Tiffany R. Rufino, MS is the Youth Mental Health Coalition Manager and Evaluator at the Public Health Institute of Western MA (PHIWM).  Born and raised in Springfield, MA, Tiffany is a proud graduate of the Springfield Public School system and committed to serving her community, especially as it relates to Springfield youth.  Tiffany leads the Coalition’s charge to destigmatize mental health among Springfield youth and begin to normalize conversations about experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, and when to seek help.  The Coalition also seeks to educate parents, guardians, caregivers, teachers, community-based organizations, and the community about youth behavioral health and how – together as a community – we can combat this stigma, seek solutions to root causes, begin to heal our beloved community, and pave a healthier future for our youth!  Tiffany earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing from the University of Hartford, as well as a Master of Science degree in Communications and Information Management from Bay Path University.  She has 14 years of professional experience in community and youth development, program evaluation, team leadership, and relationship management.  Prior to joining PHIWM, Tiffany consulted for Parent Villages, Inc, served as the Regional Director for Boston-based organization Scholar Athletes, and was the Community Development Manager for the Girl Scouts of Central & Western MA.  Tiffany enjoys spending time with her husband and relishing in all the adventures that come with being a mom of three daughters.  She also enjoys learning about herbalism – using plants and herbs as kitchen medicine - gardening, reading, and doing random DIY projects around the house.

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