Some journeys come full circle in truly meaningful ways.
This year, we’re proud to share that our CEO, Bruce Boardman, has been honored with the Marvin Southard Award, which recognizes leaders committed to caring for the whole person and strengthening communities.
The award reflects the legacy of Dr. Marvin J. Southard, who helped shape mental health care in California by focusing on compassion, collaboration, and community-based support, especially for those facing both mental health and substance use challenges.
Bruce’s journey closely aligns with this mission.
He began his career over 35 years ago at River Community. Early in his work, he recognized that while many succeeded in treatment, they often struggled afterward. In response, he led the development of integrated outpatient and sober living models that significantly improved long-term recovery outcomes, reducing recidivism by 90 percent.
This proactive approach has guided his work ever since.
Over the years, Bruce has helped expand Social Model Recovery Systems into an organization that offers treatment, housing, support, and connection throughout Los Angeles County.
What distinguishes his leadership is its personal foundation.
Bruce is also in long-term recovery. He understands this journey both professionally and personally. His leadership reflects empathy, respect, and a belief in each person’s capacity for change.
Recently, Bruce shared a message that resonated with us:
We have to meet people where they are. Sometimes we set expectations without remembering that people are human beings first. Our role is to support them in a way that works for them—to help them to the best of their ability, not our ability.
He also reminded us in his acceptance speech:
Treat people with dignity and respect—the people we serve, our community, and the people we work with every day.
It’s simple, but it’s at the heart of everything we do.
Congratulations, Bruce. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate you as part of the SMRS family. Your leadership reflects the heart of our mission: meeting people where they are and supporting them every step of the way.
