Ellen Ritz, President of NAMI Central Suffolk Long Island NY, has valued service to others throughout her life. Through NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, she teaches courses, chairs the FaithNet committee, runs support groups for people struggling with a mental health disorder as well as for their families. Ellen is a frequent presenter to students and staff at public schools, universities and medical schools, as well as to law enforcement, corporate groups, faith groups and to the general public. Ellen advocates with legislators regarding improving mental health services. She is also Vice President of NAMI NYS and serves on NYS’ Executive Committee, Program, Bylaws and P&P, Personnel and Education committees.

Ellen is a Registered Nurse with extensive experience in hospitals and schools. She is experienced in trauma units and is a long-time health educator. Ellen graduated from Columbia University and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, the Nursing Honor Society. She was a long-time member of the East Williston School District Board of Education and served as its President. She has been honored as a Woman of Distinction by the NY State Assembly and named to the Women’s Roll of Honor by the Town of North Hempstead. Ellen believes in making a difference.