From left to right: Laura A. Bass, Kristine E. Biagiotti-Bridges, and Jill M. McNamara
The Baker Center for Children & Families (also known as Judge Baker Children’s Center), a national leader in children’s mental health, elected three new members to their Board of Trustees this summer.
The Board proudly welcomed Laura A. Bass, of Bristol Myers Squibb; Kristine E. Biagiotti-Bridges, of Dell Technologies; and Jill M. McNamara, of Care.com. Each new member brings a unique background that will complement their roles on the board of one of the oldest children’s mental health organizations in the country.
Laura comes from a combined background of biopharmaceutical experience and community volunteering and engagement. In her role as a scientist at Bristol Myers Squibb, she has been responsible for leading teams that develop life-changing treatments for those in need.
Kristine acts as an IT Business Partner at Dell, where her role allows her to champion important workplace diversity causes, including a neurodiversity hiring program. In addition, Kristine is a staunch advocate of many important causes, including the Boston Marathon.
In her role as Senior Director of Care for Business at Care.com, Jill has placed particular emphasis on supporting mental health, childcare, and special needs. In addition, she comes from a robust background of both mental health care and foster care.
“I am incredibly proud to be transitioning such a talented group of professionals onto our Board,” said Dr. Robert Franks, President and CEO of The Baker Center. “During this critical period where our nation’s families are facing a mental health crisis, their expertise and leadership will propel us forward as we evolve the ways we support the community.”
Under the leadership of Dr. Franks and the Board of Trustees, The Baker Center is poised to offer vital programs and services this coming year including expanded treatment offerings through the recently formed MetroWest Evidence-based Trauma-Informed Referral & Treatment Initiative for Children (METRIC), tangible improvements in the quality of mental health treatment via their Quality Care Initiative, and new community events such as The Baker SuperK.
ABOUT THE BAKER CENTER FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES:
An affiliate of Harvard Medical School, The Baker Center for Children and Families is a nationally recognized mental health organization dedicated to improving the quality of mental health care for children (ages 2-22), families, and caregivers. Originally named Judge Baker Children’s Center, in honor of Harvey Humphrey Baker, the first judge appointed to the Boston Juvenile Court, the Center opened in 1917 and serves children and families of Greater Boston and the MetroWest region.
The Baker Center is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families by bridging the gap between science and practice to improve access to the highest quality care in community-based settings. Their life-changing mental health and special education programs include Camp Baker, Center for Effective Therapy (CET), Manville School, and Next Step: College Success & Independent Living.