Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Announces Staff Promotions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 11, 2025

COLUMBUS (OH) – The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) has promoted two key staff members, Austin Lucas and Daniel Bennett.

Austin Lucas, who has been with OSPF since January 2018 as Program Director, will be assuming the responsibilities of Associate Director. Austin will lead the program staff in this new position and assist with federal and state legislative issues. He is an Ohio Certified Prevention Specialist Assistant and is certified as a Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Master Trainer. Additionally, he is certified as a Psychological Autopsy Investigator. Austin is a passionate advocate for suicide prevention, leading initiatives such as the Suicide Prevention Plan for Ohio Implementation Team and collaborating closely with partners across Ohio to disseminate training, knowledge, and resources.

Daniel Bennett has been promoted to Director of Statewide Prevention and Expansion. Daniel, who has been with OSPF as the Director of Coalitions and Strategic Initiatives, will continue his work with coalitions while taking on the critical task of expanding OSPF’s efforts by creating regional locations. He will also lead advocacy and legislative initiatives, organizing partners to help advocate for suicide prevention in Ohio. Daniel’s experience as an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant and his work with the Ohio Coalition Institute, the Ohio Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Prevention and Promotion, and the Life Side Ohio campaign position him well for this expanded role.

“We are thrilled to announce these well-deserved promotions for Austin and Daniel,” said OSPF Executive Director Tony Coder. “Their commitment and leadership will be key in moving OSPF’s mission forward. In their new roles, they will continue the great work to advance our efforts to create a positive impact and save lives across Ohio.”

About OSPF:

The OSPF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing suicide across Ohio. OSPF works to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide, promote evidence-based prevention strategies, and raise awareness about suicide’s connection to mental health, substance use disorders, and other contributing factors.

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Editor’s Note: A photo of Austin Lucas is available at https://www.ohiospf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Austin-Lucas-Team.jpg.

A photo of Daniel Bennett is available at https://www.ohiospf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/HeadshotsColumbus-Daniel-Bennett-LinkedIn-0480.jpg.