Paul Beatrice, Chief Executive Officer of New Vista, the community mental health center serving central Kentucky, announced his retirement during the New Vista Board of Directors’ meeting in January. Beatrice will leave the organization at the end of the year.

“During Paul’s tenure as CEO, New Vista has met the challenges of an ever-changing healthcare landscape while staying true to our mission to serve Kentuckians who have limited resources to meet their behavioral health needs. New Vista is well-positioned for sustainability and future growth as the result of Paul’s dedication and innovative leadership,” said Linda Watt, New Vista Board of Directors Chair.

New Vista is one of the largest behavioral health providers in Kentucky, offering more than 106 programs in 55 locations. Beatrice was named CEO in February 2014. He has more than 35 years of experience in behavioral health leadership. Under Beatrice’s leadership, staff grew 53 percent to employ more than 2,000 Kentuckians who provide mental health, substance use and intellectual and developmental disability services to more than 25,000 children, adults and families annually.

“New Vista’s role is a vital one. As a nonprofit organization, our focus is on meeting the needs of the child, the adult and the family with limited resources. There is a stigma associated with mental health and substance use services, and our work will continue to break down those barriers and help people reach their full potential. The staff at New Vista improves the lives of so many, and I am proud of our many accomplishments over the years. During this period of transition, I along with the executive team, will continue to do good work, create new programs and live our mission,” said Beatrice.

The national search for a new CEO at New Vista will begin immediately. The process is expected to take several months, with Beatrice’s successor to be named in 2020.