Shriners Children’s New England Announces Thomas Coppens, M.D., as Board of Governors Chairman

Thomas B. Coppens, M.D., of Hartford, New York, has been elected chairman of the Board of Governors for Shriners Children's New England. Dr. Coppens has been a board member since 2022, joining the executive committee in 2024 as vice chairman.

Dr. Coppens joined the Oriental Shriners soon after becoming a Mason in 2019. However, his first introduction to the fraternity and the Shriners Children's healthcare system came much earlier. "Shriners Children's first touched my life when I brought my son to Shriners Children's New England for clubfoot treatment in 1993," he said. "Since then, I have referred my own patients to Shriners Children's. Nothing touches my heart more than meeting a child and their family who have had their lives changed by the amazing care at Shriners Children's."

A graduate of Albany Medical School, Dr. Coppens completed his residency in family practice at St. Joseph's Hospital in Liverpool, New York. He is a senior member of Irongate Family Practice in Glens Falls, New York, a group of 10 physicians and 20 advanced practice providers. Dr. Coppens is the president of Irongate Center, which owns and operates the facility.

It was through his practice that Dr. Coppens learned about the path to becoming a Shriner. "I walked into an exam room, and my patient asked me to support the Shriners," he said. "I had an application to the Masons in my pocket before that checkup was finished." First joining the fraternity to give back, Dr. Coppens is grateful for the relationships he has gained along the way. "I offered my services, hoping my background as a family physician would benefit the organization. The social opportunities and support found within the fraternity are tremendous, as we help children and each other."

Dr. Coppens enjoys being a grandparent with his wife, Elizabeth, and takes pleasure in many outdoor activities near their rural New York home. Two events he looks forward to every year are the Polar Plunge in Lake George on New Year's Day and the Adirondack Balloon Festival. The Oriental Shriners' participation in both community events supports Shriners Children's New England.

As Board of Governors chairman, Dr. Coppens looks forward to supporting efforts to expand Shriners Children's New England services in New England, New York and beyond. "I expect to see Shriners Children's New England continue its phenomenal growth, reaching more children in more places with the best care available anywhere."