Trinity Health Of New England Welcomes New Members to Board of Directors

HARTFORD, Conn. – Trinity Health Of New England is happy to announce the appointment of new members to its Board of Directors. At the beginning of the year, in January 2026, the Board welcomes two new members, Ivelisse A. Cruz and Kristen Eshleman.  

The Board of Directors plays a vital role in guiding the operations of Trinity Health Of New England, ensuring the interests of stakeholders are the primary focus, as the organization seeks to expand services and access while executing its core Mission to serve as a transformative, healing presence in the community. 

Joining the Board is Ivelisse A. Cruz, an office manager and legal assistant with DeFronzo & Petroskey, PC. Cruz has more than 30 years of experience in personal injury and brings a thoughtful, steady approach to her work. Over the years, she has developed strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills that help her handle complex situations with care. She is skilled at managing and resolving conflicts in a constructive way, always aiming for solutions that strengthen relationships. Ivelisse is the president of the Exchange Club of Waterbury and a board member of the Waterbury Exchange Club Charitable Foundation which raises funds for child abuse prevention. In addition, she is also the managing member of the Oh Boy LLC, Walking/Running events for child abuse prevention. Ivelisse’s deep understanding of colleague dynamics and conflict resolution makes her a valuable member of the Board of Directors.

The Board of Directors also welcomes Kristen Eshleman, Vice President of Library and Information Technology Services, Trinity College. In her role at Trinity College, Eshleman works to improve how the college manages and uses technology and data in support of its academic mission. As a member of the President’s Executive Leadership Team, Eshleman works closely with other senior leaders and the Board of Trustees to move key priorities forward. She oversees a team of 68 professionals and manages a $12 million budget. During her time at Trinity College, she has shown strong leadership and a practical approach to organizational development. 

“We are proud to welcome these outstanding leaders to our Regional Board of Directors,” said Montez Carter, President and CEO, Trinity Health Of New England. “Their diverse backgrounds, experience and intimate familiarity with the communities we serve will be invaluable as we work together to continue the incredible work being done in our Ministry. Their vision will be instrumental as we continue to adapt to the changing landscape of health care. I look forward to their insights and collaboration in our commitment to providing transformative, compassionate care to our communities.”

Cruz and Eshleman join other members of the Trinity Health Of New England Board of Directors, the Most Reverand Juan Miguel Betancourt; Garrett F. Casey, Jr.; Tina Weatherwax Grant, J.D.; Walter Harrison, PhD; Arosha Jayawickrema, John Kinney; Wesley Knauft, MD; Karl J. Krapek; Nancy M. Kroeber; Sister Barbara A. Mullen, CSJ; JoAnn H. Price; Michelle N. Theroux.