In the months since former CEO Joe Roszak announced his retirement Kitsap Metal Health Services (KMHS) screened over 100 qualified applications to fill his role. Ultimately, they ended up finding their perfect match internally. Kitsap Mental health Services is pleased to announce that they will be led by one of their own – Monica Bernhard.
After being with KMHS for four years, serving first as Development Director and later as CFO and then COO, Monica has accepted the board’s offer to move into the CEO role. In speaking about the opportunity Monica stated, “I’m really excited. The CEO prior to me, Joe Roszak, has left quite a legacy to follow. I don’t see us doing something completely new. What I see us doing is really building on a lot of the great initiatives that have already started here.”
The board unanimously agreed that Bernhard was the right person for the role, with Board President, Patty Lent, saying “Monica has a heart for our clients and a deep appreciation for the staff members and partners who provide hope and healing to our community,” in support of their selection.
About Monica
Monica Bernhard is a mission-focused community leader with significant experience in nonprofit leadership. She has a penchant for community mental health initiatives and housing development, making her a great fit for KMHS.
Formerly she served as the Director of Housing and Community Support Services for Kitsap Community Resources. From her previous roles Monica has acquired significant experience with resource development, new program design, process re-engineering, grant writing, and financial management. As an accountant by trade, Monica has worked in accounting across both the public and private sectors.
Monica has a BBA in Accounting from the University of Washington, a Master of Science in Finance from Seattle University and an Executive Certificate in Non-Profit Leadership from Duke University.
Monica was the former Executive Director of the Bremerton Foodline and she currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors of Peninsula Community Health Services.
Connect with Monica >
About KMHS
KMHS provides compassionate mental health assistance to more than 6,500 people each year. They offer inpatient, outpatient, and behavioral health services to people of all ages as well as support for their families.
Their mission since 1978 has been to provide strength and stability when it is needed most in people’s lives as they battle mental health challenges and substance abuse disorders. Their lineup of services includes dozens of programs for Kitsap residents, employing more than 500 staff members.
Some of their most important work is in the area of crisis support and 24-hour emergency mental health assistance. Their Mobile Crisis Response Team can be dispatched to people in their darkest times to get them the help they need and fully support them throughout their recovery.
About Valtas Group
Valtas Group works as Interim Executive Directors, supporting organizations in times of transition and helps organizations navigate uncertainty during leadership change. We lead the search process in partnership with the board and staff leadership, as consultants for recruiting and search to support organizations identify the ideal Executive Director or leader.
Furthermore, Valtas Group partners with board members and senior nonprofit leaders on a variety of strategic consulting assignments. We offer comprehensive resources to guide your transition needs. Contact us to learn about our executive interim and placement services.
