Daniel Stephens, MD

Wellness Equity Institute | Board Member

Daniel Stephens, MD is an accomplished physician-executive with extensive leadership experience across the nonprofit, public health, and healthcare sectors. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Ramapo for Children, a mission-driven organization that fosters inclusive communities for children and youth with diverse social, emotional, and neurological needs.

Before becoming CEO in 2024, Dr. Stephens held the role of Executive Director at Ramapo, where he led strategic initiatives to expand the organization’s reach and impact. Previously, he served as Deputy Commissioner at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, where he oversaw the agency’s largest division and led its COVID-19 response for children and youth, including vaccination campaigns and public education efforts. He also spearheaded the launch of a $43 million initiative to support new families across New York City.

Dr. Stephens has also held leadership roles at Children’s Aid as Vice President of Health and Wellness, where he managed a $16 million budget and a team of over 130, delivering clinical and nutrition services to foster and community-based youth. Earlier in his career, he served as Director of Adolescent Medicine at Union Community Health Center in the Bronx, where he focused on improving youth health outcomes and advancing quality improvement strategies. His work there earned recognition from Crain’s New York Business for his innovative impact on public health in the Bronx.

A board-certified pediatrician, Dr. Stephens began his medical career as a hospitalist and junior faculty member at Harlem Hospital through Columbia University Medical Center. He completed his residency at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he also earned his medical degree. He holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Harvard University.

Known for his collaborative, data-driven leadership style, Dr. Stephens continues to champion equity, innovation, and measurable impact in child and adolescent health.