Carmel, NY – Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne has announced the appointment of Sara Servadio as the new Commissioner of the Department of Mental Health, Social Services & Youth Bureau.  Servadio’s appointment comes in the wake of long time Commissioner Mike Piazza’s retirement on November 9, 2023. This promotion follows a distinguished tenure as Deputy Commissioner and comes at a crucial time as the department continues its vital mission to enhance the well-being of all residents.

“Sara Servadio is a consummate professional who brings a level of dedication and leadership that is unmatched in her field,” said County Executive Byrne. “I am confident that under her guidance the many operations she oversees, especially our mental health services, will thrive.”

Sara Servadio brings over 20 years of experience in case management and the mental health field to her new role as Commissioner. She began her work as Deputy Commissioner in Putnam County in February of 2022. Prior to that, her impressive career has included work at various non-profits as well as numerous assignments in Westchester County’s Department of Community Mental Health.

“I’m committed to ensuring our department remains a steadfast resource for Putnam County residents,” said Servadio. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to build on the strong foundation established by Mike Piazza, but we have a lot of work ahead of us. County Executive Byrne has made clear that we’re going to transform and expand the services we offer; we’re working to establish a Mental Wellness Stabilization Center, we’ve created a Director of Mental Health position, and we’re establishing a mental health co-response team with the Sheriff’s Office.”

Servadio was appointed by County Executive Byrne after a competitive interview process was conducted by a selection committee that included Legislator Amy Sayegh who chairs the Legislature’s Health Committee, Deputy County Executive Jim Burpoe, Director of Personnel Paul Eldridge, Deputy Director of Personnel Adrienne Iasoni, and Executive Director of Putnam/Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center Ann Ellsworth.

“Sara has proven to us during her tenure that she is the perfect person to fill Mike Piazza’s very big shoes,” said Legislator Amy Sayegh. “As Commissioner, she will be leading the team responsible for the well-being of some of our most vulnerable residents, and I’m confident they are in good hands.”

Servadio’s appointment is expected to be confirmed by the legislature on December 5^th.