Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz has appointed a new commissioner of mental health.

He is tapping Sarah Bonk to serve in the role.

“The Department of Mental Health is on the front lines of protecting the mental health and well-being of Erie County residents, working with related agencies and organizations to ensure that people who need critical help are able to get it, whatever their age, their situation, and whatever the hour,” Poloncarz said in a statement. “Sarah has significant experience in crisis management and response and has provided leadership and support as part of a team handling difficult situations. We have been fortunate to have her working with us in the county since early 2022 and I look forward to her bringing her skill set to the role of Commissioner of Mental Health.”

In the past, Bonk has been the emergency and disaster response coordinator and a special assistant to the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services for the county.

Before that, the county says she has served in many roles at Endeavor Health and Crisis Services.

The county says Bonk is a licensed master of social work and is currently working on her doctoral degree which is expected to be completed next year.

Bonk will replace Mark O'Brien, who retired as mental health commissioner.