MIDDLETOWN – Newport Mental Health recently marked its 60th anniversary with an annual meeting at the Wyndham Newport Hotel.
The event brought 80 supporters, partners and community leaders together.
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Newport Mental Health was founded in 1964 with a goal to help those who work in the county. Since then, it has grown to be a behavioral health leader and is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic for Newport County.
CEO and President Dayna Gladstein led the meeting, highlighting several milestones, including CCBHC designation, a newly renovated space and growth in programs.
“As we look ahead in 2025, the road is filled with promise and we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and care,” Gladstein said. “Together, we are strengthening not only the lives of individuals but the entire fabric of our community.”
Heather Hole Strout, executive director of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, delivered a keynote address and received the organization’s Outstanding Community Service award.
“Heather is a dynamic and hands-on leader, tireless in her commitment to the MLK Center’s work to build a stronger and more inclusive community,” Gladstein said. “During her tenure, the MLK’s impact has grown exponentially, tripling the number of meals distributed and doubling the number of clients served to over 8,000 annually. In addition, she recently oversaw the largest construction project in the center’s history while simultaneously keeping all programming operational [at] four sites.”
Outstanding Service Recognition awards were also presented to:
- Elaine O’Donnell, front desk receptionist.
- Santino Parisi, senior health care data analyst.
- Bridget Santos, substance use specialist.
The organization’s highest honor, the J. Clement Cicilline award, went to therapist Paul Sanders.
Also, A. Lavaz Watson was elected treasurer during a board of directors meeting and longtime board member Barbara Winkler completed her term.
Katie Castellani is a PBN staff writer. You may contact her at Castellani@PBN.com.
