Griffin Health in Derby names chair of the Department of Medicine

 Joao Fontes, M.D.

Griffin Health has announced Dr. João Daniel Trindade Fontes, MD, MPH, FACC, is its new Chair of the Department of Medicine.

Dr. Fontes brings a rare combination of deep clinical expertise, population health leadership, and academic rigor to the role. 

As Chair, he will lead the strategic direction of Griffin's medical services, overseeing clinical quality and safety, guiding physician engagement and performance, and identifying where new technology and innovation can improve how care is delivered. 

With extensive knowledge, experience, and leadership in academic and clinical healthcare, Dr. Fontes will be an instrumental addition to Griffin as it continues to evolve and enhance population health and value-based care initiatives. 

Dr. Fontes trained at Boston University School of Medicine, completing his residency in internal medicine alongside fellowships in advanced heart failure and cardiovascular medicine, and concurrent with a research fellowship in cardiovascular epidemiology at the landmark Framingham Heart Study. He holds a Master of Public Health with a concentration in Clinical Effectiveness from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where he built the analytical foundation he now applies to quality measurement, cost-effectiveness, and care delivery design.

Prior to Griffin, Dr. Fontes served as Director of Inpatient Cardiology Services and Director of Innovation and Technology in the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. He also served as Director of Quality and Population Outcomes at Pacific Cardiovascular Associates in Orange County, California, where he led practice-wide initiatives to improve outcomes and cost efficiency across a large cardiology group. He has held faculty appointments as Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He was recognized for exceptional instruction of residents and fellows with the Teaching Faculty of the Year Award at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Across these roles, Dr. Fontes has excelled in translating clinical expertise into stronger operational outcomes for the organizations he serves.

Dr. Fontes' commitment to accessible, high-quality care extends internationally. He has volunteered as a cardiologist and Board member with Moyo Cardiac Missions in Tanzania as part of an effort to advance complex cardiac care in emerging countries. These missions provide cardiac imaging, consultation, and hands-on training to local physicians and technologists caring for patients with congenital and rheumatic heart disease.  

“I’m proud to take on this role, and my focus is to be an exceptional leader,” Dr. Fontes said. “Griffin’s person-centered approach to care, and its commitment to the health of this community, is exactly what brought me here. Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to work that connects what happens at the bedside to how a health system performs as a whole. I look forward to strengthening the quality of care, partnering with our physicians to ensure consistent care delivery based on best practices, and a population health and value-based care strategy that serves patients well beyond our walls.”

About Griffin Health

Griffin Health is a not-for-profit health care system that includes the award-winning Griffin Hospital, an independent community teaching hospital located in Derby, Connecticut and its integrated medical practice Griffin Faculty Physicians.  Griffin Hospital is a 160-bed acute care community hospital serving more than 130,000 residents of the Lower Naugatuck Valley Region.

Griffin Hospital is the flagship hospital for Planetree, an international consumer healthcare organization dedicated to promoting patient-centered care, and has received national recognition for creating a healthcare facility and an approach to patient care that is responsive to the needs of the whole person and their loved ones. Griffin’s commitment to the patient-centered care philosophy enhances its mission to improve the well-being of its communities by empowering individuals with health education, wellness programs and assistance with conditions that adversely affect health. 

Many healthcare organizations around the world send visitors to Griffin Hospital’s facilities and incorporate its Planetree concepts into their healthcare delivery models.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Rheumatologist joins Griffin Faculty Physicians in Shelton office

Divya Mamootil, M.D.

DERBY - Griffin Faculty Physicians is pleased to welcome Divya Mamootil, M.D., a highly skilled and compassionate rheumatologist, to its multi-specialty medical group.

Dr. Mamootil joins Griffin Faculty Physicians Rheumatology after completing a fellowship at St. Luke’s University Hospital in Bethlehem, PA where she cared for individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoporosis, gout, vasculitis, psoriatic arthritis, and other rheumatic conditions and diseases with a focus on applying evidence-based medicine and demonstrating high-quality clinical skills to improve the patient’s health and well-being.

“I chose to specialize in Rheumatology because I want to be the doctor people turn to when something is wrong and no one else has been able to explain why," Dr. Mamootil said. "It's the work I love most, and it's what I do best.

