VSS Grad Returns To Run Branch

The Vernon branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association has named Julia Payson as its new Executive Director

The former VSS grad comes back to Vernon to replace Sue Rossi who is retiring after three years leading the branch.

Payson, who has over 20 years of non-profit experience including leadership roles with the Canadian Cancer Society and John Howard Society of BC, says she will be pushing for more mental health services to meet the growing need in the community.

“She will be actively working to promote early intervention and prevention education and programs to better service our community,” says a news release.

Most recently, Payson has been the Secretariat Director for Community Action Initiative, a funding agency focused on building capacity in the mental health and substance use sector.

Photo: New CMHA Vernon executive director Julia Payson (left) with retiring ED Sue Rossi.