Conversations with Women of Distinction with Dayna Gladstein

Join us for this new series of monthly fireside chats at Innovate Newport with a local Woman of Distinction (entrepreneur, businesswoman, elected official, community leader, or author) and the Chamber President.

All are welcome to coffee, tea, fruit, and pastries upon arrival. The speaking program will begin around 9:15 and guests will hear a 20-30 minute conversation and have the opportunity to ask questions to follow. After the Q&A, all are welcome to stay and network. The Conversations with Women of Distinction series is sponsored by Newport This Week.

Our September Woman of Distinction is Dayna Gladstein, MSW, LICSW 

Dayna Gladstein, President & CEO of Newport Mental Health, is the quintessential servant leader, unwavering in her commitment to placing the needs of clients at the forefront. She embodies compassion, viewing each individual not merely as a client, but as a person deserving the highest quality care to enhance their well-being.  

Her passion for client success, combined with her operational acumen and talent for leadership, led to her appointment as President & CEO in February 2024, after serving for four years first as Chief Operating Officer and then Executive Vice President. As President & CEO, Dayna seamlessly integrates her leadership talents and operational experience to oversee all clinical and business operations. In addition, she is responsible for making critical decisions, analyzing trends, assessing potential risk, and making informed choices which drive Newport Mental Health’s growth and financial sustainability. 

At the core of Dayna's approach lies a clear vision, driven by purposeful goals. She adeptly steers the strategic development of Newport Mental Health, ensuring seamless alignment with the organization's mission and strategic framework.  A solutions-focused problem solver, she deftly navigates obstacles, always striving to cultivate an environment of care where innovation thrives, and the well-being of clients, staff and community partners is paramount. 

In her current position, she is also responsible for building and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships to foster business opportunities and enhance the organization’s reputation for delivering equitable, welcoming, and quality services. She is a highly approachable and articulate face of the organization at external events, promoting the organization’s mission, vision, and values. Her extensive experience working with, and bringing together, advocates, providers, municipalities, state, and federal governments is a major contributor to her leadership success.  

Dayna is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). She holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Minor in Computer Science from Rhode Island College. In 2020, she received the Alumni Service Award from Rhode Island College in recognition of her contributions and impact in her field.  She serves on the Board of Directors for Newport Mental Health, Horizon Pharmacy, Horizon Healthcare Partners, Integrated Health Partners, Rhode Island Coalition for Children and Families, Washington Square Services Board, Substance Use Mental Health Leadership Council of Rhode Island, and Freedom House.   



Confirmed Women of Distinction include:
January 11th: Elizabeth Lynn, Executive Director, van Beuren Charitable Foundation

February 8th: Cristina Offenberg, Esq. Silva, Thomas, Martland & Offenberg, Ltd.

March 7th: Crista Durand, Newport Hospital

April 4th: Gail Alofsin, Newport International Boat Show, Author, Keynote Speaker

May 9th: Britt Riley, Founder, The Haven Collection

June 13th: Kathy Staab, Owner & President, Jane Pickens Theater + Event Center

July 11th: Christine Stenning, Chair of League of Women Voters Newport County 

August 8th: Dana Borelli-Murray, CEO, Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England

September 12th: Dayna Gladstein, President & CEO, Newport Mental Health

October 10th: Katie Potter, Newport Chowder Co.

November 14th: TBD

December 12th: Brenda Brock, Farmaesthetics