national traveller mental health conference

NAMICon 2024

Reset password.

• Need Technical Assistance?    [email protected]

June 4 to 6 in Denver, Colorado Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel

Join hundreds of passionate and vibrant voices from around the world to elevate mental health!

last chance to save - register by april 30 to enjoy additional savings!

June 3 rd - Alliance Day

June 4-6 th - main convention.

Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel

NAMICon is where hundreds of dynamic and important voices unite to improve mental health for all through mental health awareness, education and advocacy.

It's where personal journeys are celebrated, positive change takes root, and new connections and community cultivate a safe space, fostering support, hope, and healing.

Why Attend?

Immerse yourself in a transformative experience!

There is something for everyone at NAMICon—whether you are living with a mental health condition, caring for someone who is, a NAMI grassroots leader, a mental health professional, or just starting on your mental health journey.

Come ready to attend over 50+ engaging sessions exploring important mental health topics and issues that matter most to you. Join dynamic discussions that challenge your thinking and share invaluable knowledge. Be inspired by meaningful moments and leave with new insights, tools and resources, that will reignite your passion for change.

NAMI Alliance Day

NAMI Alliance Day precedes the general attendance portion of NAMICon and is designed specifically for NAMI State Organizations and NAMI Affiliates. Presented by departments across NAMI National, this day is dedicated to supporting the great work taking place across the Alliance.   

Date: Monday, June 3, 2024

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Audience: Board Volunteers, Development Directors, Education/Program Managers, Executive Directors, Public Policy/Advocacy Leaders and Walk Managers.

We've curated an enriching experience with diverse tracks designed to explore and address critical aspects of mental health and well-being, ensuring that attendees will gain valuable insights and meaningful perspectives. Here's a glimpse into the compelling tracks we have lined up for NAMICon 2024.

Advocating for Access to Care Join discussions on breaking down barriers to mental health care, addressing disparities and advancing policies that promote accessible and equitable mental health services for all.

Hope for Caregivers via Research Delve into the latest research and innovative approaches that offer hope and support for caregivers. Explore how advancements in science and understanding contribute to the well-being of those who provide essential care to their loved ones.

Youth & Young Adults Tailored for the unique challenges faced by the younger generation, this track explores mental health issues specific to youth and young adults. Lead and engage in conversations about support systems, coping mechanisms and fostering resilience during critical life stages.

Workplace Mental Health Uncover strategies for creating mentally healthy workplaces. From stress management to cultivating positive organizational cultures, this track focuses on promoting mental well-being within professional environments.

Peer Stories In this powerful track, people with lived experiences share their stories, providing a platform for empathy, understanding, and connection. Explore narratives that inspire, educate, and foster a sense of hope and community.

Help Not Handcuffs (Justice Diversion) Discuss the intersection of mental health and the justice system, advocating for a transformative shift in thinking towards more compassionate and effective approaches. Explore alternatives to incarceration, emphasizing mental health treatment and support over punitive measures.

**Agenda is subject to change, check back for more detail as NAMICon gets closer.

• Alliance Day - June 3
• Day 1 - June 4
• Day 2 - June 5
• Day 3 - June 6

Welcome & Opening Remarks

Impact sessions, #namifundraising: getting the most out of your social media strategy.

Let's get social! From Facebook to Instagram to TikTok, how are you promoting your NAMI Organization in the digital space to not only fundraise but to engage new, diverse audiences? Join the Field Resource Development Team as we discuss all things social media fundraising and awareness to build your local engagement strategy.

Building our Alliance by Reaching Diverse Communities

NAMI state and affiliate leaders are increasingly engaged in outreach, program and initiatives designed for diverse communities. They recognize that the need in these communities is great, that NAMI increasingly understands how to engage diverse communities and this engagement leads to new funding opportunities, new strategic partnerships and strengthening their organizations. This session will feature innovative ways in which NAMI at all levels - national, state and affiliate levels - are increasing their focus on engaging with diverse communities in new ways. This session will feature newly rolled out resources, tools and strategies to connect with diverse and minoritized communities.   

Embracing Advocacy: Tools to Help You Succeed

Advocacy is a critical yet often neglected pillar of NAMI's work. In this session, you will learn about what resources are available from NAMI National to strengthen your advocacy impact from advocacy campaigns and publications to grants and hands-on guidance. Attendees will walk away with an understanding of NAMI-specific advocacy tools and how to use them for their own state and local-level policy priorities.

Guide to Measuring the Impact of NAMI Signature Programs

This presentation will serve as a guide to measuring the impact of NAMI Signature Programs through numbers and stories.  Through the presentation, hands-on activities, group discussions and Q&A, attendees will learn the role impact measurement plays in program growth, and sustainability, along with implementing strategies to measuring program outcomes. The session will also touch upon ways NAMI can help NSOs and NAs to track and retrieve their program data for ease of use.

How to Build a Grants Program

Join us for an overview of how to build a successful grants program. We'll cover how to find grants, tips for grant writing, and advice on how to prioritize grants when you have a small staff. We will also answer your grants-related questions and take feedback to develop additional, virtual grants trainings.

Playing Cupid: How to Match Volunteers to Your Organization’s Needs

Volunteers are the foundation for the work that NAMI Affiliates and NAMI State Organizations do. They provide programming, assist with events and operations, and join Boards of Directors. They strengthen ties to the communities served and broaden support networks. Given the important role they play, taking an intentional and strategic approach to recruiting volunteers can go a long way in meeting an organization's needs, and fostering a stable and sustainable volunteer base. In this session, participants will receive tips and tools on how to: 1) identify their organization's needs; 2) find volunteers with the skills and interests to meet those needs; and 3) match volunteers up to opportunities with their organization.

With a Little Help from My Friends – How can NAMI State Organizations help Affiliates maintain good governance?

All incorporated NAMI organizations have an obligation to remain in good standing in their jurisdictions, including any and all mandatory filings at the local, state, and federal levels. NAMI organizations operate as nonprofit entities with many of the same requirements as other corporate entities within their state. On occasion, these administrative necessities take a back seat to the well-intended ambitions to deliver on the NAMI mission. This session aims to share strategies that refocus NAMI organizations to meet their requirements under the law so that they are free and unencumbered to do all the wonderful and supportive activities that help those in their community.

Approaching our 50th anniversary: An update on our strategic planning process

Over the last ~6 months, we have been working with The Bridgespan Group to help us craft a strategic plan to guide the next phase of NAMI's impact journey. Today, we are coming together to share an update on the strategic planning process and an emerging vision for impact and theory of change to guide the work of our Alliance for the next five years. This vision outlines a path towards catapulting our impact by harnessing the full power we bring as a nationwide movement. It is informed by hundreds of voices across our Alliance and seeks to integrate the learnings and recommendations from 10X and DEI initiatives. Please join us to hear a preview of what lies ahead as we near our 50th anniversary.

Impact Sessions Repeated

Closing remarks, welcome reception.

We are so excited to welcome everyone to NAMICon 2024!! Join us as we kick things off in the Mile High City! There will be food, drinks, a DJ, games and lots of amazing people. Can’t wait to see you there!

