Western Montana Mental Health Center names psychologist as new CEO

A psychologist and former professor will take command of the Western Montana Mental Health Center as its new CEO, just as the organization deals with significant state funding cuts.

Kevin Griffith, who recently served as director of the Student Counseling Center at Indiana University, begins the job on Jan. 22. He replaces Jody Daly, who has taken a new position in Yakima, Washington.

“He'll be one of the few people who have led this type of organization,” said Mary Windecker. “We've experienced long-standing CEOs and they've each brought a different element to the service. We're excited to see what he brings to the organization.”

Griffith also served as the founder and CEO of Trinity Case Management Services in South Bend, Indiana, where he led a multi-site organization of behavioral health, case management and disability services.

As the new CEO, he'll oversee Western Montana Mental Health Center's 800 employees, who serve 16 western Montana counties and more than 20,000 people through mental health and addiction programs.

Like many service organizations, the center is grappling with funding challenges resulting from cuts to the state budget. The center recently announced a workforce reduction to address the cuts, which amount to roughly $4 million, Windecker said.

“The budget cuts are huge and (Griffith) is well aware of that,” Windecker said. “One of the reasons the board was so excited to see him come forward is, he's faced the challenge in other sates. He brings that experience to western Montana.”