"When it comes to treatment, there is rarely just one right answer. Taking the time to talk with each patient, we find what works together. More than anything, I want to be the doctor that people can count on - the one who listens, explains, and helps it all finally make sense."

Dr. Mamootil earned a degree in Science from the University of Toronto in Canada before receiving her medical degree from the Ross University School of Medicine in Barbados where she was on the Dean’s Honor Roll. She completed a residency in Internal Medicine at Ascension St. Agnes Hospital in Baltimore and enhanced her medical training with Rheumatology elective rotations at MedStar Washington Hospital Center and Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Dr. Mamootil is currently seeing patients at the Griffin Faculty Physicians Rheumatology office at 2 Ivy Brook Road, Suite 115, in Shelton. 

For more information or to make an appointment, call 203-735-4220.

Griffin Faculty Physicians provides patient-centered, personalized care with primary care locations in Ansonia, Naugatuck, Seymour, Shelton, Southbury and Oxford. In addition, the practice provides specialized care in Allergy/Immunology, Urology, Rheumatology, OB-GYN, Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, Gastroenterology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Breast Surgery, General Surgery, and Endocrinology. 

For more information, visit https://gfp.griffinhealth.org

Griffin Hospital honors certified surgical technician with BEE Award

DERBY - Griffin Health recently honored Certified Surgical Technician Lauren Atkinson of Branford with the Being Extraordinary Everyday (BEE) Award for nursing support caregivers.

The BEE Award at Griffin Health honors nursing support caregivers who are committed to providing an exceptional care experience for patients and their loved ones, and fellow caregivers. 

Just as the bee helps strengthen flowers, nurses provide high-quality, person-centered patient care with the outstanding assistance of a support team.

A caregiver at Griffin for three years, Atkinson was nominated by several fellow caregivers in Griffin’s Surgical Services department for her knowledge, skill and responsiveness in providing assistance wherever needed.

“Lauren is the definition of a team player,” the nomination for Atkinson stated. “She can scrub any case with ease and is always in demand by every surgeon who has had the privilege to work with her. Her calm demeanor and outstanding attitude makes our job so much easier.”

Griffin Health caregivers eligible for the BEE award are all non-nursing team members from the Griffin Health Patient Care Division, including Unit Clerks, Telemetry Technicians, Multi-Skilled Technicians, Obstetrics Technicians, Certified Surgical Technicians, Gastrointestinal Technicians, Central Processing Department Technicians, Certified Nursing Assistants, Mental Health Workers, Patient Safety Monitors, Continuous Video Monitoring Technicians, Environmental/Housekeeping Team Members, Patient Transporters, Dining Services Representatives, Valet Attendants and Shuttle Drivers.

Patients, visitors, and Griffin Health caregivers can nominate deserving members of the nursing support team by filling out a nomination form available at Griffin Hospital.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

 

Griffin offers healthcare training scholarships for Valley residents

ANSONIA - The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers, 219 Division St. is offering full-tuition scholarships for Lower Naugatuck Valley residents.

Funded by the Derby-Shelton Rotary Club and local families, the scholarships will pay the full tuition for the school’s Patient Care Technician (PCT) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs. 

Applicants for the PCT scholarship must demonstrate financial need, be a single mother, and a resident of Ansonia or Seymour. Applicants for the CNA scholarship funded through the Derby-Shelton Rotary Club must demonstrate financial need, be a resident of Derby or Shelton and show a history of community involvement. 

The school’s 15-week PCT program requires students to attend classes Monday through Thursday. The program offers ample hands-on training and opportunities for practical experience in the school's fully equipped mock hospital room and during the 80 hours of clinical experience. The course tuition includes textbook, liability insurance, CPR certification, clinical rotations and national certification exams. Upcoming scholarship application deadline is Jan. 4, 2027 for the Jan. 18, 2027 class start date.

