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SAMHSA Administrator Charles Curie Resigns; Leadership Marked by Achievement

Statement of Michael J. Fitzpatrick
NAMI Executive Director

May 25, 2006

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) received the news today that Charles Curie, administrator of the federal Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), intends to resign, effective August 5, 2006. We express our appreciation and respect for the leadership he has provided in seeking to pave the way for genuine transformation of America’s mental healthcare system.

He is a leader who has been truly committed to principles of individual dignity and recovery. He understands the needs of people living with mental illnesses, and their families, and has served as our advocate.

His greatest contribution perhaps was his work with the White House in establishing the President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health, and then developing an action plan from its recommendations.

His commitment also has extended to advancing integrated treatment for dual diagnoses of mental illness and substance abuse, as well as elimination of the use of restraints and seclusion as a treatment option in mental health care.

NAMI’s friendship with him goes back many years, including his tenure as Deputy Secretary of Public Welfare for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in Pennsylvania. We look forward to continuing that friendship, and working with him on whatever future path he chooses.

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