Leadership

Narrative Bio:
Cari A. Guthrie is a seasoned leader in the field of mental health and nonprofit management, currently serving as the President and CEO of Cornerstone Montgomery. With a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Maryland, Cari has dedicated over 30 years of her career to the organization, beginning as a residential counselor and advancing to her current position as CEO. In her role, Cari oversees the overall operations and administration of Cornerstone Montgomery, focusing on partnerships, growth, education, and advocacy to further the organization’s mission of providing essential mental health services.

Cari’s journey with Cornerstone Montgomery is a testament to her passion and dedication. After three years as a residential counselor, she pursued her graduate degree and was happily working in Baltimore when an opportunity at Cornerstone Montgomery opened up. She returned to the organization as a supervisor and has since held various leadership positions, eventually becoming CEO, a role she has held for over 11 years. Throughout her tenure, Cari has played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission, implementing evidence-based practices like Integrated Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders, Motivational Interviewing, Stages of Change, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She has also been instrumental in developing a robust staff training and orientation program, navigating two significant mergers, and securing over $6 million in community bond funding to renovate commercial and residential properties.

One of Cari’s most significant achievements was leading the organization through its transition to a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), securing more than $10 million in SAMHSA grants. Under her leadership, Cornerstone Montgomery has grown in both size and scope, including the purchase and renovation of its main administrative office in Rockville.

Leading through the challenges of COVID-19 has been a defining experience for Cari. It reinforced her belief in transparent communication and the importance of curiosity and listening. The pandemic challenged her to adapt, hold people accountable, and set clear expectations, all while navigating an unprecedented crisis.

Cari’s leadership style is deeply influenced by her personal values of transparency, flexibility, and empowerment. She believes in empowering her team to take ownership of their roles, solve problems, and grow as leaders themselves. Her approach is rooted in her own experience of being empowered by her supervisor early in her career, and she strives to pass that same encouragement on to others.

Outside of her professional life, Cari enjoys reading, cooking, watching movies and sports, and walking her dachshund, Percy. She is a passionate traveler and loves listening to live jazz music. These hobbies allow her to recharge and bring fresh creativity and perspective to her leadership role.

Cari is driven by the belief that fostering strong partnerships and advocating for mental health services can have a transformative impact on both individuals and the community. Her commitment to transparency and open decision-making continues to push the boundaries of the field, ensuring that Cornerstone Montgomery remains a leader in mental health care.

Narrative Bio:
Elizabeth (Liz) Gatti is a seasoned human resources professional with over two decades of experience in the nonprofit and HR sectors. Currently serving as the Director of Human Resources at Cornerstone Montgomery, Liz is responsible for overseeing the full spectrum of HR management, including recruitment, retention, employee relations, benefits and compensation, and staff development. Her focus on workforce management is rooted in her commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture that aligns with the organization’s strategic goals.

Liz’s educational background in social work, with a Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a Master Certificate in Human Resource Management from Villanova University, has uniquely shaped her approach to leadership. Her early experiences in social work instilled a deep sense of empathy, which she integrates into her HR role, ensuring that organizational objectives are met while supporting the diverse needs of the staff. This blend of empathy and strategic thinking drives Liz to create programs and policies that enhance both workforce engagement and overall organizational success.

One of Liz’s key initiatives at Cornerstone Montgomery was the development of a holistic wellness program, addressing both mental and physical health. This program, which includes mental health resources, fitness challenges, and workshops on stress management and overall well-being, has had a lasting impact on employee engagement and workplace culture. Recognizing the importance of employee development, Liz is also committed to promoting a culture of growth and innovation within the organization, driven by her SHRM-CP certification, which reinforced her belief in the value of investing in employees.

Her membership in professional affiliations, including the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Montgomery County (MD) SHRM chapter, allows Liz to stay current with HR best practices, further enhancing her ability to contribute to Cornerstone Montgomery’s mission.

Outside of work, Liz enjoys channeling her creativity through painting and gardening, though she admits that weeding is not her favorite part. She also cherishes family time with her daughters and enjoys playing Mario Kart 8 with her husband, often turning their races into fun competitions to decide who takes on chores. These hobbies not only recharge her but also keep her connected to the collaborative and playful spirit that she brings to her professional life.

Liz’s leadership is driven by her belief in the power of collaboration and teamwork. She fosters an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, knowing that this approach can lead to more innovative solutions and enhanced problem-solving. Her goal is to create an HR structure that not only supports organizational success but also ensures that each employee feels valued, heard, and supported in their professional journey.