The six-week CNA course offers students an affordable and condensed schedule with classes Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 5 p.m.-9 p.m. CNA program content includes infection control, legal and ethical responsibilities, communications, body mechanics, moving and positioning residents, personal care skills, nutrition, measuring vital signs, and restorative care. The program’s clinical experience will be at Griffin Hospital and a long-term stay facility, totaling 40 hours. After successfully completing the course and clinical experience, students will be qualified to take the certification exam for a Nursing Assistant in Connecticut. The CNA course tuition fee includes the course book and workbook CPR training, clinical rotation and liability insurance. Upcoming scholarship application deadlines include Oct. 26 for the Nov. 9 class start date, and Dec. 21 for the Jan. 4, 2027 class start date.

Anyone 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or GED may apply for admission to the school. 

For more information about the scholarships, other financial assistance opportunities or to apply, call 203-732-1276 or 203-732-7578 or visit griffinhealth.org/school.

About the School of Allied Health Careers

Approved by the Connecticut Office of Higher of Education and the State of Connecticut Department of Health, the Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers offers advanced hands-on training and personalized teaching in its Practical Nursing, Certified Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Medical Assistant, and Phlebotomy programs. 

The school has helped graduates achieve a high rate of success on national certification exams and has a strong job placement rate with most graduates quickly finding positions at area hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and medical practices.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

 

Healthy U at Griffin Hospital in Derby to discuss Hispanic health

DERBY -The Healthy U Lecture Series at the Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital will provide an in-depth discussion about healthy living for individuals with Hispanic heritage on Sept. 16 at 6 p.m.

Led by Griffin Health’s Spanish-speaking primary care physicians, this free program features trusted medical insight into the health concerns and risk factors for Hispanic individuals, and how to improve their overall well-being. There will be ample time for participants to ask the medical experts questions.

The Healthy U Lecture Series offers physician-led presentations and discussions to help individuals better understand how the human body functions and be empowered to manage their health and well-being. 

Griffin Health medical experts will provide in-depth information about the body’s systems to best explain health topics including diabetes prevention, cancer awareness, mental wellness, heart health, nutrition, and exercise for individuals who want to learn more about wellness and disease prevention.

Healthy U is held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Community Health Resource Center. 

The topics for each month are: October - Cancer Prevention and Genetic Testing; November – Diabetes Management and Prediabetes Prevention; and December - Healthy Aging.

To reserve your spot or for more information, call 203-732-7399 or register at www.griffinhealth.org/Healthy-U.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Health, Derby Elks to hold car booster seat safety clinic Sept. 15

DERBY - Griffin Health and Derby Lodge #571 will host a free child car booster seat safety clinic Sept. 15 from 3-5 p.m. at Griffin Health Community Outreach, 4 Mountain St.

Certified child passenger safety technicians will help parents, caregivers and children learn the importance of child booster car seats, how to properly install them and the appropriate positioning of a child in booster seats.

Families with children ages 5 to 8 years old, weighing at least 40 to 60 pounds that are in need of a booster can email ckellett@griffinhealth.org to apply for a free booster seat.

Appointments are not required, but encouraged to ensure a spot. To make an appointment for the clinic or for more information, contact Cathi Kellett at ckellett@griffinhealth.org.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, every 32 seconds, a child under the age of 13 in a passenger vehicle is involved in a crash. Many times, injuries and deaths can be prevented by proper use of car seats, boosters, and seat belts. 

For more information, visit NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Calypso-themed Griffin Gala slated Oct. 3 at Oakdale Theater in Wallingford

 The 2026 Griffin Health Gala offers an enchanting evening of Caribbean music, dance and cuisine on Oct. 3 from 6-10:30 p.m. at the Oakdale Theater, 95 S. Turnpike Road, Wallingford.

Entitled Calypso Nights, this unforgettable event will feature the rhythmic sounds of steel drums, striking tropical décor, and a menu inspired by bold island flavor, creating an immersive and memorable experience rooted in a shared commitment to supporting the health and well-being of our community.

Guests will be inspired to dance the night away as Therapi Band blends timeless hits with infectious island energy. 

There will also be live and silent auctions featuring an exciting selection of items and experiences, including private chef dining at home, VIP Live Nation music experiences around Connecticut, Calypso dance lessons, a Portland, Maine getaway, Caribbean travel, New York City Football Club suite tickets, designer handbags from Dooney & Bourke, spa and winery experiences, and much more.