75 years of NIMH: Progress and Priorities

Dr. Josh Gordon

Joshua A. Gordon, M.D., Ph.D. is the Director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders. He oversees an extensive research portfolio of basic and clinical research that seeks to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cure. Dr. Gordon pursued a combined M.D.-Ph.D. degree at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Medical school coursework in psychiatry and neuroscience convinced him that the greatest need, and greatest promise, for biomedical science was in these areas. During his Ph.D. thesis with Dr. Michael Stryker, Dr. Gordon pioneered the methods necessary to study brain plasticity in the mouse visual system. Upon completion of the dual degree program at UCSF, Dr. Gordon went to Columbia University for his psychiatry residency and research fellowship because of the breadth and depth of the research opportunities there. Working with Dr. Rene Hen, Dr. Gordon and colleagues studied the role of the hippocampus, a brain structure known to be important for memory and emotional processes associated with anxiety and depression. He joined the Columbia faculty in 2004 as an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Gordon’s research focuses on the analysis of neural activity in mice carrying mutations of relevance to psychiatric disease. His lab studied genetic models of these diseases from an integrative neuroscience perspective, focused on understanding how a given disease mutation leads to a behavioral phenotype across multiple levels of analysis. To this end, he employs a range of systems neuroscience techniques, including in vivo imaging, anesthetized and awake behavioral recordings, and optogenetics, which is the use of light to control neural activity. His research has direct relevance to schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and depression. In addition to his research, Dr. Gordon was an associate director of the Columbia University/New York State Psychiatric Institute Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, where he directed the neuroscience curriculum and administered research training programs for residents. Dr. Gordon also maintained a general psychiatric practice, caring for patients who suffer from the illnesses he studied in his lab at Columbia. Dr. Gordon’s work has been recognized by several prestigious awards, including the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation – NARSAD Young Investigator Award, the Rising Star Award from the International Mental Health Research Organization, the A.E. Bennett Research Award from the Society of Biological Psychiatry, and the Daniel H. Efron Research Award from the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology.

NIMH is celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year. In light of this milestone, Dr. Gordon will discuss the contributions of NIMH research to current approaches to care of individuals with mental illnesses and highlight priorities for research aimed at advancing care in the future.

"The Way Work Should Be"- Employee Workplace Well-Being Initiative

Jennifer Thompson

Jennifer Thompson has a distinguished career spanning over 30 years in the non-profit sector, including more than 15 years in non-profit healthcare. Acknowledged for her notable contributions, she was awarded the Gen2Gen Innovation Fellowship by CoGenerate in 2019 and recognized as a Healthy Communities Next Gen Fellow by the American Hospital Association in 2015. Jennifer is also an alumna of the Fund-Raising School of the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. In 2022, Jennifer assumed the role of Executive Director at NAMI Maine, providing visionary leadership, guiding the organization through strategic planning initiatives focused on addressing the mental health needs of individuals, families, and communities across Maine while staying true to its mission and vision. Under her stewardship, NAMI Maine recently celebrated its 40th year of dedicated service to the state. Before her tenure at NAMI Maine, Jennifer served as President of Health Equity Alliance, where her advocacy efforts centered on marginalized communities, particularly those impacted by HIV+ status and substance use disorder. Before her relocation to Maine, Jennifer spearheaded Pennsylvania's largest school-based food insecurity program. In addition to her professional roles, Jennifer holds positions on the NE Delta Dental and Carpenter’s Boat Shop Boards of Directors, contributing her expertise to furthering their respective missions. She also generously volunteers her time and skills to the Multiple Sclerosis Association. During her leisure time, Jennifer has a passion for cooking as a retired Chef, whittling wooden spoons, and exploring all that Maine has to offer.

Discover "The Way Work Should Be" , an initiative designed for businesses to help them prioritize mental health and employee well-being. This tailored workplace program targets the business community, in offering a comprehensive approach that includes online and in-person courses on mental health and well-being as well as access to a resource library that includes videos, podcasts and a toolbox, along with information for developing a funding stream that includes building a NAMIWalks team.

Civilian Crisis Response: Transforming Public Safety Systems to Meet People’s Needs

Jackson Beck

Jackson Beck is a senior program associate with the Vera Institute of Justice’s Redefining Public Safety initiative. His work focuses on improving public safety system responses for people with mental health, substance use, and other unmet needs, with a focus on expanding access to specially trained civilian responders as an alternative to police. This has included researching and uplifting the promising practices of existing programs that are successfully dispatching civilian crisis responders to certain 911 calls, for which he was awarded Researcher of the Year in 2022 by CIT International. Jackson also provides technical assistance to support the development of these responses across the country, partnering with local practitioners and advocates to drive change in their own public safety ecosystems. Before joining Vera in 2018, Jackson assisted the communications team at Families Against Mandatory Minimums in Washington, DC. He also supported advocacy to expand resources for people in recovery with United Strategies in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Jackson holds a BA in political science from Yale University.

Christine Michels

Christine Michels is currently a Program Administrator with the City of Saint Paul and is responsible for the creation and implementation of Familiar Faces. Prior to working with the City of Saint Paul, Christine was the Emergency Services Division Director for Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Christine is a Human Services professional with over 25 years of experience in the fields of criminal justice, re-entry, housing, and homeless services.

Claire Ryder

Claire Ryder serves as the Director of Business Development and Innovation for the national health and human services organization, Resources for Human Development (RHD). RHD manages the fourth branch of the emergency response system in New Orleans, the Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit (MCIU). She co-leads the International Crisis Response Association (ICRA) and works as a consultant for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Claire has completed her course work for a doctorate in Population Health at Jefferson University and expects to defend her dissertation in August 2024. Her dissertation explores staff safety in civilian crisis response models. Claire has a master's degree in clinical psychology and spent six years in mobile crisis response and community trauma before moving into health administration where she has worked for the past 12 years.

Parallel to the implementation of 988 and unprecedented investments in crisis services, an increasing number of communities across the country have launched civilian crisis responses with a focus on 911 callers who would otherwise receive police responses by default. This discussion will examine the implementation of these programs in New Orleans and St. Paul, as well as the Vera Institute’s efforts to ensure that system changes are data-informed and accountable to directly impacted communities.

College Life with Psychosis: Transforming Educational Environments and Communities

Cecilia McGough

Cecilia McGough is a New York City/Boston-based mental health activist, nonprofit executive director at SWP, VASTS mentor at NASA Langley, keynote speaker, co-author, consultant, and former pulsar astronomer. Although being autistic and having schizophrenia, she refuses to let her diagnoses define her. McGough is the founder and executive director of the global nonprofit Students With Psychosis, a 501(c)(3) organization empowering student leaders and advocates worldwide through community building and collaboration. She currently serves as a VASTS mentor through NASA Langley Research Center and is a former Global Shaper and task force member of the World Economic Forum. In 2020 and 2022, McGough was consulted as a conference advisor for Healthevoices and is currently serving on the planning committee for the Women's Mental Health Conference at Yale from 2022 to the present. McGough made her mark early in her career at the age of 17 by co-discovering PSR J1930-1852, which has the widest known orbit around another neutron star. This discovery opened doors, leading to her publication as a co-author in the Astrophysical Journal and representation of the United States in the International Space Olympics in Russia. McGough's story as a radio astronomer is documented in the film "Little Green Men," and her advocacy journey can be seen in the PBS Documentary "Mysteries of Mental Illness," which is available for streaming on Amazon Prime. With over 40 million views, her journey has been featured in prominent media outlets such as CBS This Morning, Glamour UK, Fortune, The Boston Globe, Women's Health Magazine, Forbes, PBS, USA Today College, Healthline, Barcroft TV, Anthony Padilla, Daily Mail, The Indian Express, Astronomy Now, MTV University, Parade, TEDx, SBSK, WGBH, Mental Health America, Psychology Today, and more.

Rei Scott is one of two Presidents of the Students With Psychosis Executive Board. He has spoken at several events with SWP, including South Southwest MHTTC's First Episode Psychosis Conference and the Tennessee Association of Mental Health Organizations' Early Psychosis Conference in 2022. Rei is also a social work student at Ohio State University who graduated from Columbus State Community College with his AAS in Social and Human Services. He is working on his Peer Recovery Specialist training which he hopes to finish this year. He has served on several other boards, including Mental Health America's 2023 Young Mental Health Leaders Council and a local Youth Action Board through the Community Shelter Board. He advocates for disability rights within his community but hopes to expand his reach further. As someone who is trans, disabled, and Jewish, he is very passionate about the lived experience perspective and the inclusion of minorities and intersectional identities in mental health research. He is especially interested in peer support and art as vehicles for change in the treatment process. In his free time, he likes to spend time with his cats, draw, and play video games.

