who will become Thrive’s first Black CEO, has more than 30 years of experience in health care leadership. Most recently, he served as chief program officer for the city of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral

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WARWICK – Thrive Behavioral Health announced that Dr. Kleckner Charles will serve as the organization’s new CEO starting Oct. 15. Charles, who will become Thrive’s first Black CEO, has more than 30 years of experience in health care leadership. Most recently, he served as chief program officer for the city of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services in which he led county-wide projects that served thousands. Before then, Charles was CEO at The Arc Putnam in New York where he oversaw service lines that included clinic services, residential, case management and vocational services. “Thrive – and the behavioral health space at large – is at a pivotal moment. We are confident that Dr. Charles’ leadership will drive us forward as we adapt to the evolving needs of our community,” said Jennifer Wheelehon, chairwoman of the board of Thrive Behavioral Health. “His extensive background, strategic vision and unwavering commitment to advancing behavioral health make him the ideal leader to steer Thrive into a bright and dynamic future.” Charles has a doctorate in social work in innovations from the University of Southern California, a master’s degree in public administration with a focus on health administration and long-term care from the Long Island University as well as a bachelor’s in history from Stony Brook University. “Taking on the role of CEO at Thrive Behavioral Health is both a privilege and a personal mission,” Charles said. “Thrive has a remarkable legacy of comparison, innovation and dedication to serving our community, and I am eager to build on this strong foundation. Together, we will continue to enhance the lives of those we serve, ensuring that every individual receives the comprehensive, whole-person care they deserve.” Charles’ appointment comes as Thrive’s CEO, Dan Kubas-Meyer will be retiring at the end of October after leading the agency for 30 years. “As I step down from my role, I couldn’t be more confident in the future of Thrive Behavioral Health with Dr. Kleckner Charles taking the helm,” Kubas-Meyer said. “I have full faith that under his proven leadership, Thrive will continue to grow and flourish, serving our community with the dedication and compassion that has always been our hallmark.” Thrive, one of the state’s six certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, offers comprehensive mental health and substance use services. Katie Castellani is a PBN staff writer. You may contact her at Castellani@PBN.com.