Oregon Center of Excellence in Behavioral Health and Aging Ribbon Cutting

The Oregon Center of Excellence in Behavioral Health and Aging (OCEBHA) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Portland State University’s Urban Building on October 30, 2024. This significant event marked the opening of the pioneering center dedicated to advancing behavioral health and aging.

The initiation of the center highlights a major stride in enhancing collaborative efforts and research between Oregon Health Authority, Portland State University and Oregon Health & Science University. The ceremony attendees included influential leaders such as PSU President Ann Cudd, Ashley Thirstrup Chief of Staff & External Relations Division Director at Oregon Health Authority, Representative Rob Nosse, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, all of whom offered insightful speeches regarding the center’s future impact and role in behavioral health initiatives.

The center’s co-Director, Dr. Walton Dawson, hosted the exclusive gathering, which welcomed over 30 invited guests, signifying the commitment and community support towards better serving the needs of older adults and people with disabilities. As articulated on the OCEBHA website, the center is set to propel Oregon to the forefront of behavioral health and aging, addressing the increasing demand for specialized care in an aging population.

This partnership and the establishment of OCEBHA underscore a progressive step towards improved access to comprehensive behavioral health services, upskilled care providers, and a well-informed populace regarding behavioral health matters. It is a move that aligns with the State of Oregon’s investment in the Behavioral Health Initiative, championing enhanced services and support for older adults and those with physical disabilities.

For more information about initiatives, services, and future events, visit the Oregon Behavioral Health Initiative website.