Press Release

Mental Health Association President & CEO Patricia Woods Announces Retirement

Mental Health Association CEO Patricia Woods retiring after leading agency for 34 years

Rochester, NY –Mental Health Association President and CEO Patricia Woods announced this morning that she will retire in early 2018. Patricia Woods has lead the non-profit mental health agency for over 34 years.

“I’m really happy with what I’ve been able to build at the Mental Health Association these last three and a half decades.” says Patricia Woods. “The Mental Health Association has become a leader in community mental health care that empowers people and focuses on mental wellness.”

MHA Board Chair Julie Jordan says Patricia Woods has left an incredible legacy in the mental health community. “From the bottom of our hearts, we thank Pat for her commitment, passion, empathy, and vision. She has provided the Mental Health Association with so much growth and success these past 34 years.” Julie said. “She will be missed by her staff, Board members, and community partners alike.”

The Mental Health Association Board plans to have a new President and CEO in place by early 2018. Patricia Woods will remain at the non-profit organization during the transition process.

Patricia Woods has been a leader in the recovery driven mental health movement for decades. She played a critical role in building a non-clinical support network for people living with mental illnesses in the Rochester area. Patricia was a pioneer for self-help, peer support, and recovery for individuals facing serious mental health challenges. She recognized the importance of focusing on mental wellness instead of dwelling on mental illness.

Patricia Woods took her vision to the Mental Health Association in the mid-1980s where her work continues to have a lasting impact on mental health services in Rochester. When Patricia Woods became CEO of the Mental Health Association, it was a small agency with a budget of only $150,000 and four staff members. Patricia’s efforts grew the Mental Health Association into a 2.3 million dollar agency that now offers a variety of mental wellness support services in Monroe, Livingston, Wyoming, and Ontario Counties, serving thousands of people each year.

About The Mental Health Association

The Mental Health Association of Rochester/Monroe County, Inc. has been promoting mental wellness since 1932 through a spectrum of culturally competent programs and services.  MHA has a presence in Monroe, Livingston, and Ontario counties. Learn more about its programs and services at www.mharochester.org.

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