SPRINGFIELD-The board of directors of Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS) announced today the appointment of Anne Bilodeau as the organization's next chief executive officer, effective April 1.
Bilodeau has been with HCRS since 2019 and has served as chief operating officer for the past four years. In this role, she has played a central part in advancing the agency's mission and strengthening its operations.
As CEO, Bilodeau will provide overall strategic and operational leadership for the nonprofit organization, working closely with the board of directors to set vision and direction, ensuring strong financial stewardship, and foster a positive organizational culture in support of HCRS' mental health, substance use, and developmental services.
Bilodeau "brings a deep commitment to our mission, strong operational expertise, and a clear vision for the future of community mental health services in our region," Phil Blackburn, chair of HCRS' board of directors, said in a news release.
Bilodeau will succeed George Karabakakis, Ph.D., who will retire at the end of June, following 32 years of service to HCRS. Under Karabakakis's leadership, HCRS expanded to 20 locations and annual revenue exceeding $70 million.
"George will be remembered for his focus on building strong relationships, developing innovative programming, and consistently making decisions based on doing what is right," Blackburn added.
Bilodeau joined HCRS as chief human resources officer six months prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, when her leadership during an unprecedented period was highly regarded by staff and clients alike. She was promoted to chief operating officer in 2022, and in that role, she spearheaded the agency's efforts to become certified as a Community Behavioral Health Center (CCBHC).
She also led HCRS' contract with the Department of Mental Health to deliver statewide Enhanced Mobile Crisis services in partnership with Vermont's nine other designated community mental health agencies-the first collaboration of its kind in the state's community mental health system, according to the news release. In addition, Bilodeau has been instrumental in advancing the use of technology to improve operational efficiency and support service delivery.
She is an active member of Vermont Care Partners' network of community mental health agencies and serves as treasurer on the Board of Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. She holds a bachelor's in political science from Regis College and a master's in professional studies from Pennsylvania State University.
She is widely respected for her expertise in program management, fostering cross-agency partnerships, and driving system innovation. Her leadership has been characterized as a strong dedication to integrating forward-thinking solutions that directly benefit the people and communities served by HCRS.
"I am honored to have the opportunity to lead this incredible organization and to build on the strong foundation created under George's leadership," said Bilodeau. "The dedication of HCRS staff and the impact of the services provided to thousands of people across southeastern Vermont are truly inspiring."
Karabakakis will remain at the agency through June to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
"I have every confidence in Anne's ability to take on this role and know that HCRS will continue to thrive under her leadership,"said Karabakakis.
HCRS provides mental health, substance use, and developmental services to individuals and families throughout Windham and Windsor counties. Visit hcrs.org for more information.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.