Emeka Chima

Emeka Chima (he/him) is 25 years old and has been formally diagnosed with autism and paranoid schizophrenia. He currently lives in D.C., Maryland area. Since April 2020 he has been an active participant and Student Leader within the Student with Psychosis community which aims to break the stigma around mental illness. Chima received his Bachelor’s degree in the field of Information Systems Management in August 2022. Currently, he serves as co-President on the SWP Executive Board and as Peer Support Specialist for the First Episode Psychosis program OnTrack Maryland the latter since July 2022 serving fellow peers and their families through the eye-opening and transformative recovery process. As a mental health advocate, Chima has established many roles and is striving toward a more diverse and inclusive outlook on mental illness and psychosis which has been his prominent goal when facing the stigmatized culture throughout mainstream society. Chima has been a proponent and activist of achieving mental wellness and continues to represent his values through public speaking and storytelling. His advocacy work has reached numerous audiences in several virtual and in-person settings namely the Schizophrenia International Research Society in Florence, Italy, the Mental Health America Conference in Washington, D.C, and most recently a panel talk at Harvard Medical School. Chima has contributed his expertise to other platforms including an interview with CureTalk, the Students with Psychosis 2023 Annual conference, an interview with Youth Engaged for Change, a podcast with HealthHats, the Living with Psychosis podcast, and recent board member for the Young Adult Advisory Council for On Our Own of Maryland. An interesting fact about Chima is that his hobbies are playing cello and writing poetry.

Students With Psychosis is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers student leaders and advocates worldwide through community building and collaboration. This session will be presented by three Students With Psychosis members. The panel will have a mix of storytelling and discussion followed by a Q&A. The discussion and storytelling will highlight intersectionality, academic accommodations, and action points on transforming community, workplace, and educational environments.

Crisis Can't Wait: Advancing Equity in Mental Health Care

Darcy Gruttadaro

This session will provide innovative ways that communities are tackling the need to advance equity in access to mental health care for people in Black/African Ancestry communities experiencing serious mental health conditions. Participants will learn about strategic partnerships, building community, new resources to use in outreach and more. Much important work is happening on 988, this session explores how we leverage that work for good. Speakers listed are placeholders and to be confirmed.

From Roots to Resilience: Fostering Healthy Minds in Youth

James Garofalo

James Garofalo is a distinguished figure in the mental health sector who has made significant strides from his early diagnosis of ADHD at age 5 to becoming a leader in mental health advocacy. His experiences, marked by early struggles and a transformative enlistment in the US Army, shaped his empathetic approach and drive in the field. In 2018, James took a significant step by founding a mental health clinic that became renowned for its patient-centered and comprehensive care. His visionary leadership and innovative strategies led to the clinic's rapid acclaim and subsequent acquisition by a national healthcare conglomerate, amplifying his impact across the industry. Currently, James serves as a Cofounder & CEO of a growing intensive outpatient and psychiatric clinic in Colorado. James continues to push boundaries in mental health care and encourages his team to do the same. His leadership emphasizes a culture of compassion, advanced treatment methodologies, and a staunch commitment to destigmatizing mental health.

Christina Camomilli-Starkey

Christina Camomilli-Starkey is a double board-certified nurse practitioner w/ a passion for mental health in children & teens. Christina began her advocacy for kids & adolescents in 1996 as an RN in the Pediatric ICU. In 2001, she graduated with her master’s in nursing & worked as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in a pediatric primary care clinic as well as at a center for children with special needs. The best “work” experience of Christina’s career began in 2003 with the birth of her daughter, Erin. Christina took time to be a full-time mother to Erin & later also to her brother, Brad, who was born in 2006. Perhaps the most pivotal time in Christina’s career began in 2018, when her daughter began to show signs of mental illness. Erin faced many challenges & roadblocks in her pursuit of remission. Christina’s knowledge as a pediatric nurse practitioner & mother were ineffectual in her attempts to navigate the world of mental health. Christina’s efforts to advocate for her child were impeded. Erin lost her battle with mental illness & died by suicide on September 5, 2019. This was the moment that the true work of Christina’s life began. Christina graduated from UCCS Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing & Health Sciences in 2022 with a post master’s certificate and started work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner.

Our presentation explores how children's early thought & behavior patterns can lead to mental health issues. It highlights the limitations of current systems & attendees will be challenged to think innovatively & more inclusively. Featuring a mother's story about losing her teen to suicide, this session emphasizes the need for awareness & action in nurturing children's creative development & mental well-being, urging proactive steps from parents, educators, leaders, & health professionals.

Hope Anchored in Evidence: Empowering Caregivers through Mental Health Literacy

Pernille Bülow

Pernille Bülow, PhD, is the founder and CEO of Mind Blossom, a 501(c)(3) public charity providing free of cost mental health education to under-resourced and historically marginalized communities. Pernille received her PhD in Neuroscience at Emory University, followed by a short post-doctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. In her academic research, Pernille uncovered novel brain development mechanisms, significantly advancing our understanding of how the developing brain adapts to its environment. As a first generation immigrant and college graduate, Pernille was not introduced to the concept of mental health literacy until her early 20s. Throughout her undergraduate and doctoral studies, she experienced firsthand the therapeutic and empowering effects of delving into the intricacies of the human brain and psychology. This knowledge not only facilitated her personal recovery from a serious mental illness but also equipped her with the tools to provide crucial support to family members grappling with mental health challenges. Together with academic collaborators, Pernille is now conducting research on the social and economical effects of mental health education programming. Pernille’s passion, and Mind Blossom’s mission, is to democratize mental health knowledge with a particular focus on empowering caregivers and people at risk. Pernille has been featured on various webinars and podcasts and is a writer at Psychology Today.

This session delves into the science behind the underappreciated potential of mental health literacy for caregivers supporting people with mental illnesses, highlighting its positive effects on their well-being and coping skills. We explore the broader social and economic implications and the current gaps in knowledge. We end by putting forth innovative, practical and accessible solutions for implementation.

Mission Zero: NH's Collaborative Initiative to Eliminate Emergency Department Boarding

Julianne Carbin

Julianne Carbin, MSW is the Deputy Director, Division for Behavioral Health at the NH Department of Health and Human Services. Julianne works in partnership with other state agencies and community partners to advance statewide policy, funding and program initiatives aimed at building a comprehensive, integrated, and high quality behavioral health continuum. Prior to working for the state of NH, Julianne spent 13 years working as part of Wisconsin’s community based mental health system. She served as Executive Director of NAMI Wisconsin where she worked in partnership with diverse stakeholders to advance grassroots policy, funding, public outreach, and peer support initiatives statewide. Prior to that she worked as the Executive Director of a county based nonprofit that provided supported employment services to individuals with serious mental illness. Julianne has a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts (Rhetorical Studies) and Master’s degree in Social Work (Mental Health).

Susan Stearns

Susan Stearns is Executive Director of NAMI New Hampshire.   Prior to becoming Executive Director in January 2022, she served as the agency’s Deputy Director and has been employed by NAMI New Hampshire for more than a decade.   Susan has worked in the non-profit sector in New Hampshire for over 30 years, advocating for families, children, and individuals with disabilities.   Throughout her career, Susan has been first and foremost an advocate, often testifying at New Hampshire Legislative hearings and interfacing with policymakers.   As Executive Director, she leads NAMI New Hampshire’s policy work, as well as representing the organization on a number of boards, committees, and commissions.   Her personal experience advocating for loved ones in both the child and adult mental health systems drives her passion for transforming New Hampshire’s system of care in order to improve the lives of all Granite Staters affected by mental illness and suicide.   Susan does this work because no mother’s child should have to fear seeking help for a medical condition because of stigma and discrimination.

Despite adoption of a 10-Year Mental Health Plan and significant investment, NH continues to face emergency department boarding. NH DHHS and its partners developed the Mission Zero initiative to address 3 key drivers to this issue – front door, inpatient supply & coordination, and back door issues. Through this collaborative initiative the partners have forged an alliance to help all Granite Staters access the right care at the right time so that they can live full lives in their communities.

