Galloway, N.J. – Stockton University will host a free panel discussion on youth mental health issues from 4-6 p.m.  Tuesday, May 31, at the Campus Center Theatre.

The William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton, the Atlantic County Council of Education Associations and The Kennedy Forum will cosponsor the panel, “Investing in New Jersey Families: Building School and Community Youth Mental Health Services.”

Panelists are: Amy Kennedy from The Kennedy Forum, Dr. Brian Isaacson from AtlantiCare, Greater Egg Harbor School District Superintendent James Reina, Leesa Seymour from Atlantic County Youth Services Commission, Kathi Granato from Children’s Inter-Agency Mental Health Council, school nurse Victoria Druding and Professor of Psychology Dr. Sara Martino from Stockton University.

“Our Hughes Center poll in April highlighted the increased toll COVID-19 has taken on the mental health of New Jersey residents of all ages, related not just to health issues, but also education, employment and housing,” said John Froonjian, executive director of the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University. “It also indicated that residents believe more services are needed. In an effort to continue to conversation, we are pleased to collaborate in providing information to the public on this important topic with a focus on youth and schools.”

This event is free and open to the public.

K-12 educators who attend this panel discussion can earn two Professional Development Hours from the Southern Regional Institute and ETTC (SRI&ETTC) at Stockton University.  Forms will be available at the information table outside the Campus Center Theatre to register for the PD Hours.  Certificates will be emailed to attendees 5 days following the event.