Barber National Institute Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Barber National Institute has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, finance, and human resources.

Dedicated to fostering independence and personal growth, Barber National Institute provides comprehensive behavioral health and intellectual disabilities services, serving over 5,400 individuals and their families across Pennsylvania with a commitment to community involvement and global professional development.

Leadership Roles at Barber National Institute

  • Chief Financial Officer - Jean Nielsen
  • Chief Operating Officer - Deborah Burbules
  • Chief Information Officer - Richard Ong
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Deron Lehman
  • Jean Nielsen - Chief Financial Officer

    Jean Nielsen, the Chief Financial Officer at Barber National Institute, directs all financial planning, accounting, and reporting functions. Nielsen manages the fiscal health of the organization, ensuring sustainable funding for comprehensive behavioral health and intellectual disabilities services across Pennsylvania. This leadership position involves overseeing budgets for programs supporting early intervention, autism services, education, and family support, directly impacting the institute's capacity to serve over 5,400 individuals. By implementing robust financial controls and strategies, Jean Nielsen safeguards the institute's resources and supports its mission of fostering independence and personal growth. Nielsen also guides financial aspects of global training and development initiatives.

    Deborah Burbules - Chief Operating Officer

    Deborah Burbules, the Chief Operating Officer at Barber National Institute, manages the day-to-day operations of all service delivery programs. Burbules oversees the execution of strategies designed to foster independence and personal growth for children and adults with behavioral health and intellectual disabilities across Pennsylvania. This critical role involves ensuring the highest standards of care in early intervention, education, and family support services. By optimizing resource allocation and operational workflows, Deborah Burbules enhances the institute's ability to serve over 5,400 individuals and their families effectively. Burbules also coordinates with training and development departments, reinforcing the institute's mission through efficient and impactful service provision.

    Richard Ong - Chief Information Officer

    Richard Ong, the Chief Information Officer at Barber National Institute, directs all technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing the integration of advanced systems, Ong ensures seamless data management and secure access to critical information supporting the institute's extensive behavioral health and intellectual disabilities services. This leadership role involves architecting scalable IT solutions that enhance operational efficiency across all programs, from early intervention to autism support. By driving technological innovation, Richard Ong directly impacts the institute's capacity to serve over 5,400 individuals and their families. Ong's focus extends to global training initiatives, ensuring technology supports professional development and the dissemination of best practices in care and support for those with developmental challenges.

    Deron Lehman - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Deron Lehman, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Barber National Institute, leads all talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development initiatives. Lehman cultivates a supportive work environment essential for delivering comprehensive behavioral health and intellectual disabilities services across Pennsylvania. This role is pivotal in attracting and retaining skilled professionals dedicated to fostering independence and personal growth for children and adults. By developing strategic HR policies, Deron Lehman ensures the institute's workforce is equipped to effectively serve over 5,400 individuals and their families. Lehman also oversees HR functions supporting global training and development, reinforcing the institute's commitment to excellence in care and professional advancement.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Barber National Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Barber National Institute?
    Barber National Institute is led by Jean Nielsen (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Deborah Burbules (Chief Operating Officer) and Richard Ong (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Barber National Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of Barber National Institute includes leaders such as Jean Nielsen (Chief Financial Officer), Deborah Burbules (Chief Operating Officer), Richard Ong (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Barber National Institute have?
    Barber National Institute has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Barber National Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Barber National Institute includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.