Our Job Is Not Done: A Renewed Focus on Mental Health Parity

Roland Behm

Roland Behm is the co-founder of the Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership and a past chair of the board of directors of the Georgia chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. He is the father of two children, one of whom, his son Kyle, died by suicide in August 2019. A lawyer by training and practice, Roland has been advocating for mental health and suicide prevention for more than thirteen years, including drafting portions of the Georgia Mental Health Parity Act (2022).

Kim H. Jones is the Executive Director of NAMI Georgia. NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization, dedicated to building better lives for those affected by mental illness. As executive director, Kim H. Jones is responsible for the strategic management and financial operations of NAMI Georgia. NAMI Georgia is responsible for supporting 21 local NAMI Affiliate’s across the state of Georgia. She has over 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, education, training, marketing, and business development. Mrs. Jones is also a member of: the Behavioral Health Reform and Innovation Commission, appointed by the late Speaker Ralston, the Crisis Intervention Team Advisory Board, and the DBHDD 988 Advisory Board. She is also co-founder of the Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership (GMHPP). Under her leadership, NAMI Georgia’s advocacy and GMHPP were key to the passage of the Mental Health Parity Act, Georgia General Assembly - HB 1013 which ensured that behavioral health and physical health are covered equitably by public and private insurance.

Jennifer Snow

Jennifer Snow is the National Director of Government Relations and Policy for NAMI. She is responsible for developing and implementing NAMI’s overall federal agenda to advance public policies that support people with mental health conditions. She and her team work to ensure an integrated federal strategy, overseeing the analysis of and strategic response to Congressional and administrative activities.

Mental health is health, but too often health insurance won’t cover mental health care equally, or at “parity,” with physical health care. However, the fight for parity is heating up again with new federal rules aimed at ensuring that services are available without long waits or excessive out-of-pocket costs. States are also finding innovative ways to ensure people can access mental health benefits with fewer barriers. Hear from policy experts about what new tools exist to enforce parity.

Stress: Science, Symptoms and Healing Strategies

Devika Bhushan

Devika Bhushan, MD, is a pediatrician and public health leader on a mission to drive health innovation, resilience, and equity. As California’s Acting Surgeon General (2022) and its inaugural Chief Health Officer (2019-2022), Dr. Bhushan was a key public health advisor to the California Governor. In these roles, she led policy and practice innovation at a statewide level by co-leading the launch and implementation of the ACEs Aware initiative, focused on healing from childhood trauma. Her expertise spans trauma-informed systems, stress and resilience, mental health, and gender and health equity — with work and perspectives featured in The Lancet, Pediatrics, JAMA, Slate, NPR, The Los Angeles Times, and Forbes Health. Dr. Bhushan trained at Harvard and Johns Hopkins. Dr. Bhushan serves on Stanford’s adjunct faculty and as a senior advisor to entities that aim to advance health, innovation, and equity, ranging from non-profits to a venture capital firm, as well as on the Board of Directors of the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the California Partners Project, co-founded by California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. Dr. Bhushan is also an award-winning mental health spokesperson. Having publicly shared her own journey with bipolar disorder in 2022 to destigmatize mental illness and spread hope, she now leads a newsletter community (https://askdrdevikab.substack.com/) and YouTube channel/podcast (https://www.youtube.com/@drdevikab) to share evidence-based insights for well-being. She is currently writing her first book in this space. Dr. Bhushan is a parent, an immigrant, and a first-generation Indian-American.

Rachel Gilgoff

As a board-certified general pediatrician, child abuse pediatrician, and integrative medicine specialist, Dr. Gilgoff brings a multidisciplinary approach to ACEs, toxic stress, healing, and well-being. Over the course of her career, she has been the Medical Director of the Clinical Innovations and Research Team within Center for Youth Wellness, and co-founder of the National Committee on Asthma and Toxic Stress. She co-developed the Resiliency Clinic, a group clinic intervention model to treat toxic stress. More recently, she co-created the “Stress Busters: Clinical Strategies for Preventing and Mitigating Toxic Stress,” a free, on-line course to help health care professionals develop their clinical response to childhood adversity and toxic stress through a comprehensive exploration of seven evidence-based, stress management strategies, called stress busters. In addition, she helped develop the ACEs Aware Stress Busters Resource Webpage, sharing tools and resources to prevent and heal toxic stress for all of us. She is currently an advisor with the California Aces Aware Initiative, clinician at GetzWell Personalized Pediatrics clinic in San Francisco, and an Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Gilgoff is dedicated to addressing health issues resulting from child abuse and toxic stress, creating systems of care that incorporate the science of stress biology and wellness, and collaborating across sectors to develop multidisciplinary, integrative, human-centered, and holistic approaches to healing.

This lecture will review the four stress responses; the role of positive, tolerable, and toxic stress, how getting stuck in 'survival mode' impacts health; and concrete healing tools and strategies for both children and caregivers to thrive after adversity. This will include: Dan Seigel’s Window of Tolerance, Bruce Perry’s “Regulate, Relate, Reason,” and stress-informed approaches to supportive relationships, sleep, nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness, nature, and mental health care.

A Curious Trip: The Present and Future of Psychedelic Treatments for Mental Illness

This talk will describe the current landscape of psychedelic treatment for mental illness in the United States. Topics will include the legal status of psychedelic treatments, a synopsis of the most studied treatments and their corresponding research findings, the applicability of recovery principles in psychedelic treatment, recommendations for individuals pursuing these treatments and for their families, and finally, challenges and open questions in the field.

Building Collaborations in Faith Communities

Chris Miller

Dr. Chris Miller is a religious studies teacher at a Catholic High School in the San Francisco Bay Area. He most recently worked for Catholic Charities Santa Clara County supporting the Community Action Poverty Simulation program as well as serving as the youth and young adult coordinator at a 5,000-family parish in San Jose, CA. Prior to this position, Chris taught theology and served as director of campus ministry at a Catholic boarding school in Connecticut. He also worked as the Director of Youth Ministry at a Catholic parish in Palo Alto and worked as a Catholic middle school teacher in Gilroy and San Jose, CA. Chris is currently enrolled in a post-master’s Certificate in Spiritual Formation at Boston College and recently earned a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at Notre Dame de Namur University and a Graduate Diploma in Canon Law through Saint Paul University. In 2019, he graduated with a doctoral degree in education from the University of San Francisco, focusing research on the Kairos Retreat experience in Jesuit High Schools in the United States. A graduate of Santa Clara University, where he received a bachelors’ degree in History, a California Teaching Credential, a master’s degree in Education, and a master’s degree in Pastoral Ministries, Chris is also an alum of Boston College where he completed a post-master’s program in youth and young adult faith. Chris currently serves as co-chair of the Pastoral Care and Mental Wellness Ministry Network through the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, a member of the California State Mental Health Policy Workgroup, a member of the NAMI National FaithNet Steering Committee, and a member of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s Faith Communities Task Force.

Ray Merenstein

In 2002, Mr. Merenstein returned to his native Denver after a decade of health care advocacy work in Washington, DC. Over the course of the next four years, he served as Vice President for Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation’s $250 million Imagine the Miracles comprehensive campaign. In December 2005, Ray launched RDM Communications tying his political, media and fundraising acumen into one package on behalf of government, non-profit and corporate clients. He has guided capital campaigns from $250,000 to $25,000,000 as well as lead consultant on strategic plans, communication audits, annual funds, endowment campaigns, and board development. Ray became Executive Director of NAMI Colorado (National Alliance on Mental Illness) in January 2021. He holds a master’s degree in mass communication from the University of Florida and a bachelor’s degree in American Studies from Tulane University. He has been quoted or published in the Wall Street Journal, Science, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Business Week, USA Today, and Nature as well as testified before Congress. Mr. Merenstein presents regularly to health and communication groups locally and nationally. He served as chair Colorado’s Special Education Advisory Committee, and currently sits on Colorado’s Rare Disease Advisory Council. Ray and his wife, Ilana Steinberg, live in Denver and have one son and two daughters. Ray loves Paddington and Lemon Meringue Pie.

