It is with great sadness that the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) announces the passing of Carolyn Givens, our organization’s first executive director and a trailblazing leader in Ohio’s behavioral health community.
Statement from OSPF CEO Tony Coder:
“I had the privilege of knowing Carolyn during her time as Director of the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Addiction Services, and later as the first Executive Director of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Carolyn was a kind and compassionate leader who stood firmly in her convictions and was deeply committed to serving others. She served her community and state admirably, and I am grateful for the strong foundation she built for OSPF. Her leadership helped shape the organization we are today. We extend our condolences to Carolyn’s family and friends, and we remain deeply thankful for her invaluable contributions to our mission and the families and communities we serve.”
Carolyn Givens
May 1, 1957 – September 29, 2025
Read Carolyn’s full obituary here
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