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August 30, 2010

2010 40 Under Forty: Kristin Nolan

Director of Outpatient Services, Spectrum Health Systems

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Oxford

Age: 35

Career highlights: After graduating from Anna Maria College with my master’s degree in 2000, I began working at Spectrum Health Systems Inc. as a substance abuse counselor. In 2005, I was promoted to program director of our largest outpatient clinic in Worcester. In 2007, I became the director of outpatient services and am responsible for the operations at six outpatient clinics in Central Massachusetts. I consider myself very fortunate to have been afforded the opportunities for professional growth and development that Spectrum has provided me over the years.

Community involvement: I have done volunteer work coaching basketball at the community center in Oxford. My children are involved in sports year round, which provides me an opportunity to remain engaged in activities in our community.

Biggest success: In 2007, I assisted in the implementation of a same-day admissions process for people seeking services at our largest outpatient site. With the development of this, it allows those in need of treatment to meet with a clinician and our medical director for admission in one visit. Since its inception, we have reduced wait times significantly. This practice continues to keep Spectrum Health Systems on the cutting edge of substance abuse treatment.

Biggest challenge: The biggest challenge working in the field of substance abuse and mental health is stigma. Although the public has become better informed about these illnesses, we are still faced with the harsh reality that those we serve are seen as “bad people.”

Mentors: Laura Ames was a former COO at Spectrum Health Systems and she took the time to help me develop the necessary skills to be a successful administrator. She was often my harshest critic while at the same time one of my biggest cheerleaders.

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