RWJBarnabas Health Names Francis J. Giantomasi to the Board of Trustees

Marc Berson Honored Posthumously and Named Trustee Emeritus

West Orange, NJ, March 16, 2026-RWJBarnabas Health has appointed Francis J. Giantomasi, Esq., as a new member of the RWJBarnabas Health Board of Trustees, effective immediately, while also posthumously honoring late Board Chair Marc Berson as Trustee Emeritus.

Mr. Giantomasi has served as a member of the Board of Trustees for Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBI) since 2008 and has served as the Chair of the Board since 2019, where he succeeded Mr. Berson. He also serves as a member of the RWJBarnabas Health Quality Committee.

Mr. Berson dedicated much of his time to serving the community through his involvement in numerous nonprofit and community organizations. He played an integral role in supporting some of Newark, New Jersey's key institutions, reflecting his long-time belief in and support of Newark's resurgence. He also invested in a wide range of properties in urban areas throughout the country, but most notably in Newark, and championed the health system's social impact work and prioritizing health outside the hospital walls.

Mr. Giantomasi is a leading real estate attorney shaping the landscape and economy of New Jersey. He brings more than four decades of experience in real estate acquisitions, sales, development, complex commercial transactions, and is currently Co-Chair of the Executive Committee of CSG Law, where he plays a critical role in defining the firm's vision and strategy for the future. Additionally, he was appointed to the transition teams of both Governors Phil Murphy and Mikie Sherrill.

"Frank's career of service building a stronger economy for our state and its residents aligns with our long-held mission of building and sustaining a healthier New Jersey," said Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer for RWJBarnabas Health. "He has been a leader for us locally as a board member at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, consistently inspiring others to raise the bar in the pursuit of excellence. I am excited to welcome his experience and expertise to the RWJBarnabas Health Board of Trustees as we chart a strong future for health care in New Jersey."

"Frank has been a tremendous advocate, championing the quality improvement work and prioritizing the advancement and growth of the health system," added Susan Reinhard, Chair, RWJBarnabas Health Board of Trustees. "We are incredibly grateful for his leadership and support for our teams. Frank is a true ambassador, and we are fortunate to have him serve on our Board."

"I am honored to serve as a member of the Board of Trustees for RWJBarnabas Health. I have centered my career on strengthening communities and supporting responsible growth," said Mr. Giantomasi. "My service as a Trustee and Chair reflects that same commitment, and I'm honored to help advance the system's mission of improving the health and well-being of our communities across New Jersey," he continued.

Mr. Berson dedicated much of his time to serving the community through his involvement in numerous nonprofit and community organizations. He played an integral role in supporting some of Newark, New Jersey's key institutions, reflecting his long-time belief in and support of Newark's resurgence. He also invested in a wide range of properties in urban areas throughout the country, but most notably in Newark, and championed the health system's social impact work and prioritizing health outside the hospital walls.

"Few leaders have had the impact of our late friend and trustee, Marc Berson," said Mr. Manigan. "A member of our Board of Trustees from the very birth of RWJBarnabas Health, and later as our chair, Marc always kept us focused not just on the need to provide the best care for those in our hospitals but also on our broader mission to embrace and partner deeply with the communities we serve. His legacy and spirit guide us still, and this honor will ensure they always will."

"Marc's influence has always gone well beyond the boardroom. He cared deeply about our communities and dedicated himself wholeheartedly to making them better," said Mr. Giantomasi. "Marc helped to build the strategic vision at NBI and was a true partner in executing on improving health care delivery. He is truly missed."

"We are proud to have named him as Trustee Emeritus to honor his advocacy and support," said Dr. Reinhard. "He was a great ambassador for RWJBarnabas Health."

About RWJBarnabas Health

RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive academic health system, caring for more than five million people annually. Nationally renowned for quality and safety, the system includes 14 hospitals and 9,000 affiliated physicians integrated to provide care at more than 700 patient care locations.

RWJBarnabas Health partners with its communities to build and sustain a healthier New Jersey. It provides patient-centered care in a compassionate manner and is the state's largest safety-net provider and leader in addressing the social determinants of health. RWJBarnabas Health provides food to the hungry, housing for the homeless and economic opportunities to those most vulnerable.

RWJBarnabas Health's commitment to enhancing access to care includes a transformative partnership with Rutgers University, including the Rutgers Cancer Institute - the state's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

RWJBarnabas Health is among New Jersey's largest private employers, with more than 45,000 employees, contributing more than $7 billion to the state economy every year. For more information, visit https://www.RWJBH.org