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Welcome to our new board president and new member

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The Citizen Advocates Board of Directors elected a new President, and welcomed a new board member at a recent meeting.

The Citizen Advocates Board of Directors is a group of civic-minded community volunteers representing a wide range of professional backgrounds, and is directly responsible for the ongoing governance and stewardship of the organization.

“We are so grateful for the generous contribution of time and talent that each board member brings to the table,” said James Button, CEO of Citizen Advocates. “These individuals share our commitment to our 750-member workforce, and ensuring those we support receive the best-in-class clinical care, housing and community services.”

Nick Eells, who has been on the board since 2012 and served as Treasurer since 2015, was recently elected Board President. In addition to Citizen Advocates, Mr. Eells serves on the boards of UVM Health Network-Alice Hyde Medical Center and Malone Golf Club.  A resident of the Village of Malone, Mr. Eells is the Managing Partner of The Hoffman Eells Group CPAs, a public accounting firm with offices in Malone, Lake Placid and Plattsburgh.  He is also a Registered Investment Advisor with Avantax Advisory Services, providing asset management services to individuals.

Nick Eells, President

“Growing up in the North Country has provided me with a first-hand perspective of how vital the services are that Citizen Advocates provides in our communities,” said Board President Eells.  “I am especially proud of the commitment our team members demonstrate on a daily basis as they strive to provide the best healthcare possible.  The commitment of these talented and caring people is what makes our mission of Making Lives Better possible.”

The Board also welcomed its newest member, Lori Tourville.  Ms. Tourville is the Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Instructional Services at Franklin-Essex-Hamilton BOCES. She has been a school administrator in the Malone and Chateaugay districts for the last 15 years, and began her career in education as an elementary school librarian.

Lori Tourville

“I believe my role in public education will help bridge or serve as a connector around some of the services for the youth and families we all serve,” said Ms. Tourville. “I am deeply honored to have been invited to join the board, and look forward to serving the community.”

In addition to Mr. Eells and Ms. Tourville, the Board of Directors includes: Jennifer Bilow, Vice President; Deanna Smith, Secretary; Brock Arnold, Paul Goodrow and Felix Tam.