For nearly a decade, Harold has served as the Food Service Program Manager at BHN, where he brings over 20 years of experience as a certified Executive Chef.  

Harold has a background in mental health, having worked as a case manager. His academic journey began at Tennessee State University, where he earned his undergraduate degree, followed by culinary school at the Connecticut Culinary Institute. But his commitment to service didn’t stop there—he also graduated from Hartford Theological Seminary and is currently the pastor of Solid Rock Community Baptist Church in Springfield.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Harold served in a specialized light infantry division for three years. His father was also an Air Force chef. 

In his current role at BHN, Harold and his team are responsible for preparing meals for all residential programs seven days a week. They provide food for over 300 people daily, from new HR hires to individuals in care. Since joining BHN, Harold has watched the team grow from just four staff members to more than 15, expanding their food programs as far as Boston. 

“What I love most is seeing the residents,” Harold says. “Because they’re not able to go home during holidays, seeing them enjoy a nice meal is the highlight of my day. It’s satisfying, like therapy. There is instant gratification that comes when someone enjoys a meal that you cooked.” 

A true advocate for excellence, Harold also became a ServSafe instructor and proctor, helping ensure kitchen safety and quality standards across the board. But his passion doesn’t stop there. He’s driven by the opportunity to inspire young cooks, train new talent, and foster a sense of pride in his team. “BHN is a great environment,” he says. “It’s an inclusive culture where we try to meet people where they are. It’s friendly to diversity.” 

When reflecting on the significance of Black History Month, Harold shares, “To me it’s a lifestyle more than a month. We publicly recognize ancestors with great achievements, and great strides in society. It’s about looking back and reflecting, as well as looking forward. We continue to make history.” 

Harold is the first African American to hold the Food Service program manager position at BHN. His journey, from the military to the kitchen and beyond, is an inspiring testament to leadership, service, and making a positive impact on the lives of others. 

Jordana Adair has been a dedicated part of the BHN team for 15 years, currently serving as the Program Director for Adult Community Crisis Stabilization. Her journey began in Holyoke at BHN’s CCS respite, where she started as a clinician and staff supervisor before being promoted to clinical coordinator. After transitioning to the Springfield location, she has been an essential leader for the past 8 years.

Jordana earned her Master of Social Work at Springfield College, where she first learned about BHN’s inclusive and flexible work environment. “I liked that BHN was a larger agency doing impactful work in the community where I lived,” Jordana shares.

“I’ve always enjoyed and felt fulfilled with helping people,” she says. “I always wanted to do something in human services, because I’m intrigued by how people think, how the brain works, and why they do what they do.” 

Crisis work piqued her interest. “It’s different than therapy, because it’s helping people in their most vulnerable state. It’s rewarding work in such a short period of time. These are individuals, and they’re unique and different. Because of how crisis works, people don’t stay with us too long and our clientele quickly changes. The whole team approach is very different because of how many people we work with, and our bond is very special.”

Jordana has also guided many interns on their journey and takes pride in seeing them be successful in their own careers. “What motivates me is that BHN as an agency really looks out for their employees. “It’s beneficial for me to be in a helping role and to feel supported in doing so. They’re ahead of the game.”

When asked what Black History Month means to her, Jordana says, “In a world where hatred still exists... It's a time for ALL people to recognize and celebrate the contributions to the world that black people have made and continue to make.”