Narrative Bio:
Dr. Joy Chang is a dedicated and innovative leader in the field of psychiatry, currently serving as the Chief Medical Officer at Cornerstone Montgomery. With a background that includes specialized training in both General Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry, Dr. Chang oversees clinical operations and integrated health services, while driving the development of the organization’s Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) program. Her role focuses on ensuring the highest standards of care, while fostering innovation in healthcare delivery to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Dr. Chang’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a minor in Psychology from The Ohio State University. She went on to earn her Doctor of Medicine degree from Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine. After completing her residency in General Adult Psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine/Sheppard Pratt, she pursued a Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at the same institution. Her comprehensive training has made her a leader in the field, and she is board-certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Before joining Cornerstone Montgomery, Dr. Chang was hospital-based, serving as the Medical Director of a substance abuse consultation service. Her experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams shaped her approach to leadership, making her deeply curious about how different job functions and processes impact care delivery. This perspective has driven her to explore innovative ways to redesign healthcare systems. At Cornerstone Montgomery, she has spearheaded key initiatives such as refreshing the OMHC clinic operations and launching the development of the CCBHC program, significantly advancing the organization’s mission to provide high-quality, accessible behavioral health services.

Dr. Chang’s decision to join Cornerstone Montgomery was both a professional and personal one. After years of commuting to Baltimore, she sought an opportunity to make a meaningful impact closer to home, where she could influence the community in which she lives and raises her family. Working at Cornerstone Montgomery has allowed her to channel her passion for public behavioral health services, while also supporting her neighbors and contributing to the local community.

Throughout her career, Dr. Chang has championed clinical practice changes that required strategic collaboration across multiple departments. These initiatives have had a lasting impact on patient care at the University of Maryland Medical Center and have given her the confidence to push boundaries and challenge complacency. Her leadership style is driven by a constant pursuit of improvement, always asking, “What’s next?” and seeking ways to further enhance care delivery.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr. Chang’s most cherished passion is raising her children, a hobby that keeps her engaged and continuously creative. Her commitment to both her family and her work reflects her dynamic approach to life, where she is never satisfied with the status quo and always looks for opportunities to grow and improve.

As Chair of the Montgomery County Opioid Fatality Review Team, Dr. Chang continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in her field, driven by a commitment to excellence and a desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of the people she serves.

Narrative Bio:
Lisa H. Katz is a highly respected leader in the field of mental health services, currently serving as the Chief Program Officer (CPO) at Cornerstone Montgomery. With over thirty five years of experience in the nonprofit sector, coupled with a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor License (LCPC), Lisa has built a reputation for her strategic vision and dedication to client-centered care. In her current role, she is responsible for overseeing all client services (except the OMHC) and ensuring the standardization and quality of care across the organization. Her leadership is marked by a deep commitment to implementing evidence-based practices that support clients in achieving greater independence and improved quality of life.

Lisa’s journey into the world of psychiatric rehabilitation began during her undergraduate studies at Hood College, where she completed an internship at Way Station (a division of Sheppard Pratt) in Frederick, Maryland. It was there that she first experienced the transformative power of collaborative care. Working alongside adults with serious and persistent mental illness, Lisa saw how clients and staff could work together as equals, and this model of care became the foundation for her career. After completing her B.A. in Psychology, Lisa immediately took a position in Way Station’s Residential Rehabilitation Program, where she began her lifelong commitment to supporting individuals with mental health challenges.
Throughout her career, Lisa has held key leadership roles at various nonprofit organizations in Maryland and Virginia, as well as in the Loudoun County Government. At Family Services, Inc. (a division of Sheppard Pratt), Lisa served as the Director of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services. She played a pivotal role in securing a SAMHSA Primary Behavioral Health Care Integration (PBHCI) grant, which included the adoption of an Electronic Health Record system. This experience led her to become the Director of Health Information Technology, overseeing IT and Billing Departments.

