SouthLight Healthcare’s Jennifer Whitfield Elected to Benchmarks Board 

SouthLight Healthcare is proud to share that Jennifer Whitfield, our Chief Programs Officer, has been elected to the Board of Directors of Benchmarks, a statewide nonprofit association serving North Carolina.  

What is Benchmarks and What Does it Do? 

Benchmarks is a membership organization that supports community-based providers delivering behavioral health, intellectual and developmental disability, and substance use services across the state. Through advocacy, education, collaboration, and policy engagement, Benchmarks works to strengthen the service system, enabling individuals and families to access high-quality, person-centered care in their communities. Its board plays a critical role in guiding this work and ensuring that provider perspectives—and the needs of those receiving services—remain at the forefront.  

Recognizing Jennifer’s Leadership & Advocacy 

At the organization’s annual meeting, the Chair of the Benchmarks Board highlighted Jennifer’s appointment, noting her deep knowledge of programs and her understanding of the real-world needs of people and communities. The Chair shared that Jennifer “will make a great addition to the Benchmarks board,” citing her practical experience and values-driven leadership.  

SouthLight Healthcare’s Commitment to Access, Equity, and Quality 

Adam Hartzell, CEO of SouthLight Healthcare, echoed that sentiment. “There is no better advocate for the needs of program participants than Jennifer, who has been with us for 11 years,” Adam said. “Her presence on the Benchmarks board will assure that the voice of those receiving services will be heard.”  

Jennifer’s election reflects both her personal commitment to advocacy and SouthLight’s broader mission to advance access, equity, and quality in behavioral health care. We congratulate Jennifer on this well-deserved honor and look forward to the impact of her leadership at the state level.