South Middlesex Times

Renowned clinician and Rutgers alumnus, Allan Blau, has made a significant impact in the realm of mental health by dedicating his life to helping young adults and adolescents facing emotional and psychiatric challenges. Blau's commitment to providing vital support for adolescents is evident in his words, "At every turn, I've asked, 'How would I respond if these children were my own – regardless of financial factors?'"

The Rutgers University Board of Governors recently announced that Blau is bestowing an endowment to create a fellowship program aimed at training the next generation of mental health clinicians. The fellowship program will support 10 Rutgers graduate students annually and provide comprehensive training in various disciplines related to mental health and wellness. Blau emphasized the importance of empowering the next generation to address the mental health crisis, stating, "Training requires a different kind of dedication, one that goes beyond the surface."

The fellowship program, overseen by Rutgers-New Brunswick’s chief wellness officer, Josh Langberg, will offer advanced clinical training across diverse settings to prepare future mental health leaders. Langberg highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to tackling the youth mental health crisis, stating, "This initiative will meet that need by providing interdisciplinary training within a state-of-the-art facility."

Rutgers Chancellor Francine Conway expressed gratitude for Blau's generous gift, noting that it aligns with Rutgers' mission to serve the common good through excellence in education and service. The partnership between Rutgers and Blau aims to support young people in need while training students to become the next generation of mental health practitioners.

Blau's dedication to enhancing mental health services extends beyond the fellowship program. He has played a pivotal role in establishing therapeutic schools and mental health services for adolescents in New Jersey. Blau's wife, Rosalyn Blau, commended his work, stating, "I'm incredibly proud – and grateful – for all of the work Allan has done, and the countless others he will help through this initiative."

Blau's donation also supports the construction of the Brandt Behavioral Health Treatment Center and Retreat, New Jersey's first treatment facility for adolescents and young adults backed by Rutgers. The center, made possible through a commitment by Rutgers alumna Marlene Brandt, will provide evidence-based behavioral health care and world-class treatment to New Jersey's youth. It will offer a holistic approach to mental health care, emphasizing the progress and development of the whole person.

The Brandt Center, a collaboration between Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care and Rutgers University–New Brunswick, is set to serve over 1,500 young adults annually and is expected to open its doors to patients this year.