Mental Health Symposium sparks meaningful community conversation

Nov. 3, 2026

SARANAC LAKE, NY — More than 90 people gathered at North Country Community College's Saranac Lake campus on Oct. 30 for a Mental Health Symposium that brought together community members, healthcare providers, nonprofit and agency representatives, students, faculty and staff for an important conversation about mental health in the North Country.

A group of people sit at a table in front of an audience, one holding a microphone and speaking. The symposium featured a panel of local mental and behavioral health professionals who shared their perspectives on the unique challenges facing rural communities, the resources available to help, and opportunities to strengthen services and support across the region.

Panelists included Dr. Stephen Samuels of Adirondack Health; Suzanne Lavigne, director of Community Services for Franklin County; Deceil Moore, Director of Development and Community Wellness at Community Connections of Franklin County; and Terri Morse, director of Essex County Mental Health. Kathleen Dowd-Maloney, chair of NCCC's Human Services Department, moderated the discussion.

The panelists' remarks were followed by a lively question-and-answer session, with audience members engaging directly with the experts, sharing perspectives and exploring ways to address barriers to care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

The strong turnout and enthusiastic participation underscored the importance of creating opportunities for open dialogue about mental health and connecting community members with the people and organizations working to address these challenges.

"Such events reinforce the value of community colleges, not only in preparing our students for careers and beyond, but also in bringing our community together where such discussions can take place," said NCCC President Joe Keegan. "Thank you to our team who helped organize the symposium and to everyone who encouraged students and community members to attend."

Organizers hope the symposium will serve as a starting point for continued conversations, stronger community connections and greater awareness of the mental health resources available across Franklin and Essex counties.