Individual tickets are $225 and a table of 10 is $2,250. The Gala is championed by Calypso Crown Presenting Sponsor Haynes Group and Apple Rehab, Aquarion Water Co., Bankwell Judi Health, Carmody Torrance Sandak Hennessey LLP, Connecticut Hospital Association, Heidell, Pittoni, Meritain Health, Murphy & Bach, LLP, Ion Bank, Jefferson Radiology, Integrated Anesthesia Associates, Robinson & Cole, LLP, TeamHealth, TD Bank, The Masonic Charity Foundation of Connecticut, The Resource Group, and the Valley Community Foundation. 

More sponsorship opportunities are available at www.griffinhealth.org/gala.

Proceeds will support exceptional cancer care by bringing advanced radiation therapy technology to the Lower Naugatuck Valley community, expanding access to leading-edge treatment and ensuring cancer patients receive the care they need close-to-home.

Tickets can be purchased at www.griffinhealth.org/gala. 

For more information on tickets or sponsorship opportunities, contact Lisa Nista at 203-732-7384 or Lnista@griffinhealth.org.

Griffin Health presents multi-skilled technician with staff excellence award

DERBY - Griffin Health recently hosted its annual Nursing Support Staff Appreciation Celebration to recognize its more than 300 caregivers who make vital contributions as coordinators between patients and nurses and doctors, including its 2026 Caregiver Excellence Award winner, Multi-Skilled Technician Rachel Layseca.

The Caregiver Excellence Award is given to an exemplary Griffin Health employee whom others believe demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities, the highest level of standards and excellent patient care, and consistently exhibits caring, commitment, and compassion towards patients and coworkers.

A four-year Griffin caregiver in the hospital’s Emergency Department, Rachel was selected for the award for being a leader who sets a high standard for herself and inspires those around her.

“Rachel is the kind of teammate every nurse hopes to work with,” the nomination for Rachel states. “When Rachel is assigned as your technician, you know you will have an outstanding partner who anticipates patient needs, communicates effectively, and works seamlessly with the entire health care team. She consistently demonstrates initiative, reliability, and a positive attitude, even in the fast-paced and unpredictable environment of the Emergency Department.”

Griffin Health congratulates Heart of Caring Award winner

Griffin Health recently hosted its annual Nursing Support Staff Appreciation Celebration to recognize its more than 300 caregivers who make vital contributions as coordinators between patients and nurses and doctors, including its 2026 Heart of Caring Award winner, Multi-Skilled Technician Moraima “Mo” Medina.

The Caring Heart Award is given to an exemplary Griffin Health nursing support staff member whom others believe to be truly committed, compassionate, kind and exemplifies the Planetree person-centered care philosophy.

A recently hired caregiver in the Griffin Hospital inpatient units, Moraima was selected for the award for her consistent person-centered care and compassion for patients.

“It is not unusual for Mo to go to the gift shop to buy little gifts for her patients such as lip balm for dry lips or balloons for a birthday,” the nomination for Moraima stated. “Mo is known to go visit her patients when they are transferred to other units. Specifically, there was a patient transferred for hospice care. Mo made a point to go visit with the patient and the family.”

Griffin 5K walk/run to benefit Center for Cancer Care slated Oct. 24

DERBY - Save the date for the 18th Annual 5K Walk-Run to Benefit the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital set for Saturday, Oct. 24.

The 5k Walk/Run was started by the caregivers of the Cancer Center as a way to raise funds to purchase wigs for patients.

The first Walk/Run exceeded expectations drawing over 250 participants and raising more than $25,000, providing opportunity for additional financial support for patients as they undergo cancer treatment.

The 5K has drawn thousands of participants over the years and raised more than $900,000 to help support local cancer survivors in its 17-year history.

Participants can walk or run individually, form a team with their family, friends and co-workers, and collect pledges and payments. Awards will be presented to the top fundraising team and the top fundraising individual at the event.

Participants can also purchase a commemorative sign for $100 to honor or memorialize a loved one that will be displayed at The Center for Cancer Care.

Individuals and teams can register online at griffinhealth.org/5k.

For more information, contact Laura Howell at lhowell@griffinhealth.org or 203-732-1263.

Derby Elks, Griffin Health to host booster seat giveaway Sept. 15

 

Cardiologist joins Griffin Faculty Physicians in Derby

Griffin Faculty Physicians is pleased to welcome João Fontes, MD, MPH, an exceptionally skilled and experienced cardiologist, to its multi-specialty medical group.
Dr. Fontes joins Griffin Faculty Physicians Cardiology after leading the Lenox Hill Hospital Department of Cardiovascular Medicine in New York City as Director of Inpatient Cardiology Services and Director of Innovation and Technology. He also served as staff cardiologist at Montefiore Medical Center and was an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Zucker School of Medicine and Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

With an extensive background in caring for patients for a wide range of heart conditions using advanced diagnostic technologies, Dr. Fontes also specializes in compassionate, personalized support.
“I care for adults at all stages of heart health, whether it's prevention, breathing problems, valve disease, or managing things like a past heart attack,” Dr. Fontes said. “Today, we use leading-edge technology like AI, specialized blood tests, and advanced imaging to move beyond just treating heart disease. We are predicting it. We catch conditions earlier, and we treat them more precisely. That means our patients can live longer, more active lives.
“These innovations don't replace the need for human touch. My approach always starts with listening to your story. I want to get to know you, answer your questions, and help you feel more at ease. I believe health isn't just the absence of disease. It's about being happy, independent, and active.”
Dr. Fontes received his medical degrees at Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, and Harvard University School of Public Health.
He completed an internal medicine residency and fellowships in Cardiology and Heart Failure at Boston University School of Medicine. A prolific researcher, he has been published in 40 peer-reviewed articles. He is fluent in English, Portuguese and Spanish.

Dr. Fontes will also serve as Griffin Hospital Chair of Medicine.
Dr. Fontes is currently seeing patients at the Griffin Faculty Physicians Cardiology office at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., Floor 1, East Wing, Derby. For more information or to make an appointment, call 203-732-1257.

Griffin Faculty Practice provides patient-centered, personalized care with primary care locations in Ansonia, Naugatuck, Seymour, Shelton, Southbury and Oxford. In addition, the practice provides specialized care in allergy/immunology, urology, rheumatology, OB-GYN, cardiology, cardiac electrophysiology, gastroenterology, cardiothoracic surgery, breast surgery, general surgery, and endocrinology. 

For more information, visit https://gfp.griffinhealth.org.

This is a press release from Griffin Health. 

Reiki Level 1 Workshop slated at Griffin Hospital in Derby

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will host a Reiki Level 1 Workshop Sept. 15 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Reiki is a complementary healing method based on ancient healing practices that involves the conscious direction of healing energy through the practitioner’s hands. 

When channeled properly, Reiki relieves energy blockages to the body and restores balance, supporting healing on all levels. Reiki Master Nancy Corvigno will teach the basic concepts of Reiki, allowing ample time for hands-on practice.

The workshop cost for the public is $150, which includes completion certificate and Reiki book. Griffin Hospital employees and current volunteers can register at the rate of $25. Payment must be cash or check, and is due upon enrollment.

Workshop participants from the general public are required to become a Griffin Health volunteer, and are expected to give 100 hours of service prior to receiving their Reiki completion certificate.

Workshop space is limited, and preregistration is required by Sept. 8. To register, contact Wendy Farrington at 203-732-7434.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Healthy U at Griffin Hospital in Derby to discuss pulmonary wellness

DERBY - The Healthy U Lecture Series at the Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., will provide an in-depth discussion about healthy breathing and pulmonary wellness Aug. 19 at 6 p.m.

Led by Griffin Health physicians and experts in pulmonology and sleep wellness, this free program features trusted medical insight into lung and respiratory well-being, and sleep disorders caused by poor breathing such as sleep apnea. 

Attendees will also learn about Griffin Health resources available to help promote an improved wellness and sample healthy food. There will be ample time for participants to ask the medical experts questions.

The Healthy U Lecture Series offers physician-led presentations and discussions to help individuals better understand how the human body functions and be empowered to manage their health and well-being. Griffin Health medical experts will provide in-depth information about the body’s systems to best explain health topics including diabetes prevention, cancer awareness, mental wellness, heart health, nutrition, and exercise for individuals who want to learn more about wellness and disease prevention.

Healthy U is held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Community Health Resource Center. 

