The Leadership Team at SCADD is comprised of experienced, dynamic leaders who possess a synergistic and innovative approach to advancing quality, excellence and organizational mission.
Board of Directors
Timothy Gilman, Chairman
Colleen Sullivan, Vice-Chairwoman
Erica Correia, Treasurer
Rev. Stacy Grayson, Secretary
Lonnie Braxton
Herb Half-Crow Boyd
Danielle Cassista
Arthur Cox
Peter DiNapoli
Thomas Riley
Ex Officio Members: Thomas Burke
Demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to community well-being, Ms. Lawton has advanced her agency through a series of pivotal roles that have transformed both its impact and its reach. Throughout her tenure, she has successfully led major program expansions, strengthened service delivery models, and championed leadership development initiatives that enhanced the organization’s operational capacity and long-term sustainability.
Under her guidance, the agency grew from an $8.5 million enterprise into a thriving $25 million organization, a milestone achieved through thoughtful planning, data-driven decision-making, and a deep dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the community. She remains steadfast in assessing local needs and ensuring the agency remains responsive, innovative, and accessible to those it serves.
Her leadership has been instrumental in securing a range of state and federal accreditations and certifications, reinforcing the agency’s reputation for excellence and its commitment to quality treatment services.
Her leadership has also propelled the organization to consistent recognition as a Top Workplace, including two consecutive honors as a Top Women-Led Workplace, as well as being named Non-Profit of the Year in 2023.
Ms. Lawton holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Eastern Connecticut State University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
Her professional achievements have been celebrated with numerous distinctions, most notably the Kathleen Whelan-Ulm Women’s Leadership Award in 2025 and CEO of the Year in 2023. These honors underscore her reputation as a transformative leader, innovative strategist, and passionate advocate for advancing high-quality, community-centered treatment services.
Dr. Peacock uses his story to illustrate the power of building a life that one is called to live. He grew up in a world that told him to “aim for less.” It was sometimes said, but always known, that when you grow up poor and disadvantaged less is the best you’ll ever be. However, he rejected that story.
His education on the human mind began as an individual pursuit. He spent many hours in his late teens and early twenties reading about psychology and the human experience. In his 20s, he decided to leave behind his job painting houses and began his pursuit of his undergraduate degree in psychology. He graduated from Rutgers University with highest honors. While at Rutgers, he was a Paul Robeson Scholar and he spent two years studying cognition. He continued on to Harvard Divinity School where he completed a Master’s Degree in Theological Studies. He completed his medical degree at the University of Vermont College of Medicine. He was privileged to complete his Adult Psychiatry Residency at Duke University where he served as the Chief Resident at the Durham VA Medical Center in North Carolina. While at Duke, he learned from the top faculty and leaders in the field. They taught him a sophisticated and nuanced approach to mental health and psychopharmacology.
After residency, he became the Director of ECT Services at UConn Health Center. While at UConn, he also served as the Medical Director of Outpatient Psychiatric Services. As a faculty member, he was heavily involved in their residency training where he introduced Positive Psychology to the UConn community with lectures and talks.
For several years, he was the Vice Chair of the Department of Psychiatry of Eastern Connecticut Health Network and the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatric Services at Rockville General Hospital in Vernon/Rockville, CT. Most recently, he served as The Director of Psychiatry at Wakulla Correctional Institution–a level 5 maximum security prison.
He has received teaching awards at Duke and UConn and recently taught at the University of New England College of Medicine. Dr. Peacock has spent his life working to understand the human experience and how to help others to achieve what he refers to as “their best practice of self.” His interests range from the study of consciousness, religious experience to the biological predictors of human behavior from an evolutionary perspective.
Mr. Aleia was hired as SCADD’s Chief Financial Officer in January of 2020. Alan has been in financial, and operational leadership roles in the Healthcare Industry for over 30 years. For the last 8 years, he was Senior Vice President at Parallon Business Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hospital Corporation of America. There, his team was responsible for the implementation and delivery of Revenue Cycle Solutions for a diverse client base of over 50 national healthcare systems and physician practices. He held leadership roles in the insurance industry and developed advances in claims management technology which resulted in being awarded 5 US Patents. Alan began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers on the audit staff. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.
