CICU Hosts Panel on Expanding Access to Mental Health Careers at SOMOS Conference 2025
On Friday, April 5, the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities (CICU) hosted a timely and thought-provoking panel at the SOMOS Conference 2025 in Albany. The discussion, titled “Expanding Access to a Skilled Mental Health Workforce: Strategies for Strengthening Communities Through Capacity Building, Mutual Aid, and Peer Support Interventions,” brought together leaders in mental health, higher education, and student advocacy to explore innovative solutions to one of New York’s most pressing workforce challenges.
Assemblymember Manny De Los Santos opened the session with welcoming remarks, highlighting the importance of equitable access to mental health education and services. Assemblymember Gabriella Romero served as moderator, guiding the conversation with thoughtful and insightful questions on workforce development, educational access, and systemic reform.
Panelists included:
- Luisa Lopez, MSW, Executive Director, Latino Social Work Coalition & Scholarship Fund, Inc.
- Kimberly Moore, PhD, LCSW, MA, MAC, CASAC, ADS, Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of Care Café, Yeshiva University
- Janice Rodriguez, Founder and CEO, Drip Sweat
- Edwardo Rodriguez, PhD, LMHC, PCC, Founder and Co-Executive Director, New Fronteras Counseling, Psychotherapy, & Behavioral Consulting Services
- Jasmin Rodriguez Martinez, Student, Russell Sage College
- Frankchy Perez, Student, Russell Sage College
- Matty Santiago, Student, NYU Silver School of Social Work
The panelists shared their personal journeys and professional insights, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that exist within the mental health profession. Discussions focused on improving access to licensure, streamlining educational pathways, supporting students—particularly those from historically underrepresented backgrounds—and the essential role that community and educational institutions play in developing the next generation of mental health professionals.
CICU also distributed materials highlighting initiatives like the Opportunity Promise Scholarship and the Founded by and for Visionaries campaign, both of which aim to uplift and support students pursuing careers in high-need fields.
We are proud to have convened this important conversation and remain committed to advocating for policies and partnerships that strengthen New York’s mental health workforce and expand opportunities for students at independent colleges and universities across the state.