West Central Behavioral Health development officer Ron Michaud, left, was honored with the nonprofit organization's annual Lilla McLane Bradley Award. At right is former West Central board member Katherine Milligan. (Photograph courtesy of West Central Behavioral Health)
West Central Behavioral Health development officer Ron Michaud, left, was honored with the nonprofit organization's annual Lilla McLane Bradley Award. At right is former West Central board member Katherine Milligan. (Photograph courtesy of West Central Behavioral Health) Credit: —Courtesy photograph

West Central Behavioral Health Honors Longtime Advocate

Lebanon — West Central Behavioral Health honored longtime employee Ron Michaud last week with the Lilla McLane Bradley Award.

Michaud is currently a part-time consultant for the development department at the nonprofit organization, which provides community mental health care to residents of Sullivan County and the greater Upper Valley. West Central established the award in 2007 to honor community members who embody the volunteerism and service that McLane Bradley is remembered for. The award is given annually to an individual who exemplifies McLane Bradley’s dedication in helping people overcome substance abuse and mental illness.

“Ron Michaud has made a big difference in so many lives during his career,” Suellen Griffin, president and CEO of West Central, said in an email. “He has inspired all of us to work hard to make a difference. This is what Lilla McLane Bradley did, and she would have been proud to present this award to Ron tonight.”

Michaud is known as a fierce advocate and mentor for people in need. Following his early career as a case manager in New York City, and a social worker and therapist in Boston, he moved with his wife, Hilary, to Lebanon in 1989. He has served as executive director for HeadRest, clinical director for The Family Place, and interim executive director for Upper Valley Youth Services.

For the past 18 years, Michaud has worked at West Central, starting as an emergency services clinician and then as development and community relations officer.

The award was presented at a reception last Monday at the Hilton Garden Inn Hanover Lebanon. Past recipients have included U.S. Rep. Ann McLane Kuster, D-N.H., former State Sen. Bob Odell, R-New London, and former N.H. House Rep. Laurie Harding, D-Lebanon.