Addiction treatment leadership at Caron is entering an exciting new chapter with the recent appointment of Kristine Bashore as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer (COO). With over two decades of experience at Caron, Bashore’s promotion marks a significant step in advancing the company’s mission and operational capabilities.
A Veteran Leader with Comprehensive Experience
Since joining Caron in 2000, Kristine Bashore has been a key figure in the company’s growth and development. She has served in multiple leadership roles including Chief Human Resource Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, and Chief Administrative Officer. Her extensive background exemplifies the depth of addiction treatment leadership at Caron, blending operational expertise with a deep understanding of the company’s values and culture.
Before joining Caron, Bashore gained important human resources leadership experience as a senior manager at Covance, a global contract research organization. This diverse background equips her well to manage Caron’s broad portfolio of services and facilities.
Expansive Responsibilities as COO
In her new role, Bashore will oversee a wide range of critical functions including facilities management, human resources, training, quality assurance, compliance, risk management, admissions, regional services, business development, marketing, and communications. These responsibilities reflect the scope and complexity of addiction treatment leadership at Caron.
A major part of her portfolio will be managing the launch of the Keele Medical Center in 2023. This upcoming facility will enhance Caron’s capacity to deliver medical detoxification, co-occurring disorder treatment, and other specialized services, reinforcing Caron’s commitment to providing comprehensive care.
CEO’s Endorsement of Bashore’s Leadership
Brad Sorte, President and CEO of Caron, emphasized the importance of Bashore’s appointment, stating, “Addiction treatment leadership at Caron depends on visionary leaders like Kris Bashore. Her insight into our clinical excellence, mission, and culture of inclusion makes her the ideal person to lead operations as we implement our strategic plan.”
This endorsement highlights how Bashore’s promotion is not only about operational management but also about preserving and amplifying the values that have shaped Caron’s success for more than six decades.
Caron’s National Footprint and Commitment to Care
Founded in 1957 and based in Wernersville, Pennsylvania, Caron has evolved into a nationally respected provider of substance use disorder treatment. Operating in Pennsylvania, Florida, Washington D.C., Georgia, and New York, Caron offers a continuum of care that includes inpatient, outpatient, and specialized programming tailored to diverse populations.
The commitment to evidence-based treatment, holistic recovery, and family involvement reflects the heart of addiction treatment leadership at Caron. Through these efforts, Caron continues to set standards in compassionate, comprehensive care.
Launch of The Fran and Doug Tieman Center for Research
Adding to its leadership in clinical care, Caron recently opened The Fran and Doug Tieman Center for Research, a nonprofit facility dedicated to advancing addiction science. The center’s focus areas include identifying genetic markers linked to addiction risk, improving relapse prediction models, and repurposing FDA-approved medications to treat addiction and related disorders.
This investment embodies a forward-looking approach, showing how addiction treatment leadership at Caron extends beyond patient care to include scientific innovation aimed at transforming addiction treatment nationwide.
Expert Perspectives on the Importance of Research
Dr. Joseph Garbely, Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President at Caron, shared his perspective: “High-quality research requires proper funding, precision, patience, and diligence. Addiction treatment leadership at Caron is committed to making these investments to enhance understanding of relapse, expand treatment options, and ultimately make addiction a more preventable and treatable disease.”
This commitment to research underscores Caron’s dual focus on both delivering exceptional care and pioneering advancements in the field.
Looking Forward: A New Era of Growth and Impact
With Kristine Bashore at the operational helm and the launch of an innovative research center, addiction treatment leadership at Caron is well positioned to expand its impact and improve outcomes for individuals affected by substance use disorder.
These initiatives highlight a strategic blend of tradition and innovation — honoring Caron’s long-standing mission while embracing the opportunities that medical advancements and operational excellence bring.
As Caron continues to grow, its leadership team is focused on delivering best-in-class treatment, expanding access, and advancing the science behind addiction recovery.
Addiction treatment leadership at Caron remains steadfast in its commitment to providing hope, healing, and renewed life opportunities for patients and families across the country.
