The Howard Center in Burlington has tapped Sandra McGuire, the organization's chief financial and operations officer for the last 10 years, to be its next CEO. She will begin work June 1, succeeding Bob Bick, who is retiring May 31.
In her new role, McGuire will be responsible for the oversight of all agency operations, including 50-plus programs serving the mental health, substance use and developmental needs of Vermonters in more than 60 locations in three counties.
“McGuire stood out in a robust field of national candidates,” said board president Kelly Deforge, “for her deep understanding of the agency’s operational and fiscal needs; thoughtful and collaborative approach to leadership; passion for the mission; and commitment to excellence and inclusivity for our clients, staff and community.”
With a staff of 1,600 and a budget of $134 million, Howard Center is a community cornerstone offering critical and lifesaving support to over 19,000 community members each year. McGuire has been with the agency through significant growth and service expansion and has served in several roles during her 25-year tenure with center She is a graduate of Virginia Tech University and holds an MBA from Champlain College.