Ms. Sullivan joined the SCADD team in July 2020 and brings over 35 years of experience in the social services field. She began her career as a residential adolescent counselor at The Children’s Center in Hamden, CT and subsequently moved on to the Apt Foundation where she dedicated 19 years to adult and adolescent treatment services and ultimately served as the facility’s Executive Director. Maria’s career path then led her to serve in several behavioral health leadership positions at Rushford, St. Vincent’s Health Services in Bridgeport, CT and Eastern Connecticut Health Network through Manchester and Rockville Hospitals. Maria’s most recent experience includes oversight and development of Outpatient services for CT Renaissance in Southwestern CT. Maria has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and secured her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Southern CT State University. She holds a license in clinical social work and still practices direct care in a private practice setting in Branford, CT. Maria is thrilled to have found a place to continue the career work she loves as well as acres of quiet serenity to relocate to and share with her loved ones.
Ms. DeMars was hired in May 2020 as the agency’s first Chief Compliance Officer. Kathy brings to SCADD a specialized skill set developed during her 30+ years at Hartford Healthcare’s Behavioral Health Network of programs. Kathy’s experience in quality and privacy management along with her understanding of state regulatory agencies has earned her a highly respected reputation. Kathy’s high standard for compliance and quality has contributed to her successful working relationships with the Department of Public Health, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the Department of Social Services and the Court Support Services Division of the Connecticut Judicial Department. Kathy has successfully ushered dozens of programs through the accreditation and re-accreditation process of The Joint Commission and CARF. Kathy’s systematic approach has allowed her to develop, coordinate and lead organization wide compliance through monitoring and auditing initiatives that cover legal, contractual, regulatory, accreditation and HIPAA/privacy practices.
Ms. Golia brings over 20 years of progressive experience in the human resources field and is a seasoned professional in strategic HR management within nonprofit organizations. She specializes in developing and implementing HR strategies that support organizational goals, whether in large, complex environments or smaller, start-up settings. Known for her process-focused and solution-driven approach, Ms. Golia excels at leading and motivating teams, communicating effectively, and upholding the highest ethical standards, all while demonstrating exceptional organizational and analytical skills.
Prior to joining SCADD, Ms. Golia served as Chief Human Resources Officer at the Root Center for Advanced Recovery in Manchester, CT, where she oversaw HR operations for a holistic behavioral health nonprofit, providing comprehensive support to both leadership and staff.
Ms. Chadukiewicz brings her enthusiasm for recovery and innovation to SCADD, Inc., as Chief Strategy Officer. In this role, she works alongside a well-established team and oversees marketing, development, communications, events, social media, and the organization’s upcoming strategic vision projects. She combines her project management and facilitation expertise with her lived experience as a woman in long-term recovery.
Jennifer has had the distinct privilege of serving as co-chair of the Governor’s Alcohol and Drug Policy Sub-Committee for Recovery and Health Management, where she helped bring the Recovery Friendly Community initiative to cities and agencies across Connecticut. She also proudly led the way as Program Manager for the first successful Recovery Coaching program in Emergency Departments in the country. In collaboration with the Yale Program for Recovery & Community Health, she co-authored the first guidelines on peer supervision.
Jennifer is a Recovery Coach Professional, a facilitator of CCAR curriculum, and a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. She earned her Master of Public Policy degree from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2024. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys sailing with her husband on Long Island Sound.
Ms. Ramos brings over 20 years of experience in human services as a licensed Clinical Social Worker, dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals through compassionate, values-driven care. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University and has held a variety of leadership roles throughout her career, including Vice President of Eldercare Services at United Community and Family Services and Opioid Settlement Committee Manager for the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
In 2023, Ms. Ramos joined SCADD, where she found a role that aligns closely with her personal and professional values. She is passionate about working with adults and is committed to fostering meaningful change through clinical expertise and strong community collaboration.
Outside of work, Ms. Ramos enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and reading, activities that provide balance and inspiration to her professional life.
Ms. Ruelle is an accomplished behavioral health leader with extensive experience in clinical practice, operational management, and regulatory compliance. She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rhode Island College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Johnson & Wales University, and is licensed in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.
Her career spans leadership roles at the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH), as well as clinical positions in hospital emergency departments, correctional facilities, and community-based programs.
Recognized for her ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, implement policy improvements, and strengthen provider services for vulnerable populations, Lynne brings a strong commitment to collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability. She is also a Certified Correctional Health
Professional (CCHP) and Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), reflecting her dedication to delivering effective, compassionate care in diverse and challenging environments.
