New Leadership

Last year, when Chris Burke announced his plans to retire, the all-volunteer board of directors at Unity House swung into action and started an extensive search for a new Chief Executive Officer. On Thursday, the board announced our new leader, David L. Bach.

About our new CEO

David served as Associate Commissioner of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, Division of Child Welfare and Community Services since 2019.

As board chair, Kate Koval said, “We are very fortunate to have a professional of such caliber and experience as David Bach leading Unity House into the next half century. His credentials are impeccable and his heart aligns with Unity House’s mission to enhance the life of others by providing direct services and working toward social justice.”

While serving as Associate Commissioner of NYS OCFS, David oversaw a portfolio that included statewide regional operations, childrens’ Medicaid management, Justice Center coordination, program quality and improvement, program licensing and certification, and the child fatality review team. He also managed the statewide workforce responsible for the oversight and coordination of operations related to all children and family services delivered by local districts and voluntary agencies.

Previously, David was the Director of Quality Assurance and Improvement for the NYS OCFS, Division of Juvenile Justice and Opportunities for Youth.

Continuing a legacy

David is only the third CEO in Unity House’s 50 year history, the first being Mary Jane Smith (1928 – 2017), one of the founders of Unity House along with the late Peter Callaghan and Regis Obijiski. After Mary Jane retired, Chris Burke became CEO, a role he served in for over 30 years. David recognizes the history or our human services work, explaining, “I am truly humbled to become part of the Unity House family. As the CEO, I will be a steward of the tradition of service started by Mary Jane Smith over 50 years ago and carried on through today by the board of directors, many wonderful staff, and Chris Burke.” 

We extend a warm welcome to David and look forward to introducing him to the community.

 

About Unity House

Since 1971, Unity House has grown to meet the increasing needs of those living in Rensselaer and Albany counties and surrounding communities. Providing crisis intervention, advocacy, skills teaching, information, resources, encouragement and support, Unity House continues to help disadvantaged people lead productive and healthy lives. 

For questions, please contact Diane Cameron Pascone, Director of Development, at (518) 274-2607 x4133