The Brattleboro Retreat is pleased to announce that its Board of Trustees has voted to appoint Steve Cummings as Chief Executive Officer, following his tenure as Interim CEO since April 2024. With a distinguished career that blends clinical expertise and healthcare administration, Cummings brings a unique perspective and commitment to advancing patient care and supporting the Retreat’s mission.
“As Board Chair, I have full confidence in Steve’s ability to lead the Brattleboro Retreat into a new era. His vision and genuine commitment to supporting our staff have already made a difference,” said Thomas Huebner, Board Chair of the Brattleboro Retreat Board of Trustees.
Cummings has over 40 years of healthcare experience, starting as a registered nurse in neuro and pulmonary care, then moving to ICU critical care before earning an MBA from Babson College. He then embarked on a career spanning hospital administration, consulting, and working with electronic health record (EHR) vendors. "I've been on all sides of the table—hospital, vendor, and consultant—so I understand the complexities and can navigate them effectively," he said.
In his short time as Interim CEO, Cummings has already initiated several key projects that underscore his vision for the Retreat’s future. He is overseeing the implementation of Meditech, a new electronic health record system that will replace an outdated system. “The new system will streamline our operations, improve documentation processes, and make clinicians’ jobs easier,” he said.
Cummings is also leading efforts to revitalize the Retreat’s adolescent residential programming by proposing a new Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) on campus to serve youth aged 12 to 18. “As the only inpatient mental health services provider for children and adolescents in Vermont, I recognize the critical role we play in the lives of young people and their families.”
Cummings is dedicated to strengthening regional connections by collaborating with healthcare systems, advocacy groups, and donors to expand the Retreat's impact. “We have a powerful story to share about our commitment to treatment, advocacy, and education,” he shared. Cummings also hopes to revitalize the Retreat’s development efforts, creating opportunities for donors to support the institution’s essential work. “Our capabilities have grown significantly, and we want people to understand the crucial role we play in mental health care,” he said.
Cummings is excited to lead the Brattleboro Retreat into its next chapter, building on a foundation of financial stability and strong union relationships that position the organization for growth. “We now have the foundation to invest in new technologies and facilities, making our work more efficient and our employees happier. This momentum will help us attract and retain high-quality staff, reduce dependency on temporary workers, and ultimately provide better care for our patients,” Cummings explained.
The Brattleboro Retreat Board of Trustees is confident in Cummings’ vision and ability to guide the organization forward. His commitment to staff empowerment, technological advancement, and community collaboration promises to make a lasting impact on the Retreat’s future and the well-being of those it serves.
“We are fortunate to have a leader who truly understands the complexities of mental health care and is dedicated to continuing the Retreat's long legacy of providing exceptional care to our patients,” said Huebner.
