News from the Noteworthy from Springbrook
Springbrook Prepares for Leadership Transition as Patricia Kennedy Retires
After more than 40 years at Springbrook, I will retire as chief executive officer at the end of 2026. As I reflect on that journey, I am filled with gratitude for the people, opportunities, and experiences that have shaped both my career and this organization.
When I first joined the organization in 1984, it was known as Upstate Baptist Home for Children. We employed approximately 200 people, operated a small campus, and supported a small number of children and families. Today, Springbrook employs more than 1,700 people across New York State and provides educational, residential, clinical, and community-based services that support thousands of individuals and families each year. While much has changed over the past four decades, one thing has remained constant: our commitment to people. The people we support, their families, the employees, community partners, donors, and volunteers have always been the heart of Springbrook and the driving force behind every decision we have made.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of witnessing remarkable growth and transformation. We expanded community-based services, developed new residential opportunities, strengthened our educational programs, and broadened our reach throughout New York State. Initiatives such as the Coming Home Campaign, the acquisition of the Oneonta Campus, the growth of Self-Directed Services, supportive housing developments, and the development of Southern Tier Connect allowed us to respond to evolving needs while remaining true to our mission. In recent years, we have continued to build on that foundation through the creation of Springbrook Partners and Affiliates, including Springbrook Schools, Springbrook Community Connections, Springbrook Wellness, Springbrook Initiatives, and the Springbrook Foundation. This structure has positioned us to meet future challenges while continuing to create opportunities and improve lives.
As I prepare for retirement, one of the questions I am most often asked is whether this feels like the right time. For me, the answer is yes. Not because the work is finished—there will always be opportunities to pursue and challenges to overcome—but because Springbrook is entering its next chapter from a position of strength. We have experienced leadership, engaged boards, dedicated employees and a clear vision for the future.
That future will be led by Seth Haight, who will become Springbrook’s next chief executive officer on January 1, 2027. Since joining Springbrook in 2009, Seth has played an integral role in many of the organization’s most significant milestones, ultimately serving as chief operating officer.
Throughout nearly two decades of service, he has helped guide strategic growth, foster community partnerships and navigate periods of tremendous change, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the people we serve. Working alongside Seth has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. He has been a trusted partner, thoughtful leader and strong advocate for our mission.
While leadership transitions often focus on change, I view this one as a continuation. The values that have guided Springbrook for generations remain firmly in place. Our commitment to creating opportunities, building community, and ensuring individuals and families have access to the supports they need to thrive will continue to define who we are.
I will miss the people who make Springbrook such a special place, but I leave knowing the organization is in capable hands. The future is bright, and I look forward to watching Springbrook continue to grow, innovate, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve as one community full of infinite possibilities.
Patricia Kennedy is chief executive officer of Springbrook.
