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CLMHD Celebrates 50 Years of Partnership, Advocacy, and Service to New York Communities

The NYS Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors Celebrates 50 Years of Partnership, Advocacy, and Service to New York Communities

Invitation-only celebration on May 12 honors five decades of representation
on behalf of the county Directors of Community Services

ALBANY, NY — The New York State Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors (“the Conference”) is proud to celebrate a milestone 50 years of service with an evening of education and networking on May 12, 2026. This special event will bring together leaders from across the state to honor five decades of partnership, advocacy, and commitment to our members and their role in the community.

Founded in 1976, the Conference was born from a simple but powerful idea: that county leaders in the mental hygiene sector could accomplish more by speaking with one voice. What started as a small group of Directors of Community Services (DCSs) collectively testifying at a Legislative hearing — the first time local governments in the field had done so — grew into a statewide organization representing all 57 county mental hygiene departments and the City of New York. Over five decades, as the behavioral health landscape has been transformed again and again, the Conference and its members have been there every step of the way.

“Every county in New York State is different, but the need for strong local behavioral health leadership is universal. The Directors of Community Services know their communities, they know what’s needed, and for 50 years this Conference has made sure that knowledge shapes policy. At the end of the day, that’s what this work comes down to — making sure that every New Yorker who needs quality, accessible, person-centered care can get it, no matter where they live.” said Laura Kelemen, LCSW-R, Chair of the NYS Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors and Director of Community Services in Niagara County.

The DCSs are responsible for overseeing their county’s mental health, substance use, and intellectual/developmental disability services. Together, they represent every corner of the state, and the Conference serves as their collective voice in shaping the policies and systems that support their work.

“Our mission to promote hope, recovery, and resilience would be unachievable without our long-standing and treasured partnership with the New York State Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors and its members. Our half-century-long relationship has positively impacted countless lives across our state and established New York as a national leader in mental health care. Our work together serves as an enduring example of how local and state government can align to better support the people we serve. In the last several years, this partnership has enabled us to implement Governor Kathy Hochul’s ambitious vision for a stronger, modern, and more responsive mental health care system. Together, we have established and expanded local programs, ensuring individuals living with mental illness can access community-based treatment while working towards their recovery. We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone anniversary and look forward to the next 50 years.” said Dr. Ann Sullivan, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Mental Health.

“The NYS Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors has made a significant positive impact across New York State over the last five decades, advocating for important behavioral health services and ensuring they are available in every community across the state. This work has saved thousands of lives. This is a fantastic milestone, and I look forward to continued collaboration with the Conference as we work together to improve the system of care here in New York.” said Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports.

“For 50 years, the NYS Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors has served as a leader in community-based behavioral health best practices for New Yorkers statewide. This group has been an essential partner in advancing policy and programming at the county level that ensures the needs and goals of people with developmental disabilities are represented in their communities. Wishing the Conference a well-honored congratulations on half a century of representation and advocacy.” said Willow Baer, Commissioner of the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities.

“At a time when demand for services continues to grow, our members are working tirelessly to meet unprecedented pressures and advocate for sustainable solutions. This milestone reflects the strength and resilience of Directors of Community Services, who continue to lead through complexity and advance meaningful outcomes. As we look ahead, we remain committed to supporting their vital role in managing services across systems at the local level, and in shaping policies that improve outcomes for the individuals and families they serve.” said Courtney David, Executive Director of the Conference.

The May 12 celebration is a tribute to the Directors of Community Services who, for half a century, have led the planning and delivery of local mental hygiene services across every corner of New York State — and to the shared belief that every community deserves strong, compassionate leadership in behavioral health.