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Recognizing Sandra “Sandy” Stephenson for a Lifetime of Distinguished Service in Honor of Women’s History Month & National Social Work Month
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WHEREAS, the month of March is recognized nationally as both Women’s History Month and National Social Work Month, a time to honor the extraordinary contributions women and social workers have made in shaping our communities and institutions; and,
WHEREAS, Sandra “Sandy” Stephenson has devoted more than four decades to advancing behavioral healthcare, strengthening community-based services, and improving the lives of Ohioans through her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to compassionate care; and,
WHEREAS, throughout her career, Ms. Stephenson has helped advance innovative models of care, including the integration of primary and behavioral health services; and,
WHEREAS, in 2007, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland appointed Ms. Stephenson to serve as Director of the Ohio Department of Mental Health, where she worked to strengthen Ohio’s public behavioral health system to expand access to mental health support; and,
WHEREAS, Ms. Stephenson has helped drive lasting system change locally to support Columbus’s most vulnerable neighbors, including helping establish CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence; and,
WHEREAS, her leadership has been recognized with numerous honors, including induction into The Ohio State University College of Social Work Alumni Hall of Fame, the NASW Ohio Chapter Lifetime Achievement Award, the Bob Lazarus “Unsung Hero” Award; and,
WHEREAS, through her decades of service, leadership, and mentorship, Ms. Stephenson has inspired and paved the way for future cohorts of social workers to serve not only as clinicians and advocates, but also as leaders who shape public policy and transform the systems that care for our communities; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby recognize Sandra “Sandy” Stephenson for her lifetime of distinguished service to the people of Columbus and the State of Ohio and celebrates her many contributions in honor of Women’s History Month and National Social Work Month.