Ms. Mullin is an experienced Controller with a 25-year history in non-profit and governmental accounting. Beth joined SCADD in 2025 and is excited to work cooperatively with SCADD’s leadership, Board of Directors and staff to pursue programmatic growth while balancing risks and improving financial transparency. Beth’s expertise lies in strong financial reporting, grants management, financial analysis, budgeting, audit, cash management and strategy. Beth began her career in audit at KPMG and strives to be a balanced leader and mentor. Beth secured her MS/MBA in Accounting and Business Administration, as well as a paralegal certificate from Northeastern University.
Outside of work, Beth serves her community in a variety of capacities. As a long-time member of Lions Club International, she serves as a volunteer locally and throughout Southeastern Connecticut. She also serves as a Leos Club advisor, helping to foster youth volunteerism. Fun fact: Beth has walked over 300 miles for causes including Breast Cancer awareness/prevention, domestic violence protection, suicide awareness, heart disease, food insecurity and many more. She is always open to new ways to support our most vulnerable populations locally and beyond.
Dr. Joseph Ceha, one of the founders of SCADD, dedicated his life to serving individuals and communities through a distinguished career in mental health and addiction services. His leadership included roles as Chief of Professional Services at Norwich Hospital, executive board member of the Southeastern Connecticut Regional Commission on Alcoholism, Superintendent of Undercliff Mental Health Center in Meriden, and later service with the Connecticut Department of Mental Health.
Dr. Ceha believed that addiction is a community-wide challenge—one that cannot be addressed in isolation. He recognized that substance use is shaped by many interconnected factors and that lasting solutions require collaboration, compassion, and collective responsibility.
His forward-thinking vision helped lay the foundation of SCADD’s mission, and his legacy continues to guide our work today.
Mike Svab has been a longtime supporter of SCADD, and his dedication has played a vital role in the continued success of the SCADD Shaun Cashman Memorial Golf Tournament. As the Head Professional at Norwich Golf Course, Mike consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the event runs smoothly year after year.
His commitment, professionalism, and genuine support for SCADD’s mission have strengthened our fundraising efforts and helped make the tournament one of our most meaningful annual traditions. Mike’s partnership reflects not only his generosity, but also his belief in recovery, community, and the importance of giving back.
We are grateful for his continued support, which stands as a valued pillar of SCADD’s work.
Founded by Marie Sienkiewicz in honor of her son, Steven’s Stockings is guided by the belief that everyone—regardless of their past—deserves love, acceptance, and encouragement in their fight for a better life. Their mission is rooted in dignity, compassion, and meaningful human connection.
Each December, Steven’s Stockings visits recovery programs to personally deliver stockings and stuffed backpacks filled with essential self-care items. Beyond the gifts, volunteers share words of encouragement, respect, and support, reminding individuals that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
Year after year, their mission continues to grow, reaching more individuals and communities. We are deeply grateful for Steven’s Stockings’ partnership and unwavering commitment to bringing hope, comfort, and compassion to those who need it most.
remembered as a friend, mentor, and steadfast leader whose impact on SCADD continues to be deeply felt. As a longtime Director of Lebanon Pines and a dedicated member of the SCADD Board of Directors, Bill’s contributions were immeasurable. His compassionate leadership, steady guidance, and unwavering commitment helped strengthen the foundation of our programs and the organization as a whole.
Bill approached every challenge with integrity and humility, offering support, encouragement, and wisdom to both staff and clients. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the programs he helped shape, and the hope he fostered along the way. His life was beautifully lived, and his enduring influence remains a true pillar of SCADD.
Dorothy Eames was a devoted community leader whose legacy of service spanned more than 70 years in Groton and Mystic, with a profound and enduring commitment to SCADD. She served on SCADD’s Board of Directors for more than 40 years, including 10 years as Chairwoman, helping guide the organization through decades of growth, change, and expanded impact.
A steadfast advocate for individuals and families affected by substance use and mental health challenges, Dorothy believed deeply in early intervention and investing in youth as a foundation for stronger, healthier communities. Beyond SCADD, she dedicated her time and leadership to numerous public service organizations, including the Kiwanis Club, Fitch High School Keyettes, the Community Mental Health Center of Southeastern Connecticut, and the City of Groton, where she served as a Councilwoman.
Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication leave a lasting legacy that continues to inspire SCADD’s mission and the communities we serve.