Babu Mathew

Babu has been serving on the NAMI Colorado Board Directors from 2018 and as President from 2020. He currently serves his second term as Secretary on the NAMI State President’s Council and since 2019 on the NAMI Faithnet National Advisory Committee. Along with his board leadership at NAMI Colorado, Babu has been collaborating with the NAMI CCIE team on Faithnet outreach to interfaith communities and Chai & Chat initiative that centers on destigmatizing the conversation around mental health and wellness in South Asian communities. For his outstanding contribution in raising public awareness about mental illness, reducing stigma in diverse communities, Babu was presented with the NAMI Cross-Cultural Innovation and Engagement Award at the NAMICon 2023. His lived experience as a family peer for over a decade has shaped his calling to be a passionate Mental Health Advocate. Since 2015, the local NAMI Family Support Group has been a safe sanctuary and support for him. He is a certified teacher for the NAMI Family-to-Family program and Program Leader for the NAMI Family & Friends. He has completed the Mental Health First Aid training. Babu has attended NAMI National Conventions from 2016 and the 2020 CIT International Conference. Back in 2014, he led a Refugee Mentoring Project from his church in collaboration with the Lutheran Family Services and the Denver Rescue Mission. He has over 2 decades of experience in Sales & Marketing in India and the U.S. He lives in Morrison, Colorado with his wife of 40 years.

Cynthia McKnight

Pastor Cynthia McKnight is a devoted advocate for mental health and well-being initiatives within faith communities, serving as NAMI's FaithNet Manager. With a passion for fostering community engagement, Cynthia leads training sessions, facilitates stakeholder meetings, and supervises grantee sessions, all aimed at advancing mental health awareness and support. Drawing upon her educational background from Hinds College and DeVry University, Cynthia brings a wealth of expertise in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, as well as Mental Health advocacy. Her robust skill set, coupled with exemplary communication and organizational abilities, enables her to navigate complex challenges and achieve impactful outcomes. Guided by her unwavering faith and commitment to transcending barriers, Cynthia is an inspirational force, empowering individuals to embrace their divine calling and live lives of purpose and passion. As the visionary Founder of Revolving Hearts Outreach Ministries, she utilizes her gifts in writing, intercession, preaching, and teaching the Gospel to uplift and inspire countless lives. Cynthia's radical and authentic ministry approach resonates across diverse demographics, facilitating transformative experiences and fostering healing and restoration. Her recent publication, "Ladies’ In Waiting" (Sister Fix Your Crown), exemplifies her dedication to empowering women through testimonies of faith, mental and emotional health, and perseverance. With a heart for service and a commitment to making a difference, Cynthia McKnight continues to shine as a beacon of hope within the Christian community and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on all who encounter her ministry.

Details Coming Soon!

Creating a Culture of Care; Prioritizing Employee Wellness in the Workplace

Kristen Rasmussen

Kristen Rasmussen has more than 35 years of experience in the behavioral health field, with a decade of service at ICAN. Currently, Rasmussen holds the position of Chief Clinical Officer at ICAN, a nonprofit provider of innovative home and community-based interventions in Upstate New York. Rasmussen earned a Bachelor of Science in Cultural & Women’s Studies from SUNY Empire State College. Additionally, she holds a Master of Social Work degree from Syracuse University. Rasmussen began her work with ICAN twenty-one years ago as an Independent Contractor. She joined the Executive Team ten years ago. Rasmussen is a trauma-focused mental health practitioner who embraces the intersection of trauma, social justice, and equity throughout her work. Rasmussen sees deep wells of value in combining traditional and non-traditional methodologies in her service to others. Since 1998, she has led workshops and training on various mental health, behavioral health and wellness topics. She has presented at numerous professional conferences, colleges, and community organizations. As a strong advocate for wellness in the workplace, she also facilitates yoga, breath work, and meditation sessions with the staff. Her efforts have played a significant role in positively impacting the organization’s culture. Kristen leads ICAN’s Inclusion Coalition. The organizations Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging coalition that guides the initiatives and policies to ensure that ICAN remains an employer and service provider that values racial, gender and ability diversity. Kristen and her partner Kent live in Utica, NY. They have three children, Britt, Emma, and Lukäs, and a grandson, Quinn.

Jeremy Butler

Butler has spent more than 25 years working in the behavioral health field. In his current role, as Chief Innovation Officer, he oversees the agency’s Independent Practice Association (ICAN IPA), Elevate CNY Sports Complex, Community Education and Training Department, and School-Based Services. He has spent the bulk of his career building high performing teams. He has designed, developed, and delivered hundreds of trainings at the local, state, and national level. He is a certified trainer in a variety of training disciplines ranging from Cornell University’s Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, Mental Health First Aid for Youth, Wyman’s Teen Outreach Program (TOP), PBIS, Peer Mediation, to Screening of Persons through Observational Techniques (SPOT) through LSU, among many others. Butler earned a bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Syracuse University. He is the current Co-Chair of the NYS Children’s Behavioral Health Coalition’s School-Based Mental Health Coalition, the MV Regional Youth Justice Team and a former past President of the Oneida County Youth Services Council. In addition to running his own training and consulting business, Butler is also an Event Specialist for Grand Dynamics International (GDI), helping to lead the design, delivery and implementation of EPIC Leadership Development Experiences from coast to coast for some of the most prestigious companies in the world. Butler has a passion for the outdoors and has spent 20+ years providing Adventure Based learning and Leadership Development for groups on various High Ropes Challenge Courses located throughout the Adirondack Mountain Region in upstate New York.

In this interactive discussion, participants will learn about innovative ways to prioritize workplace wellness, to help staff achieve a strong work-life balance. We will explore ways to incorporate DEIB-Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, into existing workplace culture to create environments where staff feel valued, seen and heard which in turn empowers them to have more to give to clients. We will offer practical ways to think differently and transform culture for stronger outcomes.

Creating Access In Mental Health Deserts

David Kendrick

David Kendrick Jr is a Purple Heart Veteran from New York who has taken his experience in the military to speak and inspire others. “In Iraq I was severely injured and my life was changed forever,” Kendrick Jr. recalls. After losing friends, and going through a long recovery himself, David Kendrick Jr. saw it as his duty to be a Mental Health advocate for others. This would have David speaking across the country opening up, being vulnerable, and educating others on his story, the importance of Mental Health, and more.

Creating access to care for people living in mental health deserts. Just like a food desert (an area that has limited access to affordable and nutritious food), we have mental health deserts in America. A mental health desert means there is a large area where people have limited access to affordable and mentally nutritious services. In my session, I want to teach people how to advocate for access to mental health care in their remote communities.

Crisis Intervention: Explore the Memphis Model with CIT Maine

Hannah Longley

Hannah is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience in community mental health and crisis services. She has many years working in crisis response, initially as a crisis worker, then as the clinical manager for the crisis services for Kennebec and Somerset Counties. In this work, she worked collaboratively with community providers and first responders in planning and responding to the community. During this time, she also provided mental health support for first responders. Hannah was then contracted as a Psychological Health Coordinator with the Maine Army National Guard before coming to NAMI Maine. Her work includes working with first responders and regional councils across the state in the implementation of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), Mental Health First Aid, and programming involving the mental health of first responders and veterans, as well as the lead regarding advocacy initiatives. Hannah is a member of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation and a nationally approved instructor for Critical Incident Stress Management for individuals and groups. Hannah was awarded the Maine Chiefs of Police Outstanding Contribution to Law Enforcement in 2022, the James Durant Civilian Recognition Award by the Maine Association of Police in 2023, and the Sam Cochran Criminal Justice Award at NAMICon 2023.

CIT International discusses the 5-legged stool of the Memphis Model, however oftentimes times the primary focus of work is on police officer training. Critical components of a successful program also include community collaboration, a vibrant and accessible crisis system, behavioral health staff training, and family, consumers, and advocates collaborate and educate. CIT Maine has built a solid foundation with data and collaborations for individuals and communities.

