Bassett Healthcare Network taps former state lawmaker as strategic-affairs liaison

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. — Bassett Healthcare Network says former New York State Senator James Seward has agreed to join the organization in an advisory capacity as a strategic-affairs liaison.

“Given the former senator’s decades of public service and intimate knowledge of the communities served by Bassett,” Seward will contribute “valuable” insight as the network seeks to “enhance” its services to the people and families living in rural Central New York, Bassett contends.

Seward, of Milford in Otsego County, retired from the State Senate in December after representing New York’s 50th and 51st districts for 34 years. His last district covers Schoharie, Otsego, and Cortland Counties, as well as parts of Tompkins, Herkimer, Chenango, Cayuga, Delaware, and Ulster Counties.

“I’m ready to tackle new things. But I’m also glad to do this on a part-time basis. I do want to smell the roses a bit, too,” Seward said.

“I wanted to continue actively serving our communities and improving our quality of life after leaving the Senate,” he continued. “What better way than by collaborating with Bassett? I will be advising on strategic initiatives to advance the network, improve the patient experience, and strengthen Bassett’s ties in the community.”

Dr. Tommy Ibrahim, president and CEO of Bassett Healthcare Network, said this move is a natural extension of Seward’s prior work. “As a state senator, he was a strong advocate of programs that support the health and well-being of the people in our region. This is just another way to serve the community he loves.”