Christian Health President and CEO Stephen J. Dumke Appointed to NJ’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Advisory Commission

Wyckoff, NJ (June 2, 2026) — With New Jersey’s aging population expanding and care needs becoming more complex, Christian Health President and CEO Stephen J. Dumke, LNHA, FACHE, has been appointed to New Jersey’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Long-Term Advisory Commission. In this role, Dumke will help ensure the state’s health care system effectively meets the evolving needs of residents living with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Established in 2023, the commission serves as a vital bridge between health care providers and state leadership, aiming to modernize New Jersey’s senior care continuum. As a commissioner, Dumke will utilize his expertise to identify opportunities to meet the growing needs of adults 65 and older.

“It is an honor to serve on this important commission at a time when New Jersey must thoughtfully prepare for the growing and evolving needs of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias,” said Dumke, whose two-year term took effect on May 6, 2026. “This work is about more than policy. It is about strengthening the systems of care that families rely on every day, expanding access to compassionate and high-quality services, supporting caregivers, and ensuring our state is ready to meet this challenge with innovation, dignity, and purpose.”

The commission consists of 12 members, including the state commissioners of Health and Human Services and the New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman, or their designees, who serve as ex officio, non-voting members, and nine public members. When public members’ terms expire, successors are appointed by the Governor in the same manner as the original appointments, including four appointments made based on recommendations from the Senate President or the General Assembly Speaker. The public members represent Alzheimer’s and dementia advocacy organizations, health care facilities that offer memory care services, geriatricians, psychiatrists, paid and unpaid caregivers, and neurologists.

“Stephen Dumke has spent his career working to improve care for seniors and vulnerable residents across New Jersey and brings decades of experience to his role on the NJ Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Long Term Advisory Commission. Through his willingness to collaborate across our state’s healthcare community and his firsthand experience working with residents and families, Stephen exemplifies the kind of thoughtful leadership that will help move the important work of the commission forward,” said New Jersey General Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin, who nominated Dumke for the appointment. “I have every confidence that his insight and expertise will guide conversations around how New Jersey can continue improving care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.”

Dumke joined Christian Health in January 2016 as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, overseeing all of the organization’s operations. In December 2024, he was named President and CEO, following the retirement of Douglas A. Struyk. Under his leadership, the 115-year-old nonprofit health care organization continues to advance its mission with conviction and commitment, strengthening the health and well-being of people of all ages through high-quality care that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of every person it serves.

Christian Health supports older adults and their families with comprehensive dementia care across its continuum of senior living communities, rehabilitation services, and mental health programs. With a personalized, integrated approach, the organization provides memory-care assisted living at Courtyard at Longview, memory-care skilled nursing at Heritage Manor, dementia-related behavior management at Southgate Special Care, and inpatient geriatric behavioral health care at Harbor at Ramapo Ridge. Christian Health's specially trained team ensures those with dementia receive the unique care they need at every stage, in a secure, comforting environment that promotes calm, prioritizes dignity, and fosters independence.

To learn more about Christian Health, please visit christianhealthnj.org.

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About Christian Health
Since 1911, Christian Health’s mission has been to offer a listening ear, a helpful hand, and supportive guidance throughout every stage of wellness. A nonprofit organization founded on the belief that everyone deserves exceptional care, Christian Health continues to evolve to meet the needs of our community. We provide a comprehensive continuum of mental health services, communities for adults and older adults, rehabilitation services, and educational programs that foster physical health and nourish the spirit. Our care is recognized through top honors, rankings, and accreditations from leading organizations, reflecting our commitment to the strictest standards and quality benchmarks. Caring is not simply what we do; it is who we are.

Media Contact:
Kelly Tanis
(201) 848-5921
KTanis@ChristianHealthNJ.org