PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Brien Center, the leading provider of behavioral health services in Berkshire County, announces the appointment of Diana L. Knaebe as its new president and CEO effective July 1.

 

Knaebe brings more than 35 years of experience in the behavioral health-care sector, holding key leadership positions across various renowned organizations. Her impressive track record includes leading non-profit and governmental organizations and serving on the board of a national behavioral health networking organization.

 

She was president of Memorial Behavioral Health and system administrator of Behavioral Health at

Memorial Health System in Springfield, Ill. Additionally, she has held significant roles such as the state

director of the Illinois Division of Mental Health and president/CEO of Heritage Behavioral Health Center in

Decatur, Ill. 

 

Knaebe's career began as a therapist in her home state of Michigan, where she and the organizations

she led received numerous state and national awards for excellence in behavioral health. She is a graduate of San Diego State University, earning a bachelor's in psychology, and holds a master of social work degree from Western Michigan University. 

 

Current President and CEO Chris Macbeth, who announced her retirement last December, expressed confidence in Knaebe's leadership. 

 

"I am delighted to welcome Diana to the Brien Center. Our board conducted a nationwide search and Diana's extensive background in behavior health leadership will be a great help as the Brien Center continues its mission in our community," she said.

 

Linda Febles, board chair at the Brien Center, also shared her enthusiasm for Knaebe's appointment, 

 

"Diana is known for being a sound manager, an innovative leader, and a courageous change agent. She is a strong communicator who works cooperatively with various stakeholders to find common ground and reach consensus," she said. "Diana leverages her expertise in servant leadership, strategic organization development, and systems thinking to provide vision and leadership for comprehensive, effective systems."

 

Knaebe said she is "excited and honored to take this leadership role with the Brien Center. The unwavering passion and dedication of the board and staff, the longevity of your services, and your organizational pride are a testament to the high-quality, caring nature of the Brien

Center. 

 

"I am deeply impressed by the Brien Center, and my husband and I envision a fulfilling professional and

personal life enriched by the beautiful Berkshires and the remarkable community that is the Brien Center."