Amber Williams of Janus of Santa Cruz Named First Champion
SACRAMENTO (May 6, 2025) – The Steinberg Institute is proud to announce the selection of four 2025 Steinberg Institute Champions, to be unveiled each week throughout May, in conjunction with Mental Health Month. The 2025 class is a group of exceptional Californians whose visionary leadership and tireless dedication are transforming the state’s behavioral health landscape. They are advocates, service providers, and innovators working on efforts that directly address the goals of the Steinberg Institute’s Vision 2030 initiative.
As part of this year’s recognition, one 2025 Champions will also receive the Richard Van Horn Award, an honor established in memory of the late Richard Van Horn — one of California’s most respected mental health advocates.
“Our 2025 Champions are transforming lives by tackling some of the most complex challenges in behavioral health,” said Karen Larsen, CEO of the Steinberg Institute. “Vision 2030 calls on us to use innovative, data-driven approaches as we intervene in the mental health and substance use crisis gripping California. Our Champions are answering that call.”
The first 2025 Steinberg Institute Champion is Amber Williams, CEO of Janus of Santa Cruz, a nonprofit pioneering affordable and compassionate substance use disorder treatment. Williams has become a driving force in developing community-based alternatives to incarceration in Santa Cruz County.
Under her leadership, Janus of Santa Cruz spearheaded the development of a sobering center located within the Santa Cruz County Jail, offering a low-barrier point of entry into treatment and mental health services. This initiative not only diverts individuals away from the criminal justice system but also connects them with long-term support, housing, and care.
To follow each week as the 2025 Champions and the Richard Van Horn Award winner are unveiled, visit www.steinberginstitute.org/champions.
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About the Steinberg Institute
Founded in 2015 by former Sacramento Mayor and State Senate Pro Tem Emeritus Darrell Steinberg, the Steinberg Institute has been the driving force behind sweeping improvements in California behavioral health policy. The Institute is dedicated to transforming California’s mental health and substance use care systems through our Vision 2030 Initiative. Our Vision: California sets the standards for the nation in prevention, treatment and recovery, where all people receive quality care and support when, where, and for as long as they need it. Visit us at www.steinberginstitute.org.