However, after several years in the IT realm, Lisa felt the pull to return to client-focused work. When the opportunity to join Cornerstone Montgomery as CPO arose, she knew it was the perfect chance to re-engage directly with program clients and services. Lisa’s connection to Cornerstone runs deep, as she had previously collaborated with the organization on the PBHCI grant and shared clients.
At Cornerstone Montgomery, Lisa has led several key initiatives that have had a lasting impact on the organization. One of her most significant achievements has been the complete reorganization of the Residential Crisis Services (RCS). Faced with the challenge of rebuilding the program after the departure of several key staff members, Lisa integrated crisis services across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring consistency and excellence in care delivery. She has continued her work in unifying the Southern Maryland programs, moving them under corresponding service lines to ensure a cohesive and client-focused approach, no matter the location.
Lisa’s leadership is deeply informed by her own personal experiences. Growing up in a family that faced economic hardship, and with an older brother diagnosed with schizophrenia and several family members experiencing significant mood disorders, Lisa understands firsthand the challenges associated with mental illness. Her father’s death at a young age from complications related to diabetes, exacerbated by a lack of access to preventative care, also shaped her commitment to addressing social and economic injustices through her work. These experiences drive Lisa to create systems that provide equitable support to all clients, regardless of their background.

Outside of her professional life, Lisa is a dedicated mother to two teenage daughters, who both challenge and inspire her. To recharge, she enjoys playing Dungeons and Dragons, where she takes on the role of a Barbarian character, solving problems with strength and creativity. This creative outlet allows her to approach her work with renewed energy and passion.

Lisa’s greatest motivation is the desire to leave people better off than she found them. She is driven by the progress her clients make, whether they’re achieving personal goals or gaining independence. Her leadership is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Narrative Bio:
Marisa S. Gillum is a highly accomplished leader in nonprofit management, currently serving as the Chief Administrative and Compliance Officer at Cornerstone Montgomery. With a Master’s degree in Social Work from Howard University and over two decades of experience in human services, Marisa has built a career defined by her commitment to balancing operational excellence and regulatory compliance. She is responsible for managing Cornerstone Montgomery’s administrative operations, which include compliance, facilities, information technology, training, and legal matters. Her work is focused on ensuring that the organization adheres to regulations and policies while minimizing risk and protecting the organization from potential legal or financial repercussions.

Marisa joined Cornerstone Montgomery in June 2015, during a pivotal time when the state of Maryland required mental health organizations to achieve national accreditation. Having successfully navigated this process for two similar organizations, Marisa found Cornerstone Montgomery to be a natural fit. She was drawn to the mission-driven professionals at the organization, whose dedication to serving individuals with persistent mental illness resonated with her passion for nonprofit work. Under her leadership, Cornerstone earned its first three-year CARF accreditation in August 2017, a significant milestone that underscored the quality of care provided by the organization.

Throughout her tenure, Marisa has led several key initiatives that have had a lasting impact on the organization’s growth and development. She played a pivotal role in expanding Cornerstone Montgomery’s facilities, overseeing updates to group homes, leading the renovation of the Southport Hub, and supporting the acquisition of a third office space to bridge the gap between behavioral health and primary care services. Her focus on enhancing the organization’s data infrastructure and quality assurance programs has further solidified her influence on Cornerstone’s operational success.

Marisa’s extensive experience in nonprofit management spans program and administrative operations, fund development, government grants and contract management, and risk management. Her leadership approach is shaped by her belief that every role within an organization is vital to the success of its mission. Whether working directly with clients or supporting the teams behind the scenes, Marisa understands that collaboration is essential to driving positive outcomes. Her ability to incorporate feedback from staff at all levels ensures that Cornerstone Montgomery continues to grow and thrive.

What motivates Marisa in her work is the transformative outcomes achieved by Cornerstone Montgomery’s clients. Whether it’s helping someone move from homelessness to stable housing, securing employment, or overcoming the stigma of mental illness, Marisa is driven by the tangible impact that Cornerstone’s services have on the community. Under her guidance, the organization has consistently seen reduced rates of incarceration, increased housing stability, and overall improvements in clients’ wellness and quality of life.

Outside of work, Marisa enjoys spending time with her daughters and her two-year-old poodle, Luna Bella. She finds joy in laughter, sailing with close friends and family, and exploring new destinations—having visited 17 of the 50 states she hopes to see. These personal passions help her recharge and bring fresh creativity to her professional role.

Narrative Bio:
Quincy Inman is a dedicated and visionary nonprofit leader and fundraiser, his innovative personal approach to fundraising, strategic planning, and community engagement sets him apart from other fundraisers. With a diverse background spanning multiple sectors, Quincy has made a significant impact at every stage of his career, driving organizational growth and mission advancement through strategic fundraising and public relations efforts.

Quincy is currently the Director of Development and Communication at Cornerstone Montgomery, where he leads efforts to diversify and strengthen revenue streams. His ability to create and implement high-level fundraising strategies has proven essential in supporting the organization’s mission of providing critical mental health services.

