*Warwick, RI – June 19, 2024* – Coastline EAP/RI Student Assistance Services (RISAS) today announces the retirement of its esteemed CEO, Sarah Dinklage, effective at the end of this month. Ms. Dinklage's retirement marks the culmination of a distinguished 37-year career dedicated to enhancing the mental health and well-being of middle and high school students across Rhode Island.

Since establishing RI Student Assistance Services in 1987, Sarah has been a visionary leader, championing evidence-based programs to support students grappling with mental health and substance use concerns. Under her stewardship, RISAS has grown from a pilot initiative into a robust network offering comprehensive services to schools and communities statewide.

"It has been an incredible journey and a true honor to serve the students and families of Rhode Island," said Sarah Dinklage. "I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together and confident that the organization will continue to thrive and evolve to meet the needs of our community."

Board Chairperson, Keith Leduc, praised Sarah’s leadership, stating, "Sarah's impact on our organization and the lives of countless students is immeasurable. Her dedication, vision, and resilience have been the cornerstone of our success. We are deeply grateful for her service and wish her all the best in her retirement."

The Board of Coastline EAP/RI Student Assistance Services (RISAS) is also pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Wishart as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2024.  Kelly Wishart brings a wealth of experience to her new role, with over 25 years in the non-profit, human and social services world and a professional background rooted in the prevention field. Her extensive expertise in leadership roles positions her perfectly to continue and expand upon the vital work of Coastline EAP/RISAS.  Kelly has spent the last three years as the Chief Operations Officer for the organization.

"I look forward to continuing the work with our dedicated team to continue providing essential support to students and their families, and to develop new initiatives that meet the changing needs of our communities, as well as build upon the incredible foundation laid by Sarah Dinklage," said Kelly Wishart.

Joining Kelly to lead the organization into the future is Chief Program Officer, Melissa Emidy.  Over the last twenty years, Melissa has proven herself a dynamic and talented leader in the non-profit sector, building results-oriented relationships with community partners and funders while keeping the needs of kids first and foremost.
Board Chairperson, Keith Leduc, expressed confidence in the organization’s new leadership, stating, "Kelly and Melissa are exceptional leaders with proven abilities to manage complex projects and foster meaningful relationships. Their combined and extensive experience and dedication to service make them the ideal team to guide our organization into the future."
 
**About Coastline EAP/RI Student Assistance Services**
Coastline EAP/RISAS supports schools, communities, and workplaces with evidence-based programs, consultation, individual services, and group interventions, so that people can be and do their best at school, at work, and in their communities.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Kelly Wishart, CEO
Coastline EAP/RI Student Assistance Services 
Phone: (401) 732-9444
Email: kwishart@coastlineeap.com
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This press release is also available on our websites at [www.coastlineeap.org] or [www.risas.org]