Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, has appointed Swampscott resident Dr. Peter Sheckman as chair of its board of directors.

Sheckman practiced internal and infectious disease medicine for more than four decades, most recently at North Shore Physicians Group, now part of Mass General Brigham. He was a partner and served as medical director for 25 years. Now retired, Sheckman was also the hospital epidemiologist of Lynn and Union Hospitals. 

Jane Puffer, of Acton, also joins Scheckman on the board of directors as the vice chair. She has served on Bridgewell’s board for 14 years. 

“Peter and Jane have contributed immeasurably to Bridgewell’s growth and stability since their appointments to the Board of Directors over a decade ago,” said Christopher Tuttle, Bridgewell president and CEO.  “Their combined oversight and deep understanding of our organization and the needs of the individuals we serve will be invaluable as chair and vice chair.”

Sheckman served on Project Cope’s board of directors for nearly a decade, including two years as board chair, before the organization merged with Bridgewell 14 years ago.

Bridgewell, headquartered in Peabody, supports people with disabilities and other life challenges in living safe, self-directed, and productive lives. The organization provides services including housing, day programs, outpatient treatment, recovery support, education, and employment training.

“As board chair of Project Cope, I supported the organization’s merger with Bridgewell over a decade ago,” Sheckman said. “What a revelation it has been for me to watch the growth and development of the organization through incredible leadership and mission-driven work.  It is with so much respect for the work and motivation of Bridgewell’s leadership team and the staff that I have wanted to stay involved all these years, and now, as board chair.”

Sheckman also serves on the boards of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, AllCare VNA and Resources, AllCare Hospice, and the Explorers Lifelong Learning Institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in music from Yale University and a medical degree from the New York University School of Medicine.