The Behavioral Health Initiative at SOU
Vision
The Behavioral Health Initiative’s vision is to create a region where all people can access behavioral health support that is timely, responsive, and community-informed.
Values
Innovation & Creativity – We embrace new ideas, emerging practices, and creative problem-solving to address complex behavioral health challenges.
Trust & Integrity – We build and maintain authentic relationships grounded in transparency, accountability, and mutual respect.
Community-centered Collaboration – We engage with community partners as equals, co-creating solutions that reflect lived experiences and local strengths.
Holistic Well-being – We believe in supporting the whole person through integrated and inclusive behavioral health approaches.
Curiosity & Learning – We foster a culture of inquiry, continuous learning, and open-minded exploration of ideas, evidence, and perspectives.
Care & Compassion – We prioritize kindness, empathy, and shared care—for ourselves, each other, and the communities we serve.
Our Impact
Since being established in September 2024, the Behavioral Health Initiative has already made a difference. From expanding student opportunities to strengthening regional partnerships, our work is building momentum and delivering results.
Strategic Engagement
- 50+ meetings with campus & community partners
- Convened regional BHEACON gatherings
- Joined Governor’s BH Talent Council
Program & Grant Development
- Funding secured for CMHC faculty & student scholarships
- Grants submitted to launch MSW program & Internships
- 3 innovation internships launched with local partners
Campus Leadership
- Hosted campus BH dialogues
- Co-taught leadership course with SOU Institue for Applied Sustainability
- Supporting development of SOU staff/faculty crisis response team
Policy & Strategic Impact
- Testified to expand BH workforce (HB 3129)
- Published BHI’s first bi-annual report & strategy plan
- Collaborating with HECC & JHHS on workforce needs
The BHI Team
Robin Sansing, MSW, LCSW
BHI Director
Email: Robin.Sansing@sou.edu
Phone: 541.552.8868
Dee Carreon, MBA
BHI Strategy Specialist
Email: fretweld1@sou.edu
Phone: 541.227.3227
Mar Carter
BHI Office Specialist
Email: carterm3@sou.edu
Phone: 541.552.6133
Gratitude
The progress the Behavioral Health Initiative has made would not be possible without the dedication and collaboration of our community partners, faculty, staff, students, and supporters. We look forward to continuing this work together as we build a more resilient and inclusive behavioral health ecosystem in Southern Oregon.