Advocates president receives Irvin Rutman Award

Diane Gould, president and CEO of Advocates, a Framingham-based nonprofit provider of services to individuals facing life challenges, received the Irvin Rutman Award from the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association. Gould was honored during the PRA's 2016 Recovery Workforce Summit held on May 22-25 at the Sheraton Boston Hotel. The Irvin Rutman Award, one of the PRA Awards of Distinction, is presented annually to an executive director of a psychiatric program who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in the field of psychiatric rehabilitation, as well as in promoting the mission of PRA, which is to grow and train the recovery workforce. Gould has been with Advocates for 30 years in varied roles. Before she became president and CEO in 2013, she served as chief operations officer for several years. Gould’s experience in community-based services includes a broad range of clinical, residential and support services that promote empowerment, inclusion, and social and health equity. “The PRA Irvin Rutman Award is a great honor,” said Gould. “More than anything, it is recognition of our employees’ dedication, commitment and leadership in the field, and of the wonderful work of Advocates' Mental Health Division. Our team at Advocates inspires me every day.”