When Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) first opened its doors, we welcomed just five students, supported by a team of four staff and a handful of faculty.
From the beginning, CGI has been fueled by determination, resourcefulness, and a bold vision: to disrupt dysfunctional norms in healthcare and improve lives.
Over the years, our community has grown in size, but our tenacity has never wavered. CGI continues to attract passionate people—students, alumni, faculty, and staff—who are eager to join the movement toward better healthcare. It has been inspiring to see our message spread and to watch more of “our people” find their way to the DBH program.
Dr. Nicholas A. Cummings with the inaugural DBH graduates at the 2015 DBH Commencement Ceremony.
Growth with Integrity
As enrollment has increased, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to quality. Unlike many institutions, we cap our course enrollment to maintain small class sizes, fostering meaningful discussions and strong student-faculty connections. We continuously evaluate our effectiveness through student, faculty, and staff feedback, ensuring that our community shapes the future of the program.
One example of this collaboration is the creation of new electives, where students can propose and explore specialized topics if enough peers share the same interest. Transparency, trust, and open communication with all stakeholders remain at the core of how we grow while staying true to our mission.
DBH students, now alumni at the 2023 CGI Integrated Care Conference
Building Community Beyond Graduation
A central focus for me has always been preserving the close relationships that define CGI. Even in this time of growth, we are finding ways to bring alumni together for ongoing learning and to strengthen connections that last beyond graduation.
I often reflect on the courage it takes to join CGI—whether as a student, faculty member, or staff. We are still building our brand, and choosing CGI means taking a chance on something new. Yet, what stands out about our community is the spark of resilience: “Tell me I can’t do it, and I’ll show you.” CGI people shine under scrutiny, see the reward beyond the hard work, and know the value of a community that truly invests in their success.
Graduates at the September 2024 DBH Commencement Ceremony
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate Founders Day and look toward the next decade, I am deeply grateful to the faculty, students, alumni, and staff who have carried our mission forward.
Our graduates are not just scholars—they are change agents. Every DBH student defends a proposal to lead transformation in healthcare, and their passion continues to fuel hope for a better future.
When I speak with colleagues across the world, I am reminded that structural and cultural barriers to integrated care exist everywhere. Yet, I believe there is every reason for optimism. CGI graduates are building new ways to break molds, disrupt the status quo, and create systems that better serve our communities.
Even in challenging times, I trust that by leaning on each other and staying true to our mission, we will keep moving closer to our vision of a healthier, more integrated future.
With gratitude and hope,
Dr. Cara English, MA, DBH, PMH-C
Chief Executive Officer & Chief Academic Officer, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies
