STATESBORO, Ga., - Cherie Tolley, Willingway’s interim CEO, was named as the substance abuse treatment center’s permanent leader in an announcement by facility owner Summit BHC of Franklin, Tenn.  

Cherie Tolley took on the interim position in early January, bringing 39 years of experience in behavioral health. She had previously worked as a consultant to Willingway in 2016. The promotion places her at the helm of Willingway’s broad range of addiction treatment programs and around 120 personnel.   

Tolley has extensive healthcare leadership and operational expertise. She has served in both clinical and administrative roles, including facility CEO positions with Palmetto Behavioral Health System and Palmetto Pee Dee Behavioral Health Care.

Summit BHC’s COO, Jeff Barnett, said in the announcement that Tolley is a great fit for Willingway.

“Her leadership, discipline and enthusiasm have brought a new sense of momentum and stability to Willingway,” Barnett said. 

Tolley will speak at an open round table event on Sunday, April 23 at Willingway's 41st annual alumni Homecoming weekend. The event is open to the public. 

Since 1971, Willingway has helped more than 20,000 patients recover from alcohol and drug dependency. Willingway’s nationally recognized addiction treatment programs are tailored to the unique needs of each individual patient. The care continuum includes individual assessments, medical detoxification, inpatient residential treatment, extended residential treatment, sober living residences, outpatient and intensive outpatient programs, individual and family counseling, continuing care, and alumni programs.