By Aubrey Vargas
•
September 26, 2025
Chicopee, MA — The Mental Health Association, Inc. (MHA) is pleased to announce the promotion of six key leaders within the organization, aimed at further enhancing its commitment to providing high-quality health services. Sarah Smith has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer, Christine Palmieri to Chief Operating Officer, Amy Conklin to Vice President of Recovery Services, Olivia Bernstein to Vice President of Supportive Housing Services, Sara Kyser to Vice President of Quality and Professional Development, and Ebonie Bethea to Vice President of New Way Services. Each of these dynamic leaders brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in their respective areas. Sarah Smith, formerly Vice President of Fiscal, will now oversee MHA’s financial operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic growth. Christine Palmieri, who previously served as Senior Vice President of the Division of Recovery and Housing, will lead the organization in streamlining operations while enhancing the quality of care provided to clients. Amy Conklin, transitioning from her role as Senior Director of Residential Recovery Services, will focus on advancing MHA’s recovery programs, fostering a supportive environment for individuals on their journey to wellness. Olivia Bernstein, who previously held the position of Senior Director of Supportive Housing, will continue to expand housing services that play a critical role in the recovery process. Sara Kyser, who previously served as Vice President of New Way Services and Professional Development will now oversee MHA’s Quality Department, bringing with her decades of experience in program leadership, licensing, compliance, and policy development across multiple contracts. Ebonie Bethea previously served as Senior Director for Residential Services of MHA’s New Way Division and will now lead the strategic vision for all acquired brain injury programming as Vice President of New Way Services. “We are thrilled to promote such talented individuals who are deeply committed to our mission,” said Cheryl Fasano, President & CEO of MHA. “These roles will help us scale our operations and streamline processes. MHA remains dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by mental health challenges and is excited to embark on this new chapter of growth and innovation." For more information about MHA and its services, please visit www.mhainc.org or contact Jennifer Ducharme, Vice President of Development & Community Relations at jducharme@mhainc.org or (413)233-5343. MHA (Mental Health Association) helps people live their best life. MHA provides access to therapies for emotional health and wellness; services for substance use recovery, developmental disabilities and acquired brain injury; services for housing and residential programming, and more. With respect, integrity, and compassion, MHA provides each individual served through person-driven programming to foster independence, community engagement, wellness, and recovery. To learn more, visit www.mhainc.org.
