Director of the Division of Deaf Services, Roger Williams, has been appointed to the International Initiative for Mental Health Leadership (IIMHL). Nominated by Admiral Eric Broderick, D.D.S., M.P.H., Acting Administrator of The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Williams will be one of two representatives from the United States to serve on the Network on Mental Health and Deafness.

“The mental health needs of the Deaf community have long been overlooked. I am pleased to see that this community is getting the attention it deserves and that South Carolina’s efforts in this area are being recognized,” said Williams.

Comprising representatives from Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, and the United States, the IIMHL aims to provide a worldwide infrastructure to identify and exchange information about effective leadership, management, and operational practices in the delivery of mental health services and promotes the development of best practices via collaboration and innovation among mental health leaders.

During a July 2008 meeting of the IIMHL, leaders recognized the need to build a network of experts in the area of mental health services for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Delegates will provide in-depth information on clinical and cultural aspects of said services, in addition to current issues and developments in IIMHL member countries.

“Roger's appointment to this international body is indicative of the high esteem to which he is held by SAMSHA and the deaf provider community. Under his leadership, DMH has the pre-eminent deaf services program in the United States,” said Geoff Mason, deputy director of Community Mental Health Services. “Now, as one of two US representatives to this international initiative, he will be in a position to have a world-wide impact on the lives of those who are deaf and who need mental health services."