FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The Board of Directors of the American Family Therapy Academy (AFTA) has reluctantly accepted the resignation of Kiran Shahreen Kaur Arora, Ph.D. The Board deeply appreciates the vision and leadership Dr. Arora has shown throughout her tenure as President of the Board.

In accordance with Article IV, Section 4 of the AFTA Bylaws, the Board announces the succession of Vice President, Jane Bardavid, LCSW, to the position of President. Ms. Bardavid will fulfill the remainder of Dr. Arora's term, serving as President until June 30, 2017. An election is in process to determine which Academy member will serve the presidential term that follows, beginning July 1, 2017.

Ms. Bardavid is the retired director and now consultant of CAPE, a mental health clinic that provides affordable comprehensive services sensitive to the needs of older adults. She has devoted much of her career to ensuring that older adults receive their fair share from the mental health community.

She has served AFTA for over nine years in multiple capacities, as Vice President, Chair of the Development Committee, Board Secretary, a member of the Executive Committee, and a member of the Family Policy and Human Rights Committee. She is a graduate of Columbia University School of Social Work, Minuchin Center for Family Studies; Former Chair, of Queens Geriatrics Committee; a former member of the Executive Board, of the Coalition of Behavioral Health Agencies; Secretary, of Queensboro Council for Social Welfare; Instructor of Family Therapy, Adelphi School of Social Work; and a previous Clinical FT Supervisor.

The Board enthusiastically welcomes Jane Bardavid's leadership. She has worked closely and collaboratively with Dr. Arora over the past year in her capacity as Vice President. Her experience and demonstrated commitment to AFTA’s growth will ensure a seamless transition.