Previously, Quincy served as the Senior Relationship Manager for the United Negro College Fund’s (UNCF) Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. In this role, he oversaw the management of the UNCF/Koch Scholars Program (UKSP), handling complex components like the Learning Management System and CRM. He developed key strategies to increase platform awareness, produced detailed reports for donors, and supported growth initiatives by analyzing engagement metrics. During his time at UNCF, Quincy also wrote a groundbreaking proposal that led to the creation of the organization’s first-ever pitch competition, providing Black students with capital to support their entrepreneurial ventures. He also designed and implemented the “Pathways to Pitch” symposium, empowering young Black urban students with the skills and confidence to pursue their business ideas.

Quincy’s expertise in development and communication was further demonstrated during his time as the Development and Communications Manager for My Sister’s Place, Washington D.C.’s first domestic violence shelter. There, he raised over $1.5 million in revenue, orchestrating comprehensive communications strategies and cultivating strong relationships with donors and stakeholders. His leadership at FAIR Girls, an anti-human trafficking nonprofit, was equally transformative—he not only led the organization to record-breaking fundraising success, surpassing the $1.2 million annual goal but also managed the highest-grossing fundraiser in the organization’s history, raising over $100,000. Quincy was instrumental in sourcing funding that enabled FAIR Girls to obtain a brick and mortar safe house for the Vida Home, a 24 hour safe house for human trafficking survivors in the Nation’s Capitol.
Quincy’s career trajectory also includes pivotal roles at the National ALS Association, where he served as Senior Community Engagement Manager. In this role, he coordinated corporate sponsorships and large-scale community events, including the Walks to Defeat ALS, across multiple states. He also developed volunteer and ambassador programs to broaden engagement. Earlier in his career, Quincy contributed to the Center for Growing Talent by PMA, where he managed $2.5 million in sponsorships and corporate contributions, surpassing contributor retention goals with an impressive 92% retention rate.

In addition to his work in fundraising and communications, Quincy has a background in public relations, having served as Director of Special Events and Fundraising at United Cerebral Palsy, where he led efforts that exceeded revenue goals by 32%. His work in special events, including galas, 5K races, and community programs, has left a lasting impact on organizations, fostering stronger community ties and increasing donor engagement.

Quincy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications and Public Relations from Chestnut Hill College, where he was a “full ride” Devlin Scholar. His leadership and dedication to social equity have earned him several prestigious awards, including Princeton University’s Princeton Prize in Race Relations and the Produce Marketing Association’s “30 Under 30” recognition.

Quincy’s entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in his contributions to UNCF, where he not only created opportunities for students but also laid the foundation for ongoing community support through initiatives like the “Pathways to Pitch” program. His ability to blend strategic planning with a deep sense of purpose has been instrumental in his success across various sectors.

Outside of his professional life, Quincy is the owner of a boutique interior design firm—a passion he shares with his father. He also enjoys politics and tackling weekend building projects. Known for his DIY adventures, Quincy is always eager to share his latest projects and talk about the new tools he’s acquired. He cherishes time with family and friends, especially his young nephews, and enjoys the company of his loyal cavapoo, Franklin, a spirited companion.

Prior Experience & Narrative Bio:
Stan Estremsky is an accomplished financial leader with a strong background in accounting and executive management. As the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Cornerstone Montgomery, Stan is responsible for overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, financial and regulatory reporting, banking relationships, forecasting, and billing. With a keen focus on operational and financial performance, Stan works closely with various departments to ensure that Cornerstone Montgomery has the resources needed to serve its clients effectively.

Stan has played a pivotal role in transforming the organization’s financial outlook, leading a major turnaround to profitability. He was instrumental in the successful integration of financial processes and procedures following the merger between Cornerstone Montgomery and the Southern Maryland Community Network. His leadership has been critical in navigating the complexities of merging two large organizations while maintaining financial stability and ensuring that the mission of Cornerstone Montgomery is fully supported.

Stan’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting from Loyola University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1986. He further enhanced his leadership skills by completing the prestigious Executive Leadership Program at Harvard School of Business and Government in 2000. His expertise in finance and leadership has been recognized through his professional affiliations with the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

What Stan enjoys most about working at Cornerstone Montgomery is the opportunity to collaborate with a talented and dedicated team of professionals who are committed to making a positive impact on the community. He finds fulfillment in aligning the organization’s financial strategies with its mission to ensure that clients receive the highest quality of care.