Echoes of Transformation: Going from Patient to Provider

Paris Scobie

Paris Scobie is Host of the top 1.5% globally ranked podcast, Live Well Bipolar, Author of Crooked Illness: Lessons From Inside & Outside Hospital Walls and Speaker for NAMI Valley of the Sun. She shares how she went from being a patient struggling from inside the walls of a psychiatric hospital newly diagnosed with bipolar to returning to work at this same hospital years later. This unique perspective of being both a patient and provider has allowed Paris to share her experiences on what truly made a difference for her to help others. Paris received her BA in Psychology from The University of Arizona and her MBA in Healthcare Administration from Western Governors University. Today, Paris uses her platform to highlight the stories of her guests who inspire hope in her day after day. After conducting over 200 interviews on her podcast, Paris has seen the great power that lies in each of our stories. They hold the power to eliminate stigma for ourselves and others while featuring resources that are impactful. Through storytelling, Paris illustrates how each conversation demonstrates the value our lives hold through the strength of community. Paris works to illustrate how everything she told herself she could never have or be is everything she has become today. Stay connected with Paris and her work here: https://www.instagram.com/livewellbipolar/

My session is focused on the 3 biggest lessons I learned going from being a patient when I was hospitalized at 19, struggling tremendously with my mental health, to returning to work at this same facility 4 years later. These 3 lessons are: the power of our thoughts, the role of cultivating support networks and the importance of tracking habits. I will expand on the powerful lessons I learned being on both sides – as a patient in the system and as a dedicated worker striving to make an impact.

How The Digital World Potentially Reinforces Insecure Attachment in Relationships

Barbara Nosal

Coming Soon!

Dr. Grant is an internationally recognized and award-winning media psychologist, author, published researcher, Doctoral Addictions Counselor, speaker, educator with specific expertise in technology's impact on mental health, and National Advisor of Healthy Device Management for Newport Healthcare. He is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association (APA), served as the 2022 President of the APA Division 46 (The Society for Media Psychology & Technology), currently serves as a Division 46 Executive Board Member At Large, Chair of the APA (D46) “Device Management & Intelligence” committee, is an APA Advocacy Division Partner Liaison, APA Science Partner, and also Treasurer of the California Psychological Association Division VI (Media Technology and Communication). Current projects include an international publisher commissioned “Healthy Device Management and Practices of Good Digital Citizenship” guidebook and companion curriculum/group process workbook designed specifically for clinicians, treatment programs, educators, and professionals, serving as Chapter Leader, Co-Editor, and contributing author in collaboration with a cohort of global experts on a series of white papers to be published in a special handbook by Springer Publishing (in partnership with Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development) a paper recently published in the international journal Addictive Behaviors, as a chapter author on the beliefs, behaviors, influences, and impacts of device-centric engagement for two different academic handbooks with specific focus on media psychology and science, and working with the “Youth Services Committee” of the National Association of Behavioral Healthcare on the creation, development, and launch of their new national “Youth Services Cyberhealth” campaign.

The possible unfavorable influence of a caregiver's device engagement on attachment style is the basis for a research investigation currently being conducted by the session presenters. These two globally-recognized experts in healthy device management, attachment, family systems, and adolescent treatment will discuss this issue, their research study, and offer recommendations to help avoid the potential negative impact of a caregiver's device use on attachment bonding with their children

Body Empowerment Project: Preventing Eating Disorders in BIPOC Youth

Clara Pritchett

Clara Pritchett, an impassioned advocate for social justice and mental health, serves as the Executive Director at Body Empowerment Project. Leading a team of 40 volunteers, she spearheads eating disorder prevention efforts and oversees daily operations, guided by her dedication to body liberation and social equity. Beyond her role at Body Empowerment Project, Clara advises the National Alliance on Mental Illness Next Gen Board, leveraging her expertise to propel mental health initiatives forward. A Brown University alumna with a degree in Africana Studies, Clara's academic background enriches her work. At Brown, she crafted and taught a course on "Diet Culture and Fatphobia in the US," and her thesis, "It is a War on the Body: The Racial Construction of the American Obesity Epidemic," earned honors. With a robust history in volunteer management, fundraising, and curriculum design, Clara authored the BEP curriculum and contributed to organizations like NAAFA and Direct Action for Rights and Equality. A Philadelphia native, Clara is deeply rooted in her community, actively addressing mental health, body liberation, and systemic racism within the public school system. Her advocacy and expertise continually drive progress in the realms of mental health and social justice.

Learn about the work of Body Empowerment Project, a Philadelphia based nonprofit with the mission of reducing eating disorder risk and giving adolescents the skills to live peacefully and healthfully in their bodies specifically in populations that lack access to care, from their executive director Clara Pritchett. Get an overview of the eating disorder care landscape, why prevention is so important, and get a taste of the activities students are doing in Body Empowerment Project workshops each week.

Roadmap to Change: How NAMI Kansas is Impacting the Criminal Justice System

Brittany Harmes

Dr. Harmes began her role as the Project Director of NAMI Kansas’s Justice Involved Project in December 2021. This project places NAMI signature programs inside of local county jails and state correctional facilities. In this role, she is responsible for the coordination, implementation, and expansion of this project. In 2019, Dr. Brest received her PhD from WSU in Community Psychology with an emphasis on mental health and trauma. Prior to her current role, she previously worked for the Kansas Department of Corrections as a parole officer for two years and within the El Dorado Correctional Facility. Dr. Harmes has also previously worked on a research team where she focused on evaluations with mental health organizations and work with Consumer Run Organizations.

Itzel Moya is a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) in the state of Kansas and obtained her Masters of Social Work through Fort Hays State University in 2021. She is the director of the Assisted Outpatient Treatment Project for NAMI Kansas. In this role, Itzel is responsible for networking with the counties involved and providing education regarding NAMI signature programs. She is an advocate for bringing more mental health resources to Western Kansas, a primarily rural area. Itzel is also an advocate for mental health education in the Latinx/ Hispanic communities. She was one of the founding members for the NAMI Southwest Kansas affiliate and is currently the Chair of the NAMI Southwest Kansas affiliate.

Becca Lane is the National Peer Education Programs Manager at NAMI National. She manages NAMI Signature Education Programs, NAMI Peer-to-Peer and NAMI In Our Own Voice. She Becca joined NAMI National a year ago after spending six years on at the affiliate level with NAMI Philadelphia. She held numerous positions during her tenure at NAMI Philadelphia including NAMI Ending the Silence Coordinator, Youth & Young Adult Education & Outreach Manager, and Education and Advocacy Manager. Becca is a subject matter expert in her own experiences living with a mental health diagnosis and has brought a wealth of knowledge in growing NAMI programs in Philadelphia from the ground up. She also has many years of experience in publicity and journalism on both a local and national level. As both a publicist and a journalist, one of the primary skills she has developed is how to shape a narrative to the reach the largest possible audience.

Participants will learn about two NAMI Kansas projects: Assisted Outpatient Treatment and the Justice Involved Person Project that are placed in courts, jails, and state prisons. The impact, success, and lessons learned from these projects alongside how NAMI Kansas has adapted signature programming for correctional settings will be discussed. Finally individuals will hear from Becca Lane at National on how to work with National on these adaptations and what fidelity looks like for these programs

Telling Your Story Through Drawing Comics: A Guided Workshop

Jeannie Mecorney

Jeannie Mecorney spent 25+ years as a graphic designer in film, print, television, and the Web. She became a professor teaching digital art and publication design and created a graphic design degree at Cañada College in Redwood City, California. Currently she is creating a graphic memoir describing her childhood in the 1950s, growing up with a father diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, a codependent mother, and a lack of resources for her father and family.* The process of drawing her trauma allowed her to break through denial and work on lifelong failed strategies learned in childhood. Adapting her drawings as zines** she shared her story at the 33rd Annual Boston International Trauma Conference in 2022. That same year she presented her work at the Graphic Medicine Annual Conference at the University of Chicago where she described the importance of understanding past painful experiences through drawing. Creating these short comic zines has proved to be an invaluable process towards the larger memoir project. She has exhibited at several Zine Festivals including the San Francisco Annual Zine Festival. Her easy and fun workshop will show you how to create a short comic zine from a single piece of paper. Attendees do not have to be artists! * http://www.mecorney.com/memoirmecorney.mov

Graphic Medicine can be explained as the intersection between the medium of comics and the discourse of healthcare. These stories in book or short zine format create reader empathy through heartfelt, intimate drawings. As visual creatures we are moved by pictures and images. I believe in the importance of story and that we are all able to draw our stories. Join me for a look at current graphic medicine novels and create your own short [8 page] personal zine from a single piece of paper.