Colleen Sullivan has been a dedicated member of SCADD’s Board of Directors since 2019 and currently serves as Vice Chairperson. A highly respected leader in the healthcare field, she brings an essential focus on quality, excellence, and integrity, helping ensure that SCADD’s work is guided by the highest standards of care and compassion.
Her deep commitment to community health and recovery is evident in her thoughtful leadership, strategic insight, and enthusiastic support of SCADD’s events and initiatives. Through periods of growth and change, Colleen’s wisdom, steady presence, and collaborative spirit have helped guide the agency forward.
We are deeply grateful for her service, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to our mission and the communities we serve. Her leadership makes her a valued and influential pillar of our organization.
SCADD has been proud to partner with United Way of Southeastern Connecticut for more than 30 years. Their unwavering support, from funding our programs to volunteering their time and energy, has strengthened our mission and made a real difference in the lives of those we serve.
Through initiatives like Days of Caring and resources from the Gemma Moran Food Center, United Way helps us provide essential services and nutritious food while fostering a sense of hope and community. Their dedication and generosity truly make them a pillar in Southeastern Connecticut.
Today we are proud to highlight Senator Cathy Osten as a true pillar of support for our mission and for the recovery community across Southeastern Connecticut.
A dedicated advocate for community wellness, Senator Osten has spent her career championing public service, standing up for nonprofit providers, and ensuring that individuals in recovery have the resources and support they deserve. Her leadership has been instrumental in securing funding, strengthening service systems, and uplifting the voices of those working toward a brighter future.
Her steadfast commitment has made a lasting difference not just for SCADD, but for families and communities throughout our region.
We are deeply grateful for her partnership, her advocacy, and her unwavering belief in the power of hope and recovery.
For more than 20 years, Pastor Mark Love has been a steadfast pillar of compassion, connection, and hope within the SCADD community. Week after week, he has generously volunteered his time to lead Bible study sessions, offering encouragement, guidance, and spiritual support to clients on their recovery journey.
Pastor Love has also opened the doors of his congregation to SCADD residents, personally providing transportation so they can participate in Sunday morning worship. Through these acts of kindness, he has helped foster a sense of belonging, community, and spiritual growth for countless individuals.
His unwavering dedication is a true testament to the power of faith, service, and human connection in the healing and recovery process. Today, we proudly recognize Pastor Mark Love as a pillar of SCADD and extend our deepest gratitude for the many lives he has touched.
For more than a decade, Arthur Cox has been a dedicated and influential member of SCADD’s Board of Directors. His steadfast advocacy, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of recovery have been instrumental in guiding SCADD through years of growth and transformation.
Drawing on his professional expertise in capital improvements, Mr. Cox has played a key role in strengthening SCADD’s facilities and long-term infrastructure planning work that directly supports our mission and the individuals we serve every day.
Through his over 10 years of service, Arthur has exemplified true stewardship, compassion, and community commitment. His impact continues to shape SCADD’s future and reinforces the foundation of hope we strive to build across Southeastern Connecticut.
Thank you, Arthur, for being a pillar of purpose.
For several decades, Dr. Vijay Sikand served SCADD with extraordinary dedication, compassion, and vision. Rising through numerous roles to ultimately become our Medical Director, he shaped the health and recovery journeys of countless individuals across southeastern Connecticut.
Dr. Sikand was widely respected for his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to patient care. His leadership and gentle presence helped define SCADD’s mission, strengthening the foundation upon which our services stand today. He often shared that his work with SCADD was “a priceless element” of his medical career, a reflection of the deep connection he had with our clients, staff, and community.
One of his most meaningful recognitions came in 2011, when he received the Morgan McGuire Altruism Award, honoring his integrity, service, and humanity in the field of addiction medicine.
Today, we proudly celebrate Dr. Sikand as a true pillar of SCADD, a leader whose impact continues to inspire and guide us.
As one of SCADD’s co-founders, Attorney Morgan McGuire helped establish the foundation for what would become one of Southeastern Connecticut’s most trusted treatment organizations. A visionary leader and passionate advocate for recovery, he recognized early on the importance of addressing the growing needs of individuals and families affected by substance use.
In addition to his leadership in founding SCADD in 1966, Attorney McGuire served on the Governor’s Alcohol Advisory Council, where he championed compassionate, community-based approaches to treatment and recovery.
Because of his dedication and vision, SCADD continues to carry forward his legacy of compassion, service, and community impact—building hope and strengthening lives for nearly six decades.
