By Hector Flores
Martin Payson, chairman of the NHCC board, said, "I am delighted to confirm Art Gianelli's unanimous appointment by the board ... He has demonstrated the leadership necessary to solidify NHCC's foundation and enable the county's health care system to prosper in the future by providing sound financial expertise and a commitment to quality health care."
Payson's announcement was made after the NHCC board meeting on Oct. 23.
In accepting the appointment, Gianelli said, "I'm looking forward to the challenge. This health care system's role remains critical to the well being of the region, and I am honored to be able to work with a dedicated, skilled group of employees and volunteers who are committed to [the NHCC¹s] mission of serving all the people of this county."
Nassau County Legislator Norma Gonsalves, a Republican from East Meadow, approved of the appointment. "Gianelli is an ace and has many of the qualities that are important in making the institution great," Gonsalves said. "He is a great communicator and reaches out to all parties that are impacted by his decisions. But most important, he keeps things at a nonpartisan level."
Jerry Laricchiuta, president of CSEA local 830, who represents close to 3,000 workers at NHCC, added that Gianelli has the knowledge and skill to get the corporation back on track. "We are very supportive of Gianelli," Laricchiuta said. "For the first time in many years the union has a healthy relationship with the management at NHCC. Gianelli has a great vision and mission. With his leadership and our skilled employees, we can make the NHCC the best health care system in the nation."
Bob Zafonte, president of the East Meadow Civic Association, called Gianelli the most competent person for the job. "He is honest and a no-nonsense guy and tells you where he stands," Zafonte said. "Gianelli also understands that you need the support of the community for any endeavor. Under his direction and supervision, [the hospital] will succeed in becoming a first-rate trauma center, providing excellent health care service to the residents of Nassau County as well as the poor, who depend exclusively on NUMC for their health care."
Gianelli was appointed the acting president and CEO of NHCC on June 1, by Payson, in an effort to help restore fiscal stability to the corporation, which was facing a $20 million deficit. Since then, Gianelli has updated the corporation's financial strategic plan and instituted a $240 million modernization program and a reform plan for the community health care centers.
Before his appointment, Gianelli served as deputy county executive for budget and finance under County Executive Tom Suozzi. While working for the county, he helped develop and implement the county's fiscal recovery plan.
Before his stint with the county, Gianelli was the director of operations for the Town of North Hempstead, where he was responsible for the town¹s fiscal and operational matters. His efforts enabled the town to improve its finances.
In 1991, Gianelli graduated summa cum laude from St. John's University with a degree in history. Three years later he earned a master¹s in political science from Brown University, and in 2003 he added an MBA from Dowling College. He is currently enrolled in Columbia University's Executive MPH program.
Gianelli lives in New Hyde Park with his wife, District Court Judge Sharon Gianelli, and two stepchildren, Cameron and Jessica.
Comments about this story? HFlores@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 283.
