Quality Institute Names Three Leaders to Board of Directors
Strengthening expertise in behavioral health, finance and policy
TRENTON — May 12, 2026 — The New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute today announced the appointment of Frank A. Ghinassi, Ph.D, ABPP, Elizabeth Maher Muoio, J.D. and Heather Howard, J.D., to its Board of Directors — bringing together nationally recognized leaders in behavioral health, public finance, and policy at a pivotal time for health care in the state.
Dr. Ghinassi, President and CEO of Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC) and Senior Vice President of the Behavioral Health and Addictions Service Line at RWJBarnabas Health, is a national leader in mental health and addiction services. He oversees one of the largest behavioral health systems in the country and has served on numerous national boards and commissions, shaping behavioral health policy and practice. His leadership will be an asset as the Quality Institute continues its extensive work to strengthen behavioral health for New Jersey residents.
Muoio, who served as New Jersey State Treasurer from 2018 to 2026 — the longest-serving Treasurer in more than 50 years — brings deep understanding of state budgeting, public programs, and the role of large purchasers in shaping the health care market. She oversaw a $58 billion state budget and critical programs, including the State Health Benefits Program, the largest public purchaser of health care in the state. Her experience in finance and policy will be instrumental in informing the Quality Institute’s work on affordability, sustainability, and the role of employers and public purchasers in driving value across the health care system.
Howard, a former New Jersey Commissioner of Health and Senior Services and now Professor of the Practice at Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs, returns to the Quality Institute board after a year-long hiatus. Howard brings expertise in public health and health policy at both the state and national levels. In her current role directing the State Health and Value Strategies program, she works with states across the country to advance policies that improve affordability, equity, and innovation in health care. Howard will help guide the Quality Institute’s efforts to advance state-level solutions that improve health care for residents.
“We are thrilled to welcome Frank, Liz, and Heather to our Board,” said Linda Schwimmer, President and CEO of the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute. “Each brings a powerful perspective at a critical moment for New Jersey’s health care system. From strengthening behavioral health services to understanding how major public programs and purchasers can drive value, to shaping and implementing policy at the state and national level, their leadership will help us advance our mission to improve safety, quality, and affordability of health care.”
About the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute
The New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, quality, and affordability of health care. Since 1997, we have led statewide efforts to transform health care by bringing together our diverse members — including health systems, insurers, providers, consumer groups, and employers — to find solutions grounded in evidence and collaboration.
Our work spans policy development, quality improvement, and community health initiatives that advance evidence-based policies and champion best practices. Our Mayors Wellness Campaign drives community health and wellness in partnership with 400 New Jersey mayors.
