New York State is honoring Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health Commissioner Michael Orth with the 2024 ‘What’s Great in our State’ Lifetime Achievement Award, which is awarded annually to recognize professionals and volunteers who have shown a lifetime commitment to strengthening the mental health. Orth was presented the award Tuesday during the event in Albany and celebrated for his decades-long commitment to improving children’s mental health throughout the Westchester County.

“Michael Orth shows us ‘What’s Great in Our State’ through a career of collaboration and innovation,” state Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said. “His work has transformed the landscape of mental health services and his dedication has proven invaluable for youth and families in New York State, which is why this award is fitting. We thank him for his indomitable spirit and commitment to children’s mental health.”

Orth’s three-decade long career at the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health is a testament to his unwavering dedication and innovative spirit. Over that time, he has spearheaded initiatives such as the county’s System of Care expansion, and propelled this team to national acclaim, earning the prestigious designation as one of only three team learning centers nationally.

Through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches, Orth fosters collaboration, ensuring that children and families receive the comprehensive support they deserve. His leadership extends to the role he serves on the New York State Behavioral Health Services Advisory Council, which presented him with the esteemed Lew Opler Memorial Award from NAMI-NYS, underscoring his commitment to uplifting mental health initiatives.

“In my 30 years with the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health, I have had the privilege to partner with federal departments, state agencies, Conference of Local Mental Hygiene Directors, and my colleagues in Westchester County to promote a system of care philosophy of family-driven, youth-guided, community-based, and culturally responsive services,” Orth said. “Through our shared system of care efforts, I am confident we have improved outcomes for many children and families throughout the great state of New York. I would like to acknowledge and express my gratitude to those who have put their trust in me, in particular the many families who I have met over my career who have shared their experiences, engaged in wraparound services, and continue to inspire me do the mission-driven work we are all part of.”

Established in 2010, ‘What’s Great in Our State’ recognizes individuals and programs that are successfully advancing the cause of children’s mental health in New York State and is celebrated annually during Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. The day-long conference in Albany features a ceremony recognizing honorees, in-person and virtual workshops, and an art show featuring artwork created by children receiving services from New York State’s mental health system.

The event is sponsored by the state Office of Mental Health, Department of Health, Department of Education, Office of Children and Family Services and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports. In addition, several children’s mental health advocacy organizations sponsor the event, including the Council on Children and Families, the Early Care & Learning Council, Families Together in New York State, Inc., Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc., National Alliance on Mental Illness - New York State, New York State Network for Youth Success, Prevent Child Abuse New York, and the Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc.