Letter from the Chairman of the Board

Anita Ronis announced on January 25 her intention to retire as Executive Director of Freedom Institute effective on February 28. The Board of Directors, staff, and entire family of Freedom Institute want to thank Anita for her hard work and accomplishments on our behalf as Executive Director over these past three years. Following in the footsteps of such a distinguished leader as Connie Murray is never easy. Yet Anita has led us with dedication, and has initiated important new business practices for Freedom Institute.

Now we move to the next step, always consistent with the vision of Mona Mansell. The Board of Directors, and our donors, remain deeply committed to Freedom Institute. Michael Noth and Rachel Russell have agreed to serve as co-directors of our programs on an interim basis, overseeing the clinical and administrative functions, respectively. Both are hugely experienced and have been valued senior staff members for a considerable time.

The Board has appointed a Search Committee to find a new Executive Director. The Committee is chaired by Clarke Keough and includes Peter Boeschenstein, Jessica Ambrose, Mary Bohnen and Lisa Abroms Herz. Connie Murray will be a consultant to the Search Committee, and Anita Ronis has agreed to provide advice as deliberations proceed.

The Search Committee has been asked to consider both inside and outside candidates. Given the extraordinary stature of Freedom Institute in the world of alcohol and substance abuse counseling and treatment, very worthy candidates for the position of Executive Director of Freedom Institute have already called and I encourage any further candidates to send a cover letter and resume to Clarke Keough at FIsearchcommittee@yahoo.com or via fax at 212.207.8119.

Freedom Institute is a unique and thriving facility. We will go on to the next natural stage of evolution and growth, thankful to Anita for carrying us with dedication through her tenure.

Warm Regards,

Henry Christensen III
Chairman of the Board

Letter of farewell from our Executive Director

Anita Ronis, LMSW, CASAC

Dear Friends of Freedom Institute,

After having had the privilege of serving as the Executive Director of Freedom Institute for the past three years, it is time for me to step down. I reached this decision with considerable emotion, but in my heart I am a therapist and I want to spend more time counseling. This is where my passion truly lies.

I have been associated with Freedom Institute for more than eighteen years. I believe strongly in the mission of the Institute and the quality of the services it provides. I will continue in my role as a therapist and see clients here, as I want to help continue to carry forward that mission.

My personal growth during my tenure is beyond measure. I have enjoyed the many new bonds I have forged both inside and outside the walls of this Institute. I cherish each and every relationship with the people who make this Institute the outstanding facility that it is.

I am proud of our dedicated team of professionals and administrators who have forged ahead, in spite of the many challenges in our global economy, and have provided more services to more clients each year and increased the Institute's revenues. It is your commitment to Freedom Institute's mission that will continue to support the work that lies ahead. You are all extraordinary not only because of what you do, but also because of who you are.

I am deeply grateful to the Institute's donors, who find a way to support us year after year, regardless of doom and gloom in the financial headlines. Without your loyalty we simply would not exist.

Freedom Institute remains committed to serving the many people who come through our doors willing to open their minds, hearts, and souls to allow healing to occur. The Institute will continue to grow and evolve in carrying out the mission of our founder, Mona Mansell: to provide the highest caliber counseling and a full range of services to alcoholics and substance abusers and their families.

Freedom Institute will always hold a special place in my heart, as it does in the hearts of so many.

Warmly,

Anita Ronis, LMSW, CASAC