New College of Florida Alumnae/i Association

Mary Ruiz is President/CEO of Manatee Glens, a not-for-profit hospital that has been helping families in crisis with mental health and addictions services in Bradenton, Florida, for over 50 years. Manatee Glens helps families in crisis with mental health and addictions services and supports the community through prevention and recovery.

During her ten years as President/CEO, Ms. Ruiz has led Manatee Glens to a statewide reputation, gaining recognition for innovation with groundbreaking programs such as the Access Center, a 24-hour psychiatric emergency room for both mental health and addictions crises, Outpatient Detox-the first outpatient detox center in the state and winner of a Florida Best Practice Award-and the Safe Children Coalition, a collaboration that has reduced child abuse and neglect caseloads by 50 percent.

Ms. Ruiz has worked at Manatee Glens since 1987 and has senior management experience in hospital administration, capitated managed care delivery systems, corporate strategic planning, marketing, business development, local government, and not-for-profit agency administration. Prior to her employment at Manatee Glens, she worked for county government in both Manatee and Sarasota Counties. She has a Master's in Business Administration from the University of South Florida and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Urban Studies from New College.

Manatee Glens provides services to one of every 30 families in Manatee County. Inpatient and outpatient programs are offered for alcohol and drug abuse treatment and prevention, mental health counseling, rape crisis services, child abuse and employee assistance programs. Established in 1955, the organization, serves 10,000 children, adolescents, adults, families, and senior adults each year. Manatee Glens Hospital and Crisis Center is the only not‑for-profit hospital in Manatee County. Its Access Center (941‑782‑4617) is always open to provide crisis assistance for behavioral health emergencies.

{Mary Ruiz}