FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Victoria May
Director of Marketing and Communication
The Brien Center
413.629.1247
[email protected]
The Brien Center Welcomes Anthony “AJ” Cote as New Director of Development

Anthony “AJ” Cote
PITTSFIELD, MA – April 16, 2025 – The Brien Center for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is proud to announce the appointment of Anthony “AJ” Cote as its new Director of Development. In this role, Cote will lead fundraising, donor engagement, capital campaign planning, and community outreach efforts to support the Brien Center’s mission of delivering accessible, high-quality behavioral health and addiction services throughout Berkshire County.
Cote brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit development and a deep dedication to community service. He most recently served as Director of Development for St. Michael’s Medical Center and previously held key roles at the Institute for Legislative Action and Be Great Community Services. His work has focused on expanding donor networks, building strategic partnerships, and strengthening long-term philanthropic support.
“We are thrilled to welcome AJ to our team,” said Diana L. Knaebe, President and CEO of the Brien Center. “His development expertise, leadership skills, and passion for mental health advocacy make him an outstanding addition to our organization.”
Cote holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Philosophy from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. As Director of Development, he will oversee major giving, annual appeals, grant development, capital campaign initiatives, and special events—ensuring continued support for programs that impact more than 10,000 individuals each year.
About the Brien Center
The Brien Center for Mental Health and Substance Use Services is the leading provider of community-based behavioral health care in Berkshire County. With a history spanning more than 100 years, the Brien Center is a nonprofit agency committed to providing high-quality, accessible services to individuals and families affected by mental illness, emotional challenges, and substance use disorders. Serving over 10,000 people annually, the Brien Center offers a full continuum of care, including crisis services, outpatient therapy, residential programs, case management, and specialized services for children, adults, and those with co-occurring conditions.