July 6, 2013
The Saratogian
By EMILY DONOHUE
SARATOGA SPRINGS — In the wake of Prevention Council Executive Director Heather Kisselback’s resignation, which was accepted by the organization’s board June 15 after details of her driving while intoxicated arrest came to light, the nonprofit is looking for applicants to fill the position.
Kisselback resigned in mid-June, months after her arrest and only after it became public in news reports. She had informed the board of her arrest in the early spring, immediately after it happened, and offered her resignation then, but the board allowed her to stay on provided she receive counseling.
In an emailed statement sent to Prevention Council supporters last week, the board acknowledged that it erred in handling the Kisselback situation.
“The Board of Directors of the Prevention Council would like to formally apologize for mishandling key aspects of the recent resignation of our agency’s executive director,” the statement read.
The statement went on to say the board pledges “to use these unfortunate circumstances as an opportunity for growth and learning.”
The 31-year-old Prevention Council is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to prevent the abuse of drugs and alcohol. The group administers a variety of programs, many that focus on youth and emphasize good decision-making. It relies heavily on public donations.
Board Treasurer Michael Harman is heading up the search for a new executive director.
“The services that this organization and its staff provide are extremely valuable,” Harman said in a statement. “We hope to hear from a variety of skilled candidates whose vision and credentials are a good match for the agency and the position of executive director.”
Interested candidates should send their resumé and a letter of intent to Michael Harman at michaelmharman@yahoo.com.
Harman said he and the board also are seeking input from the public on the type of candidate that should fill the position.
“We’re very much open to listening,” he said, adding that stakeholders should feel free to email him with “advice or wisdom” about the search process.
Financial Manager David Garmley has been serving as the Prevention Council’s temporary head administrator since Kisselback resigned.
Harman said an interim director also will be appointed so the search committee can take the necessary time to find a new executive director.