Preferred Behavioral Health Group, a leading nonprofit provider of mental health, recovery, and prevention services, on Friday announced a slate of new leadership appointed to its Board of Trustees including Board Chair Michael Kokes and Vice Chair Jennifer Godoski.
The board also appointed two new trustees, Catherine M. Cunningham, MD, and Pamela A. Major. Together, these four bring exceptional expertise in business leadership, behavioral health, community empowerment, and systemwide innovation to PBHG’s mission of improving the lives of individuals and families throughout New Jersey.
“We are thrilled to welcome this new leadership team to our Board of Trustees,” said Tara Chalakani, CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group. “Each brings extraordinary talent, passion, and leadership that will help us advance our mission of delivering high-quality, compassionate behavioral health services. Their collective expertise will guide PBHG through its next chapter of growth and innovation.”
Michael Kokes, Board Chairman
A third-generation real estate developer, Michael Kokes is the founder and president of Kokes Properties, where he oversees strategic planning and daily operations. Prior to launching Kokes Properties, he served as vice president of The Kokes Organization, managing multiple construction projects and leading the successful divestiture of the family assets. Kokes brings deep industry knowledge, operational acumen, and a long-standing commitment to community development. A current member of the Board of Trustees, Michael succeeds departing Chairman Randy Minniear.
“PBHG plays a vital role in strengthening the mental health and well-being of our communities,” said Kokes. “I am honored to serve as board chairman and work alongside such dedicated professionals to support and expand the organization’s mission.”
Jennifer Godoski, Board Vice Chair
Godoski currently serves as Director of Policy and Government Affairs for New Jersey Resources. A respected leader in state government and public policy, Godoski previously served as Chief of Staff to the New Jersey Department of Transportation and worked for several Governors, members of Congress, and state legislators.
A graduate of the College of New Jersey, Godoski’s service to the public and her community is extensive. She serves as the Governance Chair of Crossroads of the American Revolution, as a trustee of NJSEED, and Co-Chair of the Monmouth County Chapter of Alliance for Action. Jennifer is also a board member of the Jersey Shore Partnership and serves as the Government Relations Committee Chair of the Monmouth Ocean Development Council.
“I’m excited to serve as Vice Chair of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, an organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of so many New Jerseyans,” Godoski said. “I look forward to working with PBHG as they continue to set the gold standard for behavioral services in Central Jersey and beyond.”
Catherine M. Cunningham, MD, Board of Trustees Member
Cunningham is the Section Chief of Psychiatry at Hackensack Meridian Health’s Ocean University and Southern Ocean Medical Centers. A board-certified psychiatrist with specialized training in perinatal mental health, she completed her residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and serves as an assistant professor at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.
In January, Cunningham will begin serving as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Hackensack Meridian Health’s Carrier Clinic.
Pamela A. Major, Board of Trustees Member
A coach, author, vision strategist, and playwright, Pamela A. Major has dedicated her career to building community capacity and empowering individuals. While working within the Monmouth County Human Services Division, through the Behavioral Health Division, she founded the Monmouth County Stigma Free Coalition and led efforts to increase awareness of mental health, domestic violence, and sexual assault.
Major is a trained ACE Interface speaker and author who holds master’s degrees in teaching and in human services counseling/life coaching.
ABOUT PBHG
Preferred Behavioral Health Group is at the forefront of behavioral healthcare in New Jersey, offering comprehensive services since 1978. Committed to fostering healing and hope, PBHG provides top-tier mental health, substance use, and prevention services with a focus on trauma-informed care and inclusivity. With a dedication to innovation and personalized care, PBHG empowers individuals, families, and communities to embrace well-being and attain optimal mental wellness.
