With a broad and extensive range of experience and skills, the leadership team at the Partnership for Public Health (The Partnership) provides strategy and day-to-day operational oversight for an agency dedicated to improving the health and well-being of those who live in, work in, or visit the Lakes Region.
Tammy Carmichael
Chief Executive Officer
Tammy Carmichael, with 29 years of experience in public service and nonprofits, has been appointed CEO of the Partnership for Public Health. She has a proven track record of leading impactful social support and public health programs.
As Executive Director of PPH since 2020, Tammy has demonstrated strong leadership, fostered innovation, and driven organizational success. She is known for her forward-thinking approach, responsiveness to individual needs, and operational excellence.
Tammy’s leadership style is marked by transparency, accountability, and strong communication. She fosters collaboration, promotes an inclusive environment, and inspires her teams through emotional intelligence.
Committed to equity and improving public health outcomes, Tammy’s leadership extends beyond day-to-day operations. Her practical, outcome-driven philosophy is balanced by a genuine enthusiasm for empowering others.
Inspired by sociologist Margaret Mead, Tammy’s career in public health has been driven by a passion for helping others. From case management to policy advocacy, she has dedicated herself to improving the lives of individuals and communities.
One of my Public Health mentors stated, ‘A public health agency is what a community needs it to be’, taking that to heart my vision is that PPH will always be what our community needs to be as healthy and safe as possible.
Courtney DeVost
Chief Operating Officer
Courtney DeVost is the Chief Operating Officer at the Partnership for Public Health and is dedicated to improving public health across the Lakes Region and New Hampshire. Joining the organization in September 2020, Courtney has steadily grown her role, with prior position within the organization with a focus on finance, operations, and HR before assuming her current position.
With a strong focus on efficiency, transparency, and fostering a positive organizational culture, Courtney is committed to driving the Partnership’s mission forward and maximizing its impact on the community. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University, she is dedicated to continuous learning and actively pursuing certifications to ensure the organization adheres to the highest standards of nonprofit management.
I believe that fiscal responsibility and transparency in every aspect of our organization can lead us to growth and future opportunities that will benefit our community and the public health of our region.
Carissa Elphick
Senior Director of Advancement
Carissa Elphick serves as the Senior Director of Advancement and is responsible for leading the agency’s efforts to secure the resources necessary to achieve its goals, including fostering meaningful community relationships and enhancing brand visibility. With over a decade in the nonprofit sector, Carissa is a leader passionate for creating safer, healthier communities. She has been with the organization since 2014.
Previously, Carissa successfully managed the organization’s diverse programs and continues to lead the Winnipesaukee Public Health Council, a collaborative network shaping regional public health priorities and driving coordinated improvement efforts.
Carissa holds a Master of Arts Degree in Justice Studies from the University of New Hampshire and holds a broad range of professional certifications. She is a current member of the New Hampshire Commission on Aging.
I believe in the power of community to promote health and wellness. By building strong partnerships and providing essential resources, we can create a healthier future for everyone.
John Beland
Director of Emergency Preparedness and Response
John Beland serves as The Partnership’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Manager, a role he has held since 2017.
At the agency, John is responsible for all areas of emergency preparedness and training and works closely with area town officials, health officers, emergency management directors, fire/rescue workers, police, schools and others to: limit illness and death, preserve continuity of government/business, minimize social disruption and minimize economic loss.
Prior to joining the Partnership, he served as Deputy Coordinator, Lakes Region Mutual Fire Aid (LRMFA), which provides emergency communications and other value-added services to 35 communities across central NH. Prior to his work at LRMFA he served 30 years with the Gilford Fire-Rescue Department retiring as Chief of the Department in 2011. He also currently serves as Senior Staff Instructor at the NH Fire Academy.
John holds an A.S. in Fire Protection from New Hampshire Technical College in Laconia, is a Certified Public Manager and holds a number of professional certifications including from the Center for Domestic Preparedness, National Fire Academy and state and regional programs.
He serves on several community boards including Leadership Lakes Region, the Gilford Rotary Club, and the St Baldrick’s Foundation Childhood Cancer Fundraiser as event organizer.
I have been involved with the Partnership for Public Health’s Emergency Preparedness Council as an emergency responder. The work of the Partnership for Public Health, the Winnipesaukee Public Health Region is critical to the region should there be a public health emergency. I enjoy working collaboratively with our local community partners, and emergency responders to make a positive impact in the communities we serve.