David Hughes

As president of HSRI, David provides direction on the organization’s vision, culture, practice, and finances. He collaborates with our leadership team to establish and pursue long-term strategies for helping our clients achieve the greatest possible impact. David also leads projects around the country on a variety of issues.

With more than 25 years of experience, David is a nationally recognized expert in behavioral health research and systems change. He has devoted his career to working with public agencies and other researchers to strengthen services, transform systems, and inform policy development. He is particularly passionate about helping organizations design programs, initiatives, and policies that are data-driven, person-driven, and sustainable. He is committed to helping clients make sense of a complex landscape—so they can best leverage available funding streams, resources, and programs to provide impactful community-based services. Undaunted by obstacles, David’s enthusiasm, conviction, and practicality make him well-suited to helping stakeholders develop and execute a shared vision for effective supports.

David sits on the boards of other nonprofits, has received a Leadership Award from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and has been appointed to an advisory committee to provide guidance to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on health care quality. He is also well known for developing simulation models that help states and counties project the effects of innovative programs such as jail diversion.

Outside of work, David and his family are avid skiers and outdoor enthusiasts and spend much of their free time in the mountains in western Maine.

Education

• Doctorate in Social Policy from Brandeis University
• Master’s Degree in Social Policy from Brandeis University
• Master’s Degree in Applied Sociology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston