Meridian Healthcare, formerly Meridian Behavioral Healthcare, announced Lauren Cohn as its new CEO in a Thursday press release.  

Cohn was appointed to the role in September 2024 following the retirement of Don Savoie, who was CEO since 2020.  

Cohn served as the nonprofit’s chief operating officer after joining Meridian in 2017 as chief performance officer. The release notes that she brings more than 15 years of experience in the field. 

“I’m fortunate to be able to step into this exciting role and help Meridian continue evolving into the leading service provider of comprehensive care for those who struggle with mental health and substance use challenges,” Cohn said in a release. 

The transition comes as the nonprofit revamps its messaging around behavioral healthcare. A new logo also helps emphasize the organization’s focus on heart, life and community, and a new motto reads: “Together we will transform communities from the inside out.” 

“The goal is to help remove stigma; thereby redefining behavioral health as healthcare,” Meridian Healthcare said in the release.  

As CEO, Cohn will guide the nonprofit, with 700 employees, as it supports communities in 13 counties.  

Jeff Feller, chair of the Meridian Healthcare Board of Directors, said it’s a pivotal time in the nonprofit’s history with the rebrand and new central receiving facility in Gainesville, which opened earlier in January. 

“We are in the perfect position to enhance our purpose, vision and the way we see and treat those who face wellness challenges,” Feller said in the release.