Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has named Dr. Eric Goralnick as the new Secretary for the Commonwealth's Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS). An announcement made earlier today signaled an ongoing effort to improve the availability and quality of services for the state's veterans, with Goralnick bringing over 20 years of medical, military, and leadership experience to the table, according to a statement from the Massachusetts government.
Eric Goralnick's résumé reads as a mosaic of service and expertise; he is a seasoned emergency physician, a proud United States Navy veteran, and a leader with a nationally acknowledged finger on the pulse of healthcare operations, the collaboration between military and civilian health initiatives, and care specifically tailored to veterans and underserved groups. His selection comes at a crucial time when Massachusetts is focusing on bolstering its support systems for veterans, says Governor Healey, citing his profound understanding of the unique trials veterans face and their immense value to society; he embodies what it means to meet veterans where they are in their lives post-service.
Dr. Goralnick, in his response to the governor's endorsement, reflected on his personal connection to his forthcoming responsibilities, stating, "As a Navy veteran myself, I understand both the challenges of transition and the incredible value veterans bring to our communities," and he emphasized his commitment to providing Massachusetts veterans the resources and acknowledgment they've rightfully earned through their service, as per the same announcement.
In his new role, which he will assume in February, Dr. Goralnick is charged with not only continuing the delivery of state veterans’ benefits and overseeing high-quality care at Massachusetts Veterans' Homes, but also spearheading initiatives in mental health and suicide prevention, and ensuring veterans are supported as they transition from military life to civilian livelihoods. The expectation is that his extensive background in emergency medicine, coupled with his leadership experience at Mass General Brigham and as a Harvard Medical School associate professor, will transfer seamlessly into enhancing the lives of those who have served, melding past experiences into a future of heightened care and respect for Massachusetts veterans.
Former Secretary Jon Santiago had set the stage for transformation within EOVS, especially after the challenges that rose during the COVID-19 crisis, and Dr. Goralnick is poised to be the architect of its ongoing evolution. Dr. Andrea Gayle-Bennett will remain as the Interim Secretary until Goralnick officially steps into the role next month.
