Our Bureau
Albany, NY
The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) has appointed Tara Shajan, MSN, MBA, RN, PMH-BC, PhD, as Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of a New York State Psychiatric Center. The appointment recognizes her extensive leadership experience, clinical expertise, and commitment to excellence in psychiatric nursing and healthcare administration.
As Chief Nursing Officer and a member of the hospital’s executive leadership cabinet, Dr Shajan will oversee the strategic direction of nursing services, advancing evidence-based practice, patient safety, quality outcomes, workforce development, and standards of care across the organization.
Dr. Shajan brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in behavioral health and nursing administration. She has held senior roles at major healthcare systems, including Northwell Health, Montefiore Health, Catholic Health, NYC Health + Hospitals, and other leading organizations, with expertise spanning nursing operations, quality improvement, regulatory compliance, staff engagement, patient-centered care, and organizational transformation.
In her new role, she will lead efforts to strengthen professional nursing practice, clinical excellence, nursing education, leadership development, and recovery-oriented mental health services. She will collaborate with executive leaders, physicians, interdisciplinary teams, and community partners to improve healthcare outcomes and advance OMH’s mission.
Dr. Shajan is also recognized for her contributions to the nursing profession through national and international leadership roles. She currently serves as Vice President of the National Association of Indian Nurses of America (NAINA), supporting nursing leadership, mentorship, professional development, and advocacy initiatives.
Reflecting on her appointment, Dr. Shajan stated:
“I am deeply honored to serve as Chief Nursing Officer for the New York State Office of Mental Health. This opportunity represents both a privilege and a responsibility to support our dedicated nursing workforce, advance professional practice, and ensure the highest standards of safe, compassionate, and person-centered care for the individuals and families we serve. I look forward to working alongside our talented teams to strengthen nursing excellence and continue improving the quality of behavioral healthcare.”
This appointment reflects Dr. Shajan’s dedication to nursing leadership and her commitment to empowering nurses, advancing innovation, and improving mental healthcare outcomes across New York State.
About Tara Shajan
Tara Shajan, MSN, MBA, RN, PMH-BC, PhDH, is a healthcare executive, nursing leader, and advocate with extensive experience in psychiatric and behavioral health services. She has dedicated her career to advancing nursing excellence, improving healthcare quality, developing future nurse leaders, and expanding access to high-quality mental health care.
