West NY News

BATAVIA, NY - Sue Gagne, a respected mental health professional and Genesee County resident, was honored Monday by Senator George Borrello as a 2024 New York State Senate “Woman of Distinction.” The ceremony took place at the City Church Generation Center with family, friends, and colleagues in attendance.

Local officials and past and present colleagues from the mental health field gathered to recognize Gagne for her dedication and achievements. Pastor Ryan Macdonald of The City Church opened the event by welcoming guests and giving the invocation.

Sen. George Borrello highlighted Gagne's more than two decades of service to those struggling with mental health and substance abuse challenges. “Sue Gagne made a conscious decision to use her talents and dedication to help the most vulnerable individuals in our community. Since then, she has devoted herself to making critically needed services more widely available and ending the stigmas that hold back so many hurting people from seeking the help they need,” said Sen. Borrello. “Her efforts have literally been lifesaving for many.”

Gagne’s journey into the mental health field began when she sought help for a family member. She started at the Mental Health Association of Genesee and Orleans Counties in a part-time support position before rising to become executive director during her 16-year tenure. Among her achievements was launching Visions of Hope Recovery Center, a peer-driven program aimed at helping individuals with mental health challenges reach their full potential.

As Dual Recovery Coordinator for Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, she worked to bridge substance use disorder communities with mental health services. She also played a key role in founding GCASA’s (now UConnectCare) Recovery Station.

In 2019, Gagne pursued her goal of becoming a registered nurse by enrolling in Genesee County Community College, graduating in 2023. Currently, she serves as Outreach and Engagement R.N. for UConnectCare and is contracted through the Genesee County Mental Health Department as Suicide Prevention Coordinator.

Lynda Battaglia, director of the Genesee Co. Office of Mental Health & Community Services praised Gagne: “There are many words that I can think of... But I think the one word that encompasses all of Sue is ‘extraordinary.’”

Peggy Marone, director of Leadership Genesee who nominated Gagne for the award added: “Sue’s advocacy is unparalleled because she doesn’t seek attention for her work; she seeks recovery and acceptance for everyone who has suffered from substance abuse and mental illness.”

Gagne is active in various professional organizations including serving on the state board of NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness), co-chairing committees on opioid task forces, representing WNY Regional Planning Consortiums among other roles within her church community.

Her efforts have earned recognition from several organizations including receiving YWCA’s “2024 Women of Inspiration” award, GCC Nursing Leadership Award in 2023, and Kiwanis Criminal Justice Award in 2015.

“Sue Gagne has built a life centered around helping people in need,” concluded Sen. Borrello. “Although she has never sought recognition or accolades...she is truly a role model who can inspire others.”