Third Forum in Statewide Series Builds on Rockefeller Institute Research to Focus on Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Options

Albany, NY — The Rockefeller Institute of Government is partnering with Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone for the third in the Institute’s ongoing, statewide series of forums focusing on evidence-driven strategies to address New York’s worsening opioid epidemic. The first two forums were held in Albany and Syracuse.

The “Stories from Suffolk” forum, inspired by the Institute’s Stories from Sullivan series examining the opioid crisis in Sullivan County, will gather leading experts in substance use and opioids to discuss how to combat the crisis on February 6, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m at the Kimisis Tis Theotokou Church in Southampton.

“In more than a year of studying New York’s opioid epidemic, with more than 100 interviews, data collection and analysis, our researchers have found that to move the dial and tackle this crisis, policymakers must listen to the people on its frontlines,” said Rockefeller Institute President Jim Malatras. “I commend County Executive Bellone for steadfast leadership and convening this forum to push the conversation forward on Long Island and identify evidence-driven solutions to this growing crisis.”

“County governments are the laboratories for developing smart public policy to combat the opioid crisis in New York,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “This forum will bring together leading experts in the field to share their experiences and discuss next steps in addressing this epidemic.”

The forum’s two panels will feature medical providers, academic scholars, community advocates, faith leaders, state officials, local law enforcement, and criminal justice advocates. The keynote address will be delivered by Suffolk County District Attorney Timothy D. Sini, who has been a leader on developing innovative strategies and partnerships among law enforcement agencies across the country. Rockefeller Institute President Jim Malatras will provide opening remarks.

Participating moderators and panelists include:

Dr. Jim Malatras – President, Rockefeller Institute of Government
Patricia Strach – Director for Policy and Research, Rockefeller Institute of Government
Hon. Timothy D. Sini – Suffolk County District Attorney
Dr. Leslie Marino – Columbia University
Stuart Cameron – Chief of Department, Suffolk County Police Department
Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds – CEO, Family and Children’s Association
Arlene González-Sánchez – Commissioner, NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
John Venza – Vice President of Residential Services, Outreach
Anthony Ferrandino – Counselor, Northport-East Northport Community Drug and Alcohol Task Force

For more information, contact the Rockefeller Institute at (518) 445-4150.