The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard has announced a leadership transition following the retirement of Gerri H. Walker. Xavier Bancroft is now serving as the Center’s President and CEO.

Bancroft most recently served as the Center’s Vice President of Operations, where he led a wide range of initiatives to strengthen programs, improve quality, and expand access to care. He was responsible for overseeing residential treatment and clinical services, driving quality assurance and compliance, managing budgets, and leading multidisciplinary teams. His ability to align day-to-day operations with long-term strategic goals has positioned the Center to continue growing its impact and reach under his leadership.

“Xavier has been an integral part of the Behavioral Wellness Center’s growth and success,” said Rev. Ralph E. Blanks, Board Chair. “His deep understanding of our mission, his strategic mindset, and his commitment to patient-centered care make him the right leader to guide the Center into the future.”

As CEO, Bancroft brings a collaborative, outcomes-driven approach focused on expanding access to high-quality behavioral health care. He is committed to fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and compassion that supports both patients and staff.

“Working to treat the whole person and empowering recovery, that’s what all of this is about,” said Bancroft. “Together, we will continue to deliver culturally responsive, life-informed services for individuals facing mental health and substance abuse challenges, working to transform lives through compassionate care. It is my privilege to follow in Mrs. Walker’s footsteps and lead The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard into its next chapter.”

The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard, which is located at 8th and Girard, is a Philadelphia Drug & Alcohol Treatment Center offering both inpatient and outpatient Psychiatric and Substance Abuse counseling and treatments. It was formerly known as the North Philadelphia Health System – Girard Medical Center, but it has always been at the forefront of innovation in the provision of treatment services for individuals with substance use and mental health challenges.

For the last several years, the Be Well Center has made Newsweek’s “America’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers” list, which is a designation recognizing the nation’s top facilities based on their quality of service, reputation, and accreditation.