Advocates Executive and Leadership Team

Wasif Khan, the Chief Executive Officer at Advocates, directs the overarching strategic vision for community-based support services. Khan architects long-term growth initiatives that expand access to mental health and developmental resources. By aligning organizational goals with the needs of individuals facing significant life challenges, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all programs remain focused on fostering independence and meaningful work. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to maintain financial sustainability while scaling service delivery across Massachusetts. Through rigorous oversight of program efficacy, Wasif Khan drives the mission of providing high-quality care to vulnerable populations. The Chief Executive Officer maintains a sharp focus on operational excellence, ensuring that every initiative directly supports the core objective of helping clients obtain stable housing and satisfying relationships. Ultimately, Khan secures the future of the organization by championing innovative care models that address complex health and addiction recovery needs.

Diane Gould, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Advocates, leads the executive team in executing the mission of providing comprehensive support for developmental and mental health challenges. Gould oversees the integration of clinical services with community-based outreach to ensure holistic care for all clients. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, the executive manages high-level partnerships that strengthen the organization's presence in the health services sector. This role requires balancing complex regulatory requirements with the need for compassionate, person-centered support systems. By fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, Diane Gould drives the organization toward achieving superior health outcomes for individuals navigating addiction or other significant life hurdles. The President & Chief Executive Officer maintains constant engagement with stakeholders to advocate for resources that sustain housing and employment programs. Through strategic leadership, Gould ensures that the organization remains a pillar of support for those seeking to achieve stability and wellness.

Alison Sanchez, the Executive Assistant To the President and Chief Executive Officer at Advocates, manages the complex administrative workflows that support executive decision-making. Sanchez coordinates communication between the leadership team and external partners to ensure seamless operational alignment. As the Executive Assistant To the President and Chief Executive Officer, the professional facilitates the scheduling and preparation of critical board meetings and strategic planning sessions. This role involves maintaining high-level oversight of organizational priorities to ensure that the President and Chief Executive Officer remains focused on core mission objectives. By streamlining internal processes and managing sensitive information, Alison Sanchez directly contributes to the efficiency of the executive office. The Executive Assistant To the President and Chief Executive Officer provides essential support that allows the leadership team to address the needs of individuals with developmental and mental health challenges effectively. Through meticulous organization, Sanchez enables the executive team to maintain a consistent focus on long-term growth and service quality.

Keith Neal, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Advocates, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the organization. Neal manages the budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation processes that sustain the delivery of essential mental health and developmental services. As the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, the executive ensures that all financial operations comply with regulatory standards while supporting the growth of community-based programs. This role involves analyzing revenue streams and cost structures to maximize the impact of every dollar spent on client care. By maintaining financial transparency and stability, Keith Neal drives the long-term viability of the organization. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer works closely with the Board to provide accurate financial reporting and strategic insights that inform future expansion. Through disciplined fiscal management, Neal secures the resources necessary to help individuals achieve stable housing, meaningful work, and improved health outcomes.

Thomas (Tom) Wagner, the Chief Operating Officer at Advocates, manages the internal infrastructure and logistical frameworks that support the delivery of health and rehabilitation services. Wagner directs the scaling of operational processes to ensure that community-based programs function with maximum efficiency. As the Chief Operating Officer, the executive oversees the deployment of resources across various facilities to meet the needs of individuals facing developmental or mental health challenges. This role involves streamlining workflows to improve the quality of care and the speed of service delivery. By optimizing internal systems, Thomas (Tom) Wagner drives the organization toward greater productivity and better client outcomes. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with other C-suite leaders to align operational capacity with the strategic goals of the organization. Through rigorous oversight of daily activities, Wagner ensures that the organization maintains a stable environment for both staff and clients, ultimately supporting the mission of fostering independence and health.

Carleton Gebhardt, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Advocates, architects the digital infrastructure and data security systems that support the organization's health services. Gebhardt directs the implementation of technology solutions that improve the coordination of care for individuals with developmental and mental health challenges. As the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, the executive oversees the management of electronic health records and internal communication platforms to ensure data integrity and accessibility. This role involves identifying emerging technologies that can enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. By modernizing the digital landscape, Carleton Gebhardt drives the organization toward a more data-informed approach to rehabilitation and support. The Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer collaborates with clinical teams to ensure that technology serves the needs of both staff and clients. Through strategic investment in IT, Gebhardt supports the mission of providing high-quality, reliable care to the community.

Ronald Harvey, the Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer at Advocates, coordinates the administrative functions that support the human resources department. Harvey manages the scheduling, documentation, and communication workflows that enable the Chief Human Resources Officer to focus on talent acquisition and employee development. As the Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer, the professional ensures that all HR-related initiatives are organized and executed in alignment with the organization's mission. This role involves maintaining records and facilitating meetings that address staffing needs for programs serving individuals with developmental and mental health challenges. By providing essential administrative support, Ronald Harvey drives the efficiency of the HR team. The Executive Assistant To Chief Human Resources Officer plays a vital role in maintaining a productive work environment for the staff who provide direct care to clients. Through careful attention to detail, Harvey supports the overall goal of fostering a skilled and dedicated workforce.

Janine Taylor, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Advocates, directs the talent strategy and organizational culture that support the delivery of high-quality health services. Taylor oversees recruitment, training, and retention programs designed to attract professionals dedicated to helping individuals with developmental and mental health challenges. As the Chief Human Resources Officer, the executive ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the mission of fostering independence and health. This role involves developing policies that promote employee well-being and professional growth, which directly impacts the quality of care provided to clients. By building a strong, motivated team, Janine Taylor drives the organization's ability to meet the complex needs of the community. The Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with other leaders to ensure that staffing levels and skill sets match the operational requirements of the organization. Through strategic HR management, Taylor supports the long-term success of the organization and its clients.

Mark Viron, the Chief Medical Officer at Advocates, directs the clinical standards and medical oversight for all programs serving individuals with developmental, mental health, and addiction challenges. Viron architects the clinical protocols that ensure safe, effective, and compassionate care for every client. As the Chief Medical Officer, the executive monitors health outcomes and ensures that all medical services comply with industry regulations and best practices. This role involves leading clinical teams in the development of treatment plans that help individuals achieve good health and stability. By integrating medical expertise with community-based support, Mark Viron drives the organization's commitment to holistic recovery. The Chief Medical Officer collaborates with other executives to ensure that clinical initiatives are supported by the necessary resources and infrastructure. Through rigorous medical leadership, Viron ensures that the organization remains a trusted provider of health services, ultimately helping clients obtain the care needed to lead fulfilling lives.

Shelby Kealy, the Managing Director at Advocates, oversees the daily execution of community-based programs designed to assist individuals with developmental and mental health challenges. Kealy directs the implementation of service models that promote independent living and meaningful employment. As the Managing Director, the executive monitors program performance metrics to ensure that all initiatives meet the high standards required for effective addiction recovery and health support. This role involves coordinating with department heads to optimize resource allocation and improve service delivery across the organization. By focusing on operational efficiency, Shelby Kealy drives the success of programs that help clients secure decent housing and build satisfying relationships. The Managing Director maintains a strong emphasis on quality assurance, ensuring that every service provided aligns with the mission of the organization. Through proactive management, Kealy supports the overall health and stability of the populations served, ensuring that the organization remains a leader in the health services sector.