July 9, 2004

Director of Social Services retires from MGH

Gracious, compassionate, wise and optimistic are just a few words Jeanette Ives Erickson, RN, MS, senior vice president for Patient Care Services and chief nurse, used to describe Evelyn Bonander at a farewell reception June 23 under the Bulfinch tent. Bonander, who was director of MGH Social Services, retired July 2 after 19 years of service.

Bonander made numerous contributions as director, including the establishment of programs such as the HAVEN program, the Cancer Resource Room, the HOPES program and the Child Protection Consultation Team among many others.
Peter L. Slavin, MD, president of the MGH, made opening remarks at the celebration. "I'm honored to be here today to celebrate the career of an outstanding and much-loved member of the MGH community," said Slavin. "Evelyn, thank you for giving so much of yourself. The MGH is a better place today because of your vision and leadership."
Ann Daniels, PhD, LICSW, interim director of Social Services, and Michael McElhinny, MDiv, of the MGH Chaplaincy, also reflected on Bonander's career.

Above, from left, Ives Erickson, Bonander and Slavin.