Leaders join Nuvance Health board amid new chapter with Northwell Health

Three community-focused professionals have been appointed to the Board of Directors at Nuvance Health, now part of Northwell Health. The addition of Timothy Dean, Francoise Dunefsky and Tom Dubin brings seasoned insight and a strong commitment to supporting the region’s evolving healthcare needs.

The new board members bring a combined legacy of leadership in business, public health, nursing and nonprofit governance. As Nuvance Health continues its integration with Northwell Health — the largest health system in New York — their experience will help shape future initiatives to expand access, improve quality and support staff across the Hudson Valley and Western Connecticut.

Steven Lant appointed chair of the Nuvance Health Board of Directors

“We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional leaders to the board,” Steven Lant said. “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, who has served in board leadership roles for more than two decades, steps into the chair position at a pivotal moment. He succeeds Anne Roby, who was recognized for her contributions as outgoing chair.

Mark Gudis appointed vice chair of the Nuvance Health Board of Directors

Serving alongside Lant is Mark Gudis, named vice chair of the Nuvance Health Board of Directors after years of dedicated board service. He 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. Gudis has deep financial expertise in nonprofit healthcare governance as the chair of the Nuvance Health Finance Committee and vice chair of the Investment Committee, where he spent 10 years as chair. He also served as chair of the Norwalk Hospital Board of Directors.

Meet the new board members of the Nuvance Health Board of Directors

Timothy Dean is a respected business leader and former CEO of Marshall & Sterling Enterprises Inc. He is no stranger to the Nuvance Health system, having served as chair of the Vassar Brothers Medical Center board and a member of the 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.”

Francoise Dunefsky, a registered nurse and former president and CEO of Gateway Hudson Valley, brings a unique lens to the board — grounded in both hands-on patient care and executive leadership. She is also a former chair of the Vassar Brothers Medical Center board.

“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.”

Tom Dubin, who previously chaired the Norwalk Hospital board, is a legal and public health expert. He was the chief legal officer at Alexion Pharmaceuticals. He is passionate about quality and ensuring each hospital delivers exceptional and accessible care.

“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.”

Board leadership to support a new era at Nuvance Health

This transition in board leadership comes as Nuvance Health begins its next chapter with Northwell Health. The affiliation strengthens the health system’s ability to offer more advanced services, improve outcomes, and broaden access to innovative care at Danbury, New Milford, Norwalk, Sharon, Northern Dutchess and Putnam Hospitals 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.”

A vital role in community health

Board members at nonprofit health systems like Nuvance Health take on vital responsibilities — from shaping long-term strategy to ensuring financial sustainability. They also serve as trusted advocates for the communities they represent, helping to build public confidence and guide meaningful progress.

The system extended its appreciation to all board members for their commitment and leadership, recognizing their role in driving forward Nuvance Health’s mission to improve health and well-being across the region.

Learn more about Nuvance Health.