Mike Knapik
SPRINGFIELD – Michael R. Knapik – a seasoned government and community leader in Western Massachusetts for over 25 years – has been named vice president of Government & Community Relations for Baystate Health.
In his new role, Knapik will formulate and advance Baystate Health’s legislative and community agenda in support of the health system’s charitable mission. He will also develop and implement the strategic agenda for legislative platforms and activities to nurture awareness, recognition and support for the health system.
Knapik will provide direction and oversight to the health system’s community benefits program and support partnerships with important constituents and organizations throughout the region.
Knapik comes to Baystate Health from the Office of Governor Charlie Baker, where as Director of the Governor’s Western Massachusetts Regional Office, he reports to the Governor, Lt. Governor, and Chief of Staff on needs and issues related to the constituents and communities of Western Massachusetts.
Prior to his position at the Office of the Governor, Knapik served as the Executive Director – Advancement, Alumni, and University Relations at Westfield State University where among other responsibilities he served as Executive Director for the Westfield State Foundation, Inc.
Knapik served as State Senator for the 2nd Hampden-Hampshire District for 10 terms representing 11 cities and towns in the Massachusetts State Senate and for two terms as State Representative, representing Westfield and Montgomery, in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
Among his many legislative highlights, Knapik served as a ranking member of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Joint Committee on Revenue and Senate Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets. While in office, he also advocated for district anchor institutions, including Baystate Noble Hospital and served as a member of the Joint Committee on Healthcare, responsible for implementing hospital payment reform.
“Mike Knapik has dedicated his career to making a positive difference in the lives of others with his service to the Commonwealth,” said Jane Albert, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Communications & External Relations, Baystate Health. “His breadth and depth of experiences with state and local government and long time commitment to the communities throughout Western Massachusetts make him ideal for this important leadership role at Baystate Health,” commented Albert.
Knapik holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the College of the Holy Cross.
His appointment at Baystate is effective February 19, 2018, and he will report to Jane Albert, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Communications & External Relations, Baystate Health.
Knapik and his family reside in Westfield, MA.
