Deke Beveridge is the new chief executive officer at Empowerment Systems Inc., 2066 W. Apache Trail No.  116 in Apache Junction.

He began officially in July, taking over from his father, Jack Beveridge, according to a release.

"Jack had been CEO since founding the organization as the Pinal-Gila Behavioral Health Association back in 1990. In this transition, Jack is moving on to become the president and chairman of the board of directors, also effective July 2019," according to the release.

Deke brings a wealth of knowledge in health education as a former grade-school physical education/health teacher, coach and athletic director, according to the release.

He has master of education degrees from Azusa Pacific University and Arizona State University. He is also a certified health education specialist, has instructor certifications in youth and adult mental health first aid, and is trained to teach chronic disease self-management education courses.

"Deke has been taking over the day-to-day operations while making changes to the organization to ensure another successful 30 years of operations. Knowing that both Beveridges are at the helm in different capacities helps to ensure that both the institutional history and forward momentum are available as we embark on a new decade," the release states.

Jack Beveridge reorganized PGBHA into Empowerment Systems in 2006, ensuring a vibrant future ahead with a mission statement of “empowering people to improve lives” while embracing the concept of multi-dimensional wellness, the release states.

Over the years, Empowerment Systems has operated programs such as the Greater Valley Area Health Education Center, Arizona Living Well Institute, AZ Coalition for Military Families, PACE+ Electronic Health Record, Community Outreach Resource Connection and the Empowerment For Life Foundation.

Go to empowermentsystems.org.