Leading the Way: BHSN’s Vision for Integrated Care in 2025

President and CEO Katherine Cook Photo Credit to Strictly Business

In 2025, leadership was not just about navigating change but about strengthening internal systems, being nimble and planning for the future.  

Recently, our President and CEO Katherine Cook joined regional leaders at the 36^th Annual Strictly Business Forum to discuss the evolving landscape of the North Country. Amid political uncertainty and workforce shifts, the message from Table Four was clear: Resilience is built through Integrity and Connection.  

A Year of Measured Growth and Stability 

Under Katherine’s leadership, 2025 was defined by stronger organizational alignment and meeting critical financial targets. “Our systems became more stable, our workforce more supported, and our internal culture more cohesive,” Katherine shared during the forum. This focus on internal systems has led to significant staff retention, allowing BHSN to be a leader in employment in the region.  

Transforming the Rural Model 

When asked about the single most exciting opportunity for our region, Katherine’s vision was ambitious: positioning the North Country as a national model for rural, integrated, community-based care.  

By partnering with local anchors like CVPH, SUNY, and the Plattsburgh Housing Authority, BHSN is moving beyond “siloed” efforts to a shared vision for the region. We are tackling the social determinants of health (like housing and childcare) to ensure that behavioral health care is accessible to everyone, regardless of their zip code.  

The BHSN Legacy: 150 Years and Beyond 

Katherine noted, BHSN is has been a pillar of community support, a 150-year-old institution that is “not going anywhere.” We are building a future-ready system where our employees and the people we serve find safety, belonging, and purpose. As we lead with integrity and thrive through connection, we invite our community to join us in this vision.  

Want to read more about Katherine’s thoughts on federal policy, workforce housing, and the future of the North Country?  Read the full “Guiding Growth: Business, Policy, and Opportunity” article by Strictly Business NY here.