For 26 years, Mickey brought heart, humor, and healing to SCADD. As a dedicated nurse, she cared for every individual in recovery with deep empathy, seeing the person behind the struggle and inspiring those around her to do the same.
Her kindness and mentorship continue to guide our work today. Mickey’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the compassion she instilled in our community.
SCADD Board Member and retired Senior Assistant State’s Attorney, Lonnie Braxton, has dedicated his life to justice, equality, and second chances.
Raised in Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement, his story is one of resilience, perseverance, and service – values that continue to shape his leadership and impact in New London.
Mr. Braxton’s steadfast belief in redemption and accountability reflects the very heart of SCADD’s mission. We’re proud to honor him as a true pillar of purpose in our community.
Mr. Samoska brings more than three decades of experience at the intersection of business and technology, building a distinguished career leading organizations through innovation and transformation. He has held senior leadership roles including CTO, CIO, and CISO, consistently aligning technology strategies with business objectives to drive growth, strengthen security, and deliver outstanding customer experiences.
His leadership philosophy is grounded in integrity, resilience, and precision—values shaped during his service in the United States Marine Corps. These principles guide his approach to building high-performing teams and executing strategies that generate measurable impact. Known for simplifying complex technology challenges, Mr. Samoska helps organizations accelerate digital transformation while improving operational efficiency and profitability.
Passionate about continuous learning and collaboration, he brings forward-thinking insights that empower businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Outside of work, Mr. Samoska enjoys spending time with family and friends and maintaining an active lifestyle through tennis, biking, skiing, golf, and travel, reflecting his belief in balance and meaningful connections.
As SCADD’s first Executive Director, William M. Walsh helped shape the agency’s early growth and lasting direction. A visionary leader, he championed the use of data and outcomes to inform national research and policy, ensuring that SCADD’s voice reached far beyond our local community.
His forward-thinking approach strengthened SCADD’s ability to provide quality care and positioned the agency as a leader in shaping the future of recovery services.
Because of his leadership and innovation, SCADD continues to build on the strong foundation he helped establish nearly six decades ago.
Jack Malone, former Executive Director of SCADD, was a true catalyst for change. His leadership transformed SCADD from a small regional organization in southeastern Connecticut into one recognized across the state and beyond.
At the helm, Jack championed multiple pathways to recovery, ensuring that every individual could find the support and care they needed to heal and thrive. His vision and dedication continue to shape the way our services are delivered today — and his impact remains deeply woven into SCADD’s mission.
We celebrate Jack’s lasting influence and the strong foundation he helped build — one that continues to inspire our mission of hope and recovery for all.
For more than 25 years, Tim has been a steadfast leader and advocate for SCADD’s mission. His journey began when he first rang the doorbell as a client seeking help, a moment that opened the door to recovery and a second chance at life.
From dependence to devotion, Tim’s path has grown into decades of service and leadership. His story is a powerful reminder that SCADD is built on second chances, purpose, and the belief that recovery can lead to lasting impact.
Thank you, Tim, for your unwavering leadership and the hope you inspire in others.
Demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to community well-being, Ms. Lawton has advanced her agency through a series of pivotal roles that have transformed both its impact and its reach. Throughout her tenure, she has successfully led major program expansions, strengthened service delivery models, and championed leadership development initiatives that enhanced the organization’s operational capacity and long-term sustainability.
Under her guidance, the agency grew from an $8.5 million enterprise into a thriving $25 million organization, a milestone achieved through thoughtful planning, data-driven decision-making, and a deep dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the community. She remains steadfast in assessing local needs and ensuring the agency remains responsive, innovative, and accessible to those it serves.
Her leadership has been instrumental in securing a range of state and federal accreditations and certifications, reinforcing the agency’s reputation for excellence and its commitment to quality treatment services.
Her leadership has also propelled the organization to consistent recognition as a Top Workplace, including two consecutive honors as a Top Women-Led Workplace, as well as being named Non-Profit of the Year in 2023.
Ms. Lawton holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Eastern Connecticut State University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
Her professional achievements have been celebrated with numerous distinctions, most notably the Kathleen Whelan-Ulm Women’s Leadership Award in 2025 and CEO of the Year in 2023. These honors underscore her reputation as a transformative leader, innovative strategist, and passionate advocate for advancing high-quality, community-centered treatment services.
