Business Beat: Hospital Association of RI appoints Howard Dulude, interim president

The Hospital Association of Rhode Island (HARI) has appointed Howard Dulude as its new interim president, the board of trustees announced today. Dulude, an experienced healthcare and finance policy leader, will focus on guiding hospitals and health systems through Rhode Island’s changing healthcare landscape, the board said.

Dulude has served as vice president at the Hospital Association of Rhode Island since 2023. Previously, he was an executive at Lifespan for 13 years, where he was instrumental in implementing strategic initiatives and improving operational efficiencies across the health system. In an earlier stint at HARI, he held various positions, starting as associate vice president of finance and advancing to senior vice president. In these roles, Dulude was responsible for overseeing financial management and organizational development.

“At a time when hospitals and healthcare organizations have never been more crucial, Howard’s strategic insight and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission to improve healthcare in Rhode Island,” said Mary Marran, chair of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island’s board of trustees.

As interim president, Dulude will maintain the association’s long-term strategic direction and foster leadership development. HARI’s senior vice president, Lisa Tomasso, will continue to lead the association’s advocacy, government and public relations efforts. Dulude and Tomasso will collaborate closely with the board of trustees to drive the development and execution of HARI’s mission and goals.

Dulude will assume the role immediately and serve as interim president for one year. HARI’s board of trustees will form a search committee early next year to begin the recruitment process for a permanent president. Dulude will not be a candidate for the permanent president.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to support the Hospital Association of Rhode Island during this important time,” said Howard Dulude, interim president of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island. “I look forward to working with HARI’s board of trustees, members and staff to continue to advance the healthcare needs of the people in our community.”

In addition to his role at HARI, Dulude is vice president of the Adoption Rhode Island Board and a former president of the board for the Rhode Island Business Group on Health. He is a fellow of the Healthcare Financial Management Association and remains actively involved in the organization, contributing to both local and national initiatives. Dulude holds a Bachelor of Science from the College of Business at the University of Rhode Island and a Master of Business Administration from Northeastern University.

The Hospital Association of Rhode Island is the membership association for all hospitals and health systems in Rhode Island, taking a leading role in shaping healthcare policy. The association addresses critical issues related to the delivery, quality, affordability and continuity of care, working to improve the health and well-being of all Rhode Islanders. 

About the Hospital Association of Rhode Island: Founded over a half a century ago, the Hospital Association of Rhode Island (HARI) is a statewide trade organization that assists member hospitals in effectively meeting the health care needs of Rhode Island through advocacy, representation, education and services. To learn more visit www.hari.org.