The topics for each month are: September – Hispanic Health Awareness; October - Cancer Prevention and Genetic Testing; November – Diabetes Management and Prediabetes Prevention; and December - Healthy Aging.

To reserve your spot or for more information, call 203-732-7399 or register at www.griffinhealth.org/Healthy-U.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Health, Agency on Aging to host stroke education programs

Griffin Health and the Agency on Aging of South-Central Connecticut will host health education programs for Valley seniors about stroke awareness this September.

Griffin Health Stroke Coordinator Morgan D’Amore, RN, SCRN, will lead “Are You Stroke Aware?”, a free presentation on the importance of brain health, the different types of strokes, signs and symptoms, and risk factors. Griffin Health caregivers will also offer free blood pressure screenings and consultation. 

The presentations are scheduled for Sept. 3 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Ansonia Senior Center, Sept. 10 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Oxford Senior Center, Sept. 14 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Seymour Senior Center, Sept. 23 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Shelton Senior Center, and Sept. 24 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Derby Neck Library.

These offerings are part of the AgeWell program, which is co-sponsored by Griffin Health and the Agency on Aging of South-Central Connecticut to increase access to care and prevent disease in the Valley senior community through a series of health screenings and healthy living education sessions each month. Periodically, this program provides nutritiously balanced and delicious foods for attendees.

Registration is required to attend the AgeWell events. 

To sign up, contact the location (Ansonia Senior Center: 203-736-5933; Derby Neck Library: 203-734-1492; Oxford Senior Center: 203-881-5231; Seymour Senior Center: 203- 888-0406 ext. 1; and Shelton Senior Center: 203-924-9324).

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Health seeks singers to join holiday performance

SEYMOUR - Griffin Health is looking for singers of all skill levels to lend their voices and help spread holiday cheer throughout the Naugatuck Valley with its Valley Soul Community Choir.

Under the direction of Angela Clemmons, a professional singer for more than 40 years and director of the acclaimed “Shoreline Soul” performances in Madison, participants in the community choir will have six, two-hour workshops, culminating in a hand-clapping, foot-stomping, “this couldn't possibly be the Naugatuck Valley” concert of traditional and contemporary gospel and ‘gospelized’ holiday songs on Dec. 3 at Church of The Good Shepherd, 135 Mountain Road.

In addition to providing an inspiring and uplifting performance, the Valley Soul choir aims to bring together individuals from churches and organizations throughout the area to help build and strengthen partnerships that will improve the health of the region.

“No one needs to know how to read music. All songs are taught by ear and everyone is given vocal guide tracks,” Clemmons said. “Our weekly sessions are upbeat, fun and very user-friendly - it’s amazing how much the choir learns and how confident they become in six short weeks, particularly when many have never sung gospel before!”

The training workshops will be Wednesdays Sept. 23 and 30, Oct. 7 and 21, and Nov. 4 and 18 from 6:45-8:45 p.m. at Church of The Good Shepherd. Although the workshop is primarily for adults, youth who are able to follow a lyric sheet are welcome to participate.

The suggested registration donation to join the choir is $25. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. 

Sign up online at griffinhealth.org/valley-soul. For more information, contact Lisa Nista at 203-732-7384 or Lnista@griffinhealth.org.

Valley Soul is sponsored by the President’s Fund at Griffin Hospital as a thank you to Griffin’s sponsors and the community, and as a celebration of Griffin’s family of employees, medical staff, volunteers, corporators, and trustees for their dedication, compassion and expertise.

About Angela Clemmons

Valley Soul Director Angela Clemmons has been a professional singer for over 40 years.  

As a background singer, she worked with Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Celine Dion, Steely Dan, Cyndi Lauper, Elton John, among many others. 

Her voice could be heard on TV and radio jingles for Burger King, Canada Dry Ginger Ale, Coke, KFC, Slim Fast and many more. She did two albums for CBS Records, which included the #4 disco hit “Give Me Just a Little More Time”. Angela spent 2013 touring with the Rascals (“It’s a Beautiful Morning,” “Groovin’”) as part of the “Rascals: Once Upon a Dream” show, performing on Broadway and theaters all over the US and Canada. TV appearances include The View, The Tony Awards, Saturday Night Live and others. Angela, mother of two, resides in Westbrook with her husband.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.