VCU news

By Sathya Achia Abraham

Alexandria “Sandy” Lewis, Ed.D., has been named director of the Virginia Treatment Center for Children (VTCC) at Virginia Commonwealth University and assistant professor of psychiatry in the VCU School of Medicine.

As director of the VTCC, Lewis will have a key role in defining the strategic vision and future of programs, research and clinical service related to child mental health at VCU and the commonwealth. She will also serve as a leader in the VCU Department of Psychiatry.

“We look forward to Dr. Lewis’ vision and leadership in the advancement of the educational, research and clinical missions of the VTCC,” said Jerome Strauss III, M.D., executive vice president for medical affairs for the VCU Health System and dean of the VCU School of Medicine.

“The VTCC is critical to the school and the Health System’s efforts to improve the mental and behavioral health of children in our region,” he said.

Lewis brings more than 20 years of experience in the field of child mental health that includes program management, fiscal administration and strategic planning of various mental health operations. In her former role as executive director at McHenry County Mental Health Board, she was responsible for managing a $16 million budget and a staff of 50.  

“With Dr. Lewis’ direction, we will advance the mission of the VTCC and raise awareness of child mental health issues in the commonwealth,” said Joel Silverman, M.D., chair of the Department of Psychiatry.

“Sandy has a history of strong and creative leadership,” said Silverman.

Lewis served as president of the Illinois Association of Community Mental Health Authorities, member of the National Association of County Behavioral Health and Development Disabilities, and an appointed member to the Illinois Children’s Mental Health Partnership. She has served as vice president for Provena Behavioral Health Systems and executive director/CEO for Mental Health Center and Centerpoint.

Lewis received her undergraduate degree from George Williams College, her master’s degree in public administration from Roosevelt University, and her doctorate degree from Aurora University, George Williams College of Education.  

Lewis steps into the role of director of VTCC, which has been held by Robert Cohen, Ph.D., vice chair and professor of psychiatry and director of VTCC, for more than 30 years. Cohen’s contributions have been significant. He will continue working at VCU as a distinguished clinical professor.

The mission of the VTCC is to improve the mental health of children and families through clinical care, research, education and public awareness. It is housed within the Department of Psychiatry’s Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.