DR. CHRISTOPHER D. LONG, Ed.D.

An experienced, dynamic,  and committed healthcare leader, Dr. Christopher Long, is the Co-Chief Executive Officer/ President of Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE), a premier not-for-profit innovator that supports individuals of all abilities with community living opportunities, employment, day services, clinical, substance use disorders, and children services. Dr. Long has had an expansive career with over 30 years’ experience, including 15 years of strategic organizational development experience within the health and human service industry. Dr. Long joined FREE, Inc. in 2009 as the Associate Executive Director and, in that time, in partnership with co-leader Robert S. Budd, he has broadened the scope of the organization to more than double in size, leading FREE to become one of the largest not-for-profits on Long Island. During his tenure, in collaboration with Mr. Budd, Dr. Long significantly expanded FREE’s array of services, created thousands of jobs for people with disabilities, successfully steered the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic, and helped build FREE into one of the most diverse service providers with a strategic vision focused on creative excellence, technological innovation, and growth.

Prior to joining FREE, Inc., Dr. Long held senior executive leadership positions where he oversaw  day-to-day operations for large human service organizations. Dr. Long has a passion for education and vast experience in higher education, serving as an Adjunct Professor at St. Joseph’s University, Stony Brook University, and Farmingdale State College. Additionally, Dr. Long has been featured as an expert commentator on local and regional news outlets regarding  various topics of public health.

Dr. Long is the winner of the prestigious Zella Bronfman Butler Award for outstanding contributions in the field of special education/human services. He received Long Island Business News’ Executive Circle Award for his leadership skills, vision, and commitment to community service and diversity. Dr. Long is dedicated to mentoring youth, coaching future leaders, and has implemented many programs to help them perform academically, socially, and professionally to reach their full potential. As an author, Dr. Long published the inspiring book, “Swimming in a Pool of Peanut Butter,” written from the perspective of children with ADHD. Dr. Long’s second book, “Stop the Bounce,” portrays the experiences of foster children who are hoping to one day find their forever family.

As a life-long learner, Dr. Long holds a doctorate degree in education, a Master’s of Arts in Special Education, Master’s of Education in Educational Leadership, a Master’s of Arts in English, and a Masters of Science in Forensic Criminology. Dr. Long is also a Certified Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counselor, Certified New York State Special Education Teacher, holds a certification as a New York State School Building Leader, and has a graduate certificate in Forensic Psychology.