Black History Month is a wonderful time to remember to celebrate the contributions of African American’s each and every day, and take time recognize individuals in our own communities who strive to ensure that all voices are heard. Especially now, as we focus on the hard work of dismantling systemic racism, we can look to and learn from those who have helped paved the way.

One of those individuals is our very own Dr. Kevin Dixon, who retired as ADAMH vice president for community and cultural engagement at the end of January after 34 years of service with the Board. Dr. Dixon has dedicated his career to building trusted relationships within underserved communities and developing innovative programs to help address unmet behavioral health needs.

His accomplishments are many and include the launching of the Consumer and Family Advisory Council, establishing mental health first aid training opportunities in Franklin County, facilitating prevention services for the county’s public school districts, and most recently developing the Black Community Ambassadors Support Program.

Dr. Dixon has long recognized the unique position faith leaders have as trusted advisors in the community. He built a strong network of faith leaders from a wide cross section of institutions and developed the annual Faith Symposiums focusing on mental health, addition recovery and self-care. He also reached out to New Americans, building bridges to address behavioral health care needs for local immigrant communities.
 
As a newer CEO, I am grateful for this past year of working with and learning from Dr. Dixon. On behalf of the entire ADAMH team, we wish him well in retirement – and we take comfort in knowing that he is only a phone call away!

For those of you who were unable to join us for Dr. Dixon’s virtual retirement ceremony, you can learn more about some of his notable accomplishments and watch a short tribute to Dr. Dixon here.