Nuvance Health welcomes new chair, vice chair and members to its Board of Directors

Community leaders bring decades of expertise to guide the Nuvance Health division of Northwell Health’s mission. 

Nuvance Health, now proudly part of Northwell Health, announced the addition of three distinguished professionals — Timothy Dean, Francoise Dunefsky and Tom Dubin — to its Board of Directors. With decades of leadership experience, the new board members will help steer the health system’s strategic vision to deliver exceptional care. 

Steven Lant: Providing steady leadership through growth and change 

“We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional leaders to the board,” said Steven Lant, newly appointed chair of the Nuvance Health Board of Directors. “Tim, Francoise and Tom bring invaluable knowledge and a shared dedication to advancing community healthcare. Their insights and leadership will be key as we continue our mission as part of Northwell Health.” 

Lant has served on the board of directors of Nuvance Health and its predecessor systems since 2003, including as past chair and most recently as vice chair. He also chaired the system’s Finance Committee. Lant is the former president and CEO of CH Energy Group and has held numerous leadership roles in community organizations, including the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation and the United Way of Dutchess County. 

Mark Gudis: Bringing financial insight and nonprofit dedication 

Gudis has been named vice chair of the Nuvance Health Board of Directors. He is a longtime Nuvance Health board member chair of the Finance Committee, and he spent 10 years as chair of the Investment Committee where he remains vice chair. Gudis is a co-founder and managing partner of Backcast Partners Management LLC and brings more than 30 years of investment and C-suite leadership experience to the role. He also served as board chair of Norwalk Hospital and has deep expertise in nonprofit healthcare governance. 

Timothy Dean: Advocating for community-centered leadership 

Dean brings a wealth of experience as the retired president and CEO of Marshall & Sterling Enterprises Inc. A longstanding advocate for community growth, Dean has served as a board member and past chair of the Vassar Brothers Medical Center board and contributed to Nuvance Health’s Strategic Planning Committee.  

“My desire to represent our community and ensure Nuvance Health continues to lead in delivering quality care motivated me to join the board,” Dean said. “I’ll leverage my risk management and finance background to support the board’s oversight responsibilities and uphold best practices.” 

Dean’s dedication to ethics and integrity mirrors Nuvance Health’s values, making him a trusted voice for ensuring high standards across the health system. 

Francoise Dunefsky: Championing patient-centered care and innovation 

A passionate advocate for quality care and continuous improvement, Francoise Dunefsky brings decades of nonprofit leadership as Gateway Hudson Valley’s former president and CEO. As a registered nurse and former Vassar Brothers Medical Center board chair, Dunefsky has driven initiatives focused on improving patient experiences. 

“Patient care is a team sport,” Dunefsky said. “I’m honored to bring my experience in nursing administration, regional planning and social determinants of health to help Nuvance Health strengthen interdisciplinary teams and expand services.” 

Dunefsky’s dedication to education and accountability aligns with Nuvance Health’s focus on delivering equitable care and building healthier communities. 

Tom Dubin: Ensuring excellence in patient outcomes 

Tom Dubin joins the board with extensive experience in law, public health and pharmaceuticals. As a former chair of Norwalk Hospital’s Board of Directors and chief legal officer at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Dubin has demonstrated a passion for hospital quality and sustainability. 

“Great healthcare systems must deliver superb care to all while earning the community’s trust,” Dubin said. “I look forward to advancing Nuvance Health’s mission to maintain excellence, improve patient experiences and ensure financial sustainability.” 

Dubin’s governance and quality improvement expertise complements Nuvance Health’s focus on delivering exceptional and accessible care. 

A new chapter with Northwell Health 

With Nuvance Health now part of Northwell Health, patients and communities across the Hudson Valley and Western Connecticut can expect enhanced access to leading-edge resources and expanded services. The affiliation brings new opportunities to elevate care, support staff and invest in innovation at Danbury Hospital, New Milford Hospital, Norwalk Hospital, Sharon Hospital, Northern Dutchess Hospital, Putnam Hospital and Vassar Brothers Medical Center. 

“Our purpose has always been to keep people well and help them heal,” said Dr. John M. Murphy, president and CEO of Nuvance Health. “As part of Northwell Health, we are positioned better than ever to fulfill that mission. Together, we will expand access to care, deepen community engagement and improve outcomes across our region.” 

Learn more about the Northwell Health and Nuvance Health merger.  

Serving as a board member for a nonprofit health system 

Being a nonprofit health system board member is a role of great responsibility and impact. Board members provide strategic oversight, ensure financial stability and advocate for high-quality care that meets the community’s needs. They also act as ambassadors, helping to build partnerships and trust between the health system and the public. 

Nuvance Health extends heartfelt thanks to all board members for their dedication and service. Their commitment strengthens the health system’s mission to improve health and well-being in the communities it serves. 

Nuvance Health also extended its deep appreciation to Anne Roby for her service and leadership as outgoing board chair. 

Learn more about Nuvance Health.