Immediate Release

Wednesday, January 9, 2008 
For Information Contact

798-5800

Picente Forms Regional Committee To Help Fill Mental Health Commissioner Vacancy

            Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr., today announced that he has formed a three-member search committee to help him select a new Oneida County Commissioner of Mental Health, replacing Ken Abramczyk, who retired last year.

            “ Oneida County ’s Commissioner of Mental Health has historically played a critical role in coordinating the community’s safety net to help areas residents who are dealing with a wide range of issues, from substance abuse to homelessness, that often accompany the need for mental health treatment,” Picente said. “Oneida County is looking for an individual who has compassion for those in need, outstanding organizational and teamwork skills to help direct and enhance our existing partnerships, and a vision for collaboration that can improve services while also improving our community.”

            Picente said the three members of the search committee are:

  • Louis Tehan – Executive Director of United Cerebral Palsy
  • Donna Vitagliano – Executive Director of  Insight House
  • Dr. Anandavalli Menon - Medical Director for  Herkimer County Mental Health Clinic

             “All of these individuals have outstanding professional qualifications, a history of efforts dealing with the issues the new commissioner will face, strong community service commitment and a thorough understanding of the needs of our region,” Picente said. “Their expertise and advice can help me select the person who will lead our community support network into its next phase.”

            Picente said the job description is available on line at: www.ocgov.net by following the links for Job Specifications with the Department of Personnel.

            Picente said interested applicants who meet the minimum qualifications established by the state should send a resume, references and a letter of interest outlining how they believe the Oneida County Department of Mental Health can address the needs of the community. Applicants should send their information to: Mental Health Commissioner Search Committee, Oneida County Executive’s Office, Oneida County Office Building , 800 Park Ave. , Utica , NY 13501 .

            Picente said applicants should respond by Jan. 31st. The position is being advertised in the local media. Applicants who have read the job description and have questions concerning the position should contact the County Executive ’s Office.

            “The human services field has always been a leader in offering opportunities to a diverse range of individuals from a wide array of backgrounds,” Picente said. “The search process will give us the opportunity to review applications from a diverse range of applicants and select the person who can best lead the Department into a new era.”