Council for Relationships Announces the Appointment of Four New Board Members
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New board members bring a diverse set of expertise and experiences and a common passion for increasing access to the highest quality mental health services.
October 6, 2023 | Philadelphia-based mental health non-profit organization, Council for Relationships (CFR), is proud to welcome the following four new members to its Board of Directors: Mr. Lloyd Scott Bashkin, Dr. Claudia F. Curry, Mr. Robert M. Dever, and Dr. Gary D. Williams Sr. The addition of these esteemed individuals brings CFR’s Board of Directors to a total of 20 members.
“I’m encouraged by the diversity, experience, and fiduciary oversight expertise that our new Board Members bring to the Council for Relationships,” Board Chairperson Michael Veloric said. “It is my privilege to lead CFR as we strive to expand access to life-saving mental health services, strengthen relationships, and continue to address our community’s ever-changing mental health care needs.”
“We are fortunate to welcome such an acclaimed group of new board members with a diverse set of skills and experiences,” CFR Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jeannine L. Lisitski said. “These individuals will help to position the Council for Relationships to reach further towards achieving our vision of thriving relationships and flourishing communities.”
Mr. Lloyd Scott Bashkin has been instrumental in transforming companies of all sizes into unparalleled success. In his role as CEO of Lloyd Scott & Company, he serves as a business coach and consultant. In recent years, he has dedicated his expertise to nurturing the growth of small to mid-sized businesses and professional firms.
“It is with great enthusiasm that I accept a position on the board with the Council for Relationships. CFR is an esteemed organization that has been at the forefront of providing exceptional therapy, education, and support services to individuals, couples, and families,” Mr. Bashkin said, “[CFR’s} dedication to strengthening relationships and improving the mental well-being of our community has always resonated with me, and I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute to their mission in this capacity.”
Dr. Claudia F. Curry is an author and retired higher education administrator devoted to life-long learning, who has a track record for developing organizations and programs designed to improve one’s quality of life through education and training. She served nearly 20 years as the Founding Director of the Community College of Philadelphia Women’s Outreach and Advocacy Center and as the Founding Director of the Urban League of Philadelphia Leadership Institute.
“It is exciting to know that Council for Relationships provides valuable therapeutic and psychological support for all people despite their social and economic status,” said Dr. Curry. “I want to share my talents and higher education experience and become more knowledgeable about a critical resource for families and individuals.”
Mr. Robert M. Dever is a United States Army Veteran, and entrepreneur, and served as the CEO of a farmers’ cooperative with over 4,000 dairy farmers in seven states, before retiring.
“I want to be able to make a contribution,” Mr. Dever said, “and I believe CFR offers me that opportunity.”
Dr. Gary D. Williams Sr. currently serves as Deputy Commissioner for the Policy Planning and System Enhancement Division at the Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS). He has been with DHS for 25 years and has provided leadership in various capacities such as Specialized Child Protective Service investigations; Family Preservation/Reunification services; and Cross-Over Youth practice implementation. He is a former trainer for Pennsylvania’s Child Welfare training program and has taught social workers how to facilitate in-home child safety assessments across Pennsylvania.
“I was drawn to CFR’s mission and core values,” Dr. Williams said. “[CFR is] uniquely aligned with my personal values and convictions to serve families and promote wellness within individuals.”
About Council for Relationships
Council for Relationships is a nonprofit organization founded in 1932 that strengthens interpersonal connections through accessible, specialized, and expert individual, relationship, and family therapy, clinical training, and research.
More than 85 therapists and psychiatrists provide counseling to individuals, couples, and families in person at 8 offices and community-based locations in the greater Philadelphia area and online across PA & NJ. Additionally, more than 75 clinical interns per year participating in CFR’s clinician education programs provide counseling on a sliding fee scale.
To learn more, visit www.councilforrelationships.org.
Media Contact
Michael Fasano-McCarron
Director of Communications and Development
Phone: 215-382-6680 ext. 3160
Email: mmccarron@councilforrelationships.org