Stefanie Zakowicz

Title
Vice President, Communications
Empire State Development Corp.

on which HORIZON BOARD(s) do you serve?
"I serve on the Horizon Health Services and Horizon Village boards."

HOW DID YOU COME TO BE ON THE BOARDS?
“Through Anne Constantino, with whom I attended Leadership Buffalo. Like most people, I have had personal experience in the area of mental illness and addiction through a close relative, so it is especially meaningful for me to participate at this level.”

WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND MOST REWARDING ABOUT SERVING ON THE BOARDS?
“I serve on several other boards in the community, but this is my first experience with an organization involved with the health and treatment of individuals. It is enormously gratifying to be a part of Horizon, and know its staff can truly impact peoples’ lives in such a positive way. I only hope I can contribute in some small way to its continued success.”

WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT HORIZON?
“I would like people to recognize two things: first that there is a tremendous need in our community for this kind of resource and two, that Horizon is here to help meet that need. Horizon helps individuals, and its staff does so in a caring, compassionate manner, keeping each individual’s dignity and respect in mind. The individuals who have the opportunity to rebuild their lives thanks to help they receive through Horizon’s programs are a testament to Horizon’s success.”