Greater Mental Health of New York has announced that Gerald Stern, CEO of Her Honor Mentoring, has been named president of its Board of Directors effective Jan 1. Stern brings decades of leadership experience in business, nonprofit management and community engagement to this position, along with a profound commitment to creating accessible and affordable mental health care for individuals and families.
A lifelong Westchester resident, Stern has served on the Greater Mental Health Board since 2012 and is a 2020 graduate of Leadership Westchester, a program that emphasizes values- driven leadership. In addition to his role as chief operating officer (COO) at Her Honor Mentoring, an organization that empowers young women by connecting them with mentors and growth opportunities, Stern also serves as president of WOW Production Services, a consulting firm specializing in digital strategies for brands and organizations. Prior to his appointment as board president, he served as president-elect and has also held executive positions on the board of birectors, including vice president, secretary and development committee chair. Throughout his professional and volunteer roles, Stern is known for passionately helping community members find their paths and live their best possible lives.
“Gerald Stern’s leadership comes at a pivotal moment for our organization and for community mental health more broadly,” said Stacey Roberts, LCSW, CEO of Greater Mental Health of New York. “He brings a rare combination of strategic insight, operational experience and a deep understanding of our region. As board president, Gerald will help guide our efforts to strengthen services, expand access to care and ensure our organization is positioned for long-term impact.”
Emphasizing collaboration and strategic leadership, Stern said, “I am proud to serve as Greater Mental Health’s new board president. At a time when the mental health landscape is becoming more complex, strong governance and clear strategic alignment are essential. My focus is on strengthening the partnership between the board and organizational leadership so Greater Mental Health can continue to expand access to care, deepen its community impact and build a sustainable path forward.”
Greater Mental Health also extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mary F. Foster for serving as the board president with distinction. Foster has been a cornerstone of Greater Mental Health’s Board of Directors since 1992, serving in numerous roles, including treasurer, vice president, and, most recently, president. She will continue to serve on the board as treasurer. Under her leadership, Greater Mental Health successfully navigated a major merger, strengthened its programs and partnerships and earned recognition across New York state. Foster was recently honored as the Mental Health Association of New York State Joe Lemmond Volunteer of the Year, a testament to her unwavering commitment to mental health and volunteerism.
“Mary’s leadership as board president has helped guide Greater Mental Health through an important period of growth and transition,” said Roberts. “Her steady leadership, institutional knowledge and deep commitment to expanding access to mental health care have had a lasting impact on our organization and the communities we serve. We are deeply grateful for her service and will continue to build on the foundation she helped strengthen.”
Greater Mental Health of New York is a nonprofit that transforms lives and strengthens communities through direct care, education and advocacy. For 80 years, it has helped people with serious mental health issues and complex needs who have nowhere else to turn. More than half of its services take place in homes, schools and other community spaces. By meeting people where they are, it builds healthier, safer and more connected communities. When everyone belongs, all thrive.
