UA and ADM Board forge unprecedented partnership to address workforce needs

The University of Akron is proud to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with the County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health (ADM) Board, marking a significant leap forward in addressing critical community needs. This innovative aims to enhance the workforce pipeline in the field of social work, fostering a direct and positive impact on behavioral health services in Summit County.

As part of this initiative, a new position has been established, fully funded by the ADM Board, to serve as a liaison between the University of Akron's School of Social Work and Family Sciences and community agencies. The primary focus of this role is to recruit students into social work programs and facilitate their placement within partner agencies, creating a dynamic synergy between academia and real-world application.

Sylvester Huston III, the newly appointed behavioral health campus coordinator, said, "I am excited to be part of this unique initiative that not only supports the academic journey of students but also directly addresses the pressing needs in our community. By filling the workforce pipeline with passionate and dedicated individuals, we can make a meaningful impact on the mental health and well-being of Summit County residents."

The ADM Board's commitment to fully fund this position underscores its dedication to strengthening the social services infrastructure in the region. Aimee Wade, executive director of the ADM board, shared her gratitude for the partnership, stating, "We are excited for the opportunity to collaborate with the University of Akron on this forward-thinking initiative. By combining our resources and expertise, we can create a more comprehensive and effective response to the behavioral health workforce challenges facing our community."

This partnership reflects The University of Akron's commitment to community engagement and the ADM Board's proactive approach to addressing the complex issues related to behavioral health. Together, they are setting a precedent for collaborative efforts between academic institutions and community organizations to make a lasting impact on the well-being of Summit County residents.

Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-687-9269, cboyd@uakron.edu