Ben Rodriguez, Jr., Michael Sette Join Health Foundation Staff

New Program Officer and Publications/Web Editor

NEW BRITAIN (July 21, 2008) – The Connecticut Health Foundation (CT Health) recently expanded its staff, adding Ben Rodriguez, Jr. as a program officer, and Michael Sette as publications/web editor.

Ben will focus on grantmaking initiatives that will enable CT Health to realize its goal of reducing the number of at-risk children ages 6-14 entering intensive treatment and/or the juvenile justice system due to mental health issues.   

Ben joined CT Health from Baystate Health Inc. in Springfield, Mass., where he coordinated programs for its Community Benefits Division. He also was a manager in the Tobacco Control and Substance Abuse programs of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in Boston, helping area programs, community stakeholders and local businesses address health care systems change. 

Michael is responsible for CT Health publications, including its quarterly newsletter, policy briefs and reports.  He also oversees content and design for the website (www.cthealth.org).

Michael joined CT Health from Silverstone Adkins & Breit, Inc., a Stratford, Connecticut-based marketing communications agency, where he was senior copywriter and associate creative director.  Prior to that, he was a communications manager for two Connecticut corporations.

“We are delighted to add the skills and experience of Ben and Michael,” says Patricia Baker, CT Health President & CEO.  “Ben’s experience in community-based health organizations and public institutions, and Michael’s communications background add depth to our staff that will enable us to strengthen our focus on the foundation’s three priority areas -- children’s mental health, reducing racial and ethnic health differences, and oral health. 

About the Connecticut Health Foundation:  (CT Health) is the state’s largest independent, nonprofit grantmaking foundation dedicated to improving the health of the people of Connecticut through systemic change, program innovation, and health policy analysis.  Since it was established in July of 1999, CT Health has awarded 445 grants in 44 cities and towns totaling $37.5 million in its three priority areas. For additional information, visit www.cthealth.org. or contact Maryland Grier, Communications Officer, at (860) 224-2200, ext. 32 or maryland@cthealth.org.