New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins honored Ardsley resident Stephanie Marquesano at the 2026 New York State Senate Women of Distinction Ceremony in Albany. Ms. Marquesano was selected for her leadership and advocacy in addressing the intersection of mental health challenges and substance misuse, known as co-occurring disorders.
“Stephanie Marquesano embodies resilience, purpose, and leadership,” said Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. “After the death of her son, Harris, she built a nationally recognized organization that is changing how we understand and treat co-occurring disorders. Her work is saving lives, supporting families, and giving communities the tools they need to respond with compassion and evidence-based care. I am proud to honor her as a 2026 Woman of Distinction.”
Following the death of her 19-year-old son in 2013, Ms. Marquesano founded the harris project, the only nonprofit in the nation dedicated to building a system of care for those with, or at risk of, co-occurring disorders. Through her leadership, the organization has advanced integrated treatment models and launched CODA (Co-Occurring Disorders Awareness), a peer-led prevention initiative supporting youth and families.
Stephanie Marquesano said, “I am deeply honored to be recognized by Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins as her 2026 Woman of Distinction. This recognition is in honor of my son, Harris, whose life continues to guide and inspire this work, and for my family, who has carried both the heartbreak and the purpose forward. It also belongs to the countless young people, families, and communities navigating co-occurring disorders every day. Through the harris project and CODA, we are raising awareness, advancing prevention, and working to ensure that all youth, especially those at risk, are seen earlier, understood more fully, and supported through integrated, compassionate care. I am profoundly grateful for Leader Stewart-Cousins’ genuine commitment to this work and for her leadership in elevating an issue that impacts so many across New York State and beyond.”
Ms. Marquesano played a key role in developing the first co-occurring disorders prevention curriculum in partnership with the Partnership to End Addiction, Westchester County, and local coalitions, school districts, and faith leaders. She currently serves as co-chair of the Westchester County Co-Occurring System of Care Committee, and previously served on the New York State Opioid Settlement Board following her appointment by Senator Stewart-Cousins.
In addition to her work locally, Ms. Marquesano is a national leader in the field, serving as a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)-designated consultant for the Opioid Response Network. In this role, she provides technical assistance and training to states and communities across the country to expand access to integrated care.
The Women of Distinction program, held annually by the New York State Senate, celebrates exceptional women from each Senate District who have made meaningful contributions to their communities and demonstrated leadership across a wide range of fields.
