Sue Gagne
Honoree Profile
Sue Gagne, RN has dedicated over two decades of her life to making a profound impact on individuals facing mental health challenges. Her journey began when she sought help for a struggling family member, propelling her into a mission she felt compelled to pursue.
Initiating her career at the Mental Health Association of Genesee & Orleans Counties in a part-time role, Ms. Gagne’s dedication and passion led her to ascend to the position of Executive Director. Subsequently, she assumed the crucial role of Dual Recovery Coordinator for Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, where she worked to bridge the substance use disorder and mental health communities.
In 2019, Ms. Gagne played a pivotal role in the startup and launch of the Uconnect Care (formerly GCASA) Recovery Center in Genesee County. During this period, she also fulfilled a longstanding aspiration of becoming a registered nurse, graduating from Genesee County Community College in 2023.
Currently serving as the Assistant Director of Adult Services at the Wyoming County Mental Health Department, Ms. Gagne focuses on individuals with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI), ensuring they receive the necessary support. Additionally, she serves as the Suicide Prevention Coordinator for the Genesee County Mental Health Department, leading diverse suicide prevention initiatives.
Ms. Gagne attributes her growth and transformative professional journey to her participation in Leadership Genesee, a year-long citizenship education and leadership development program. She also credits her faith as key in helping her to continue her work with those who are often marginalized.
Ms. Gagne is very active in professional organizations and community programs, with roles that include serving on the State Board of the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), sharing the family perspective at Crisis Intervention Training for local law enforcement, and serving as a Co-Chair of the Family, Loved Ones & Allies subcommittee of the region’s opioid task force.
She and her husband, Neil, reside in Stafford, New York and have two adult children.