NESS Appoints Newest Member of Board of Directors

The New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) is pleased to announce the election of Dr. Stephen W. Larcen, PhD, to its Board of Directors. With over four decades of leadership in healthcare and behavioral healthcare, Dr. Larcen is bringing a diverse background and wealth of experience to this organization.  

Dr. Stephen Larcen most recently served as President of the Behavior Health Network for Hartford Healthcare, overseeing a service line exceeding $200 million and representing the largest integrated behavior health network in the region. His prior leadership roles include President of HHC’s Natchaug Hospital, where he developed a comprehensive continuum of care, including inpatient, residential and outpatient services, as well as special schools for children throughout the eastern region of Connecticut.  

In addition to his executive experience, Stephen is the principal in Larcen Consulting, focusing on healthcare management and strategy. He earned his doctorate in clinical and community psychology from the University of Connecticut and holds an undergraduate degree in psychology from Temple University, along with post-graduate training in mental health administration from the Staff College of the National Institutes of Mental Health. He is a prolific author in community psychology, healthcare management, and school-based programs aimed at enhancing social learning.  

Deeply engaged in community service, he is currently serving on the Hartford HealthCare East Region Board and the East Lyme Democratic Town Committee, in addition to his joining the NESS Advisory Board. His previous roles include positions on the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut and the East Lyme Board of Finance, among others.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Stephen Larcen to the NESS Board of Directors. His extensive leadership in healthcare and commitment to community service aligns seamlessly with our mission to empower students through experiential learning,” said Spike Lobdell, NESS CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Dr. Larcen’s background will bring invaluable insights as we continue to expand our impact and develop innovative programs.” 

Dr. Larcen has received numerous awards, including recognition for mental health advocacy from the American Hospital Association and the National Association of Psychiatric Health Systems.  

An avid sailor, Stephen’s love for the water began in Cape May, NJ, where he started boating as a teenager. He has raced trimarans and monohulls for over three decades throughout the CT and RI sounds and has cruised his power catamaran from CT to Florida many times in the past 8 years. He is currently the commodore of the Smith Cove Yacht Club, a small cruising club. Stephen resides in Niantic, Connecticut, with his wife, Susan.