Suicide Prevention Training for CNY Educators
Suicide Prevention Training for CNY Educators
March 31st, 2025
This week marked something deeply meaningful here in Central New York. On Monday, over 300 educators from 31 school districts came together at the OnCenter in Syracuse for the region’s first-ever suicide prevention training dedicated solely to school personnel.
It was a full day centered on care, compassion, and connection. The conversation was led by Dr. Daniel Reidenberg, an internationally recognized expert in suicide prevention, and sponsored by our family, Oswego Health, and Onondaga County. This initiative was built with one goal in mind – saving lives by equipping the people who see and shape our children every single day.
I was truly honored to help announce and be a part of this gathering. Standing before a room full of educators – each of them committed to showing up for their students not just academically, but emotionally, was powerful.
As I looked out across the crowd, I couldn’t help but think about how often our kids are carrying things they’re too afraid to say out loud. Sometimes what they need most is someone who sees them, someone who listens. Our teachers, counselors, and school staff are often the first line of defense in a child’s mental health journey. They’re the trusted eyes and ears in the hallways.
And now, they’re even better prepared to help.
The training focused on early warning signs, how to talk about suicide in a way that removes stigma, and how to connect students to support before it’s too late. This isn’t easy work, but it’s necessary. The reality is that too many young people are silently struggling—and the more we empower those around them, the more lives we can change.
Mental health challenges don’t discriminate. They don’t wait until adulthood. They start early. That’s why we need to start early as well, with education, empathy, and action.
To everyone who took the time to attend, thank you. You chose to lean in. You chose to learn more so that you can love better. I believe with all my heart that’s what leadership looks like.
And to anyone reading this who is feeling overwhelmed – please remember, there is always help, and there is always hope.
Let’s continue building systems that prioritize mental health not as a side conversation, but as a core part of how we care for one another.
Together, we’re not just creating better schools – we’re creating safer, more compassionate communities for every child to grow in.
Stay tuned – new updates coming soon from the Lobdell Family Foundation including the official launch of our LobdellFamily.org platform supporting causes and making an impact around the globe.