The Impact of Mental Health Conditions and Suicide on Executives

Michael Ortoll

Mike has spent 40 years in the insurance industry on the carrier and brokerage side, advising large firms on managing risks. He is a partner at BRP Group and CEO at iPEO Solutions.

Mike is the founder of Christine Ortoll Charity (COC), in honor of his daughter, who passed away from a fentanyl overdose in 2020. COC is a 501C3 produces media to inspire and provide hope for those affected by mental health and/ or substance abuse.

Our first production is a feature documentary called "One Second at a Time: Battling the Monster of Addiction" which is a story of his daughter's struggle with mental health and substance abuse for ten years. It is told via Christine's journals she left behind following her overdose, experts and loved ones. To date, it has won 59 film festivals as one of the most impactful feature documentaries   of the year. This will be available via major streaming platforms by summer 2024. 

Mike also began a national initiative to develop recovery programs at every college in the US, as students between 18-25 are one of the highest at-risk groups. He produced a mini doc, called "Safety Net: Helping College Students in Recovery Thrive" which showcases the successful recovery community, called LIFT,  he helped build at his alma mater, Florida State University.

He lives in Tampa with his wife Laureen and has a son, Michael and two stepdaughters, Jordan, and Hannah.

Mike is a Miami native with strong ties to the Cuban/ Latino community. 

 He is an active speaker in the commercial  insurance industry and an activist for mental health / substance use disorders. 

Nicholas Abid

Mental Health issues can impact anyone no matter what your station in life: 3 Senior Executives from major corporations will share their lived experiences with mental health issues , depression and suicide. One speaker will describe his first hand experience with psychotic depression. The other two will discuss the deaths of an immediate family member and their struggles to understand and live with the tragedy of losing a loved one.

Mike Radu has seen the healthcare industry from many sides: from payer to provider to regulator. As its CEO, this diverse perspective has given him the ability to shepherd AbsoluteCare to its full potential as an innovator in value-based healthcare for the most vulnerable and chronically-ill individuals many of whom are impacted by behavioral or substance used disorders. Mr. Radu’s payer experience included was Regional President of UnitedHealthcare’s Medicaid and dual Medicare plans; and EVP/President of WellCare’s Medicaid PDP. He also ran business development, clinical operations, and quality/risk adjustment departments for several health plans. Mr. Radu began his career in the provider space, running various value-based medical groups in Arizona. He was part of the founding team and COO of Optum Care, the multi-state medical group and accountable care organization (ACO) for commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid patients under value-based care relationships. He also served as CEO of a regional hospice and palliative care organization. Mike’s policy background includes running a lobbying/government affairs organization for UnitedHealthcare and serving as Senior Advisor for CMS in the Innovation office, working for ACO programs. Mike graduated from UCLA with a BA in Psychology and from USC with an Master’s in Business Administration.

John Kissinger

"i never liked lasagna": navigating the layers of eating disorders.

Risha Hegde

Meet Risha Hegde, a dedicated premedical student hailing from the state Georgia. With an academic journey centered around the complexities of the human mind, Risha majored in psychology with a keen focus on neuroscience, delving into the intricate workings of the brain. Passionate about the intersection of psychology and medicine, Risha aspires to become a psychiatrist, blending the realms of science and empathy to enhance mental health care. During their college years at the University of Georgia, Risha served as the president of the NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chapter, demonstrating leadership and commitment to fostering a supportive community for mental health advocacy. Risha is not only an advocate in words but has actively contributed to the cause by founding and leading peer groups dedicated to addressing issues of disordered eating and body image. Through these initiatives, Risha has made a meaningful impact, providing a safe space for individuals to share experiences and support one another on their journeys toward mental well-being. Beyond academic and advocacy pursuits, Risha is a social butterfly who thrives on meeting new people and connecting with fellow mental health advocates everywhere. With a genuine enthusiasm for forging connections, Risha is poised to make a lasting impact on the field of mental health, bringing a unique blend of academic expertise, compassionate leadership, and a deep commitment to promoting psychological well-being.

This session will spotlight eating disorders, body image, and the post-COVID impact. Leading "Body Talks," a peer-led program at the University of Georgia, and serving as the former NAMI chapter president, highlights the transformative impact of open discussions about eating disorders and their stigma. I value unfiltered dialogues when it comes to this subject, and believe presenting facts, ideas and my own experiences at NAMICon will continue the candid conversation to foster support and resilience.

Addressing the Mental Health Myths and Barriers for Men in the Black/African Ancestry Community

Mark Harrison

Mark received my undergraduate degree from Morgan State University with a Bachelor of Science in Communications and a Masters’ Degree in Public Administration, from the University of Maryland College Park and his second Masters’ degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. Prior to college, Mark served in the United States Army in a unit that supported the 82nd Airborne. My passion as a community servant leader, especially in the arena of Black men and boys dealing with mental health issues. Seeing the issues that black boys and men dealing with mental health struggles and several losses of close friend to suicide Mark launched a mental health Advocacy organization named Endangered which birthed the new Name of Three Hundred and Sixty Fifth.Currently, Mark has launched a new initiative with his Fraternity Brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc. (Alexandria Fairfax, Va). A five-part series entitled Healing Our Brothers that is created to provide a safe space for Black men to have a non-judgmental open dialogue to address barriers and trauma associated with Mental Health and Wellness while providing resources and tools for support and healing. His passion for mental health has offered him the opportunity to speak locally and nationally on several platforms to include radio and print.Mark lives by the motto by one of his famous artist “Jay Z” In order to heal – you must first reveal!

Goal is to start conversations about mental health in African American men and develop a tool kit for supportive resources, impactful programs, educational resources, and access to additional support when needed.Evaluate the mental health concerns of men and how it affects us as men in the space; Discuss and share resources that will help other brothers in their walk-in fatherhood centered around building the family and assisting in maintaining relationships.

Cultivating Resilient Thriving in Ourselves and Others.

David Palmer

Dr. David Palmer is a champion for dynamically diverse students, blending three decades of expertise in special education with personal insights from his own journey with ADHD. As the driving force behind Inclusion Matters Education Services (IMES), he champions the unique strengths of neurodivergent learners, pushing beyond traditional support to celebrate their potential. An award-winning researcher and certified ADHD, ASD, and Trauma professional and educator, Dr. Palmer's approach is deeply rooted in empathy and a commitment to inclusivity. His advocacy is personal, shaped by his role as a father to six, five of whom are neurodivergent teens, offering him a firsthand understanding of the nuances of neurodiversity. This intimate perspective makes Dr. Palmer not just an expert but a trusted guide for families, educators, therapists, and community leaders on similar journeys. Dr. Palmer's vision extends far beyond his professional achievements; he envisions a world where dynamically diverse individuals are empowered to leverage their unique talents and abilities to fulfill their passions and live their purpose. His commitment to this cause is evident in his dedication to family and students, his enjoyment playing guitar, unquenchable thirst for learning, and love of telling dad jokes. At NAMICon 2024, Dr. Palmer will share his transformative insights and strategies for fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates every individual's capabilities while cultivating thriving resilience. His session is a source of inspiration and a practical guide for creating a world where dynamically diverse children are seen, valued, encouraged, and prepared contributors in all aspects of life.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the challenges of supporting others who are neurodevelopmentally diverse (neurodivergent, trauma-impacted, or navigating mental-health challenges), while struggling to balance their needs with your own well-being and sense of purpose? Explore the Resilient SEQUOIA Model to support others while cultivating your well-being. Learn key strategies for understanding, empathy, and practical support, transforming life into a journey of growth, resilience, and thriving.

Cultivating Youth Leadership: Mental Health Programs on Campus

Amanda Wilson-Eck

Amanda Wilson-Eck has been with NAMI-OC since 2020. She began her work as a program coordinator for Transitional Aged Youth programs and has since become the Youth Programs Manager. Amanda has worked closely with Orange County transitional-aged youth to give them a platform to share their unique journeys and educate young adults to support their mental well-being.

Austin Messick

Austin Messick has been with NAMI-OC since 2019. He started as a volunteer after a mental health challenge and has worked his way up to the Associate Director of Programs role overseeing all classes, support groups, presentations, programs for Transitional Age Youth (TAY), CIT for first responders and NAMI-OC's innovative programs. Austin has experience with mental health as a family member and peer. He is a certified In Our Own Voice speaker and Peer-to-Peer teacher.

Sharing the innovative programs offered to teens & young adults at NAMI Orange County that can be adapted for any NAMI affiliate. Programs include NAMI on Campus Clubs, “Happy Hour” self-care nights, Honest Hour webinars, and our Anxiety Sucks podcast. These programs empower TAY to take charge of their mental health and share their experiences. We will also discuss how we partner with local high schools to offer Ending the Silence.

Empowering Wellness Through Support

Kimberly Comer

Kimberly Comer is the President and Co-Founder of Ceeport Health LLC., a mental health peer support organization headquartered in Vero Beach, Florida. Kimberly is a Nationally Certified Peer Specialist (NCPS), Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS) with the State of Florida, a Copeland Institute certified Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) trainer and is certified to teach as well as facilitate all of the peer and many of the family signature classes in addition to the support groups developed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Kimberly is a NAMI Florida Board Member as well as the NAMI Florida Peer Leadership Council Representative and a Mental Health Court Advocate. She has delivered presentations on the impact of peer support in mental health recovery at National Conferences throughout the US. She has been actively involved in advocating for mental healthcare reform in the states of Illinois, Indiana, and Florida, as well as on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Prior to her relocation to Florida, Ms. Comer was the Executive Director of NAMI Greater Indianapolis and served on the board of directors for NAMI Indiana - the NAMI state organization.

Diane Banks

Diane Banks is originally from Charlottesville, VA and currently lives in El Paso, TX where she proudly serves as the Chair for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Peer Leadership Council. She also serves as the NAMI Texas National Peer Representative, where she was the NAMI Texas State Peer Representative for over six years. She has amplified the Peer voice ensuring that people with lived experience of a mental health condition are able to have access to resources to improve their quality of life. As an 18-year Army Veteran she also serves on the NAMI National Service Member, Veteran, & Family Council (SMVFC) where she works tirelessly to provide hope to Veterans, active-duty personnel, and family members of those who served or are serving. Diane is one of the chosen contributors to NAMIs first book, “You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health”. She is a Certified Mental Health Peer Support Specialist who is trained in various NAMI Signature Programs, Initiatives and Trainings. As founder of Monarch Mental Wellness, LLC. she uses her platform as a mental wellness strategist to instill hope and transform lives. Diane holds a Master of Science Degree in Forensic Psychology and is currently working on finishing her dissertation from Walden University to complete her doctoral degree in Forensic Psychology. She is a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success and a lifetime member of Psi Chi, The International Honor Society in Psychology. Diane’s purpose and passion is to improve the lives of all peers to include people of color, and those impacted or involved in the Criminal Justice System.

This session focuses on how to utilize the know that we have as peers to facilitate our own wellness as peers. There will be an emphasis on staying well while working in the field as a peer in the mental health field..

Finding Your Happiest Place Within with Karena Dawn

Karena Dawn

Karena Dawn, mental health advocate and co-founder of Tone It Up, the leading women’s fitness community, is a wellness entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author, NAMI board advisor, and founder of the mental health charitable foundation, The Big Silence Foundation. For more than a decade Karena Dawn has empowered millions of women around the world to live their healthiest and happiest lives. Her lifelong passion for fitness, mindfulness, and spiritual empowerment has made her a leader in the wellness space. Dawn has been featured in Forbes for creating a “fitness empire” and on the Create & Cultivate 100 List honoring women who are masters in their field. She has also headlined the POPSUGAR Play/Ground Festival and has been a keynote speaker at the PoWer Up Women’s Conference. She is a mindful meditation coach for Chopra Global, and a regularly featured speaker and instructor for TED Women, and other national platforms. More info, copy & paste the media kit: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HdfXKhrG6mDlp77XbSC7RhLqBZVWIQ6A/view?usp=drive_link

Join Karena Dawn, founder of Tone It Up, the leading fitness and lifestyle brand, and of The Big Silence mental health foundation, for a revitalizing experience that will awaken your body and mind. Karena shares practices and tools to guide and inspire you to turn your challenges into triumphs. Through fun, meditation, movement, and an inspirational and educational mental health discussion, she will motivate you to feel confident, empowered, fulfilled, and excited about life’s journey.

Health Care, Not Handcuffs: Shaping the Future of Crisis Response Workforce

Leah G. Pope, Ph.D., is a Research Scientist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute and an Assistant Professor of Clinical Behavioral Medicine in the Columbia University Department of Psychiatry (Division of Behavioral Health Services and Policy Research). Trained as an anthropologist, Dr. Pope has extensive experience conducting mixed methods research in public mental health and criminal justice. Dr. Pope’s research has been funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Science Foundation, and private foundations including the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the van Ameringen Foundation, the Wenner Gren Foundation and the Sozosei Foundation. Dr. Pope's current work focuses primarily on crisis response, with research projects on the implementation of the 988 crisis line in New York State, the development of the crisis response workforce, and a randomized controlled trial of Crisis Intervention Team training for police officers.

Dr. Amy Watson is a Professor at the Wayne State University School of Social Work. For the past two decades, her research has focused on police encounters with persons with mental illnesses and the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model. Dr. Watson has also conducted research and provided consultation to programs serving persons with mental illnesses with criminal legal system involvement. These include CIT programs, mental health courts, and prison reentry programs. Her current work is focused on developing crisis services and reducing the role of law enforcement in crisis response. This includes NAMI funded work focused on crisis response workforce development, evaluation of 988 and mobile crisis team implementation, and analysis of 911 calls that could be diverted to non-police responders. She is currently the President of the Board of Directors of Crisis Response Programs and Training. Previously, she served on the CIT International Board of Directors from 2016-2021, as President of the Board 2020-2021. Earlier in her career, she worked as a probation officer on a team serving clients with serious mental illnesses and as a Forensic Social Worker/Mitigation Specialist working on death penalty cases. She has a BA in Criminal Justice from Aurora University and an AM and PhD from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration.

Michael Compton

Michael T. Compton, M.D., M.P.H. is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, in the Division of Behavioral Health Services and Policy Research. He is also a Research Psychiatrist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, which is part of the New York State Office of Mental Health. Dr. Compton is triple-boarded in psychiatry, preventive medicine, and lifestyle medicine. He has maintained continuous NIMH research funding for more than 20 years, conducting research on first-episode psychosis, the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model of collaboration between law enforcement and mental health, and several other areas. His research has led to more than 250 publications. He is also very interested in incorporating public health and prevention into psychiatry, one means of which is by addressing the social determinants of health. His books include a manual for police officers responding to persons with mental illnesses, a guide for patients with first-episode psychosis and their family members, a textbook on the complex connection between marijuana and schizophrenia, and six American Psychiatric Association books: The Clinical Manual of Prevention in Mental Health (2009); The Social Determinants of Mental Health (2015), Marijuana and Mental Health (2016), The American Opioid Epidemic: From Patient Care to Public Health (2019), Struggle and Solidarity: Seven Stories of How Americans Fought for Their Mental Health through Federal Legislation (2023), and Entangled: How People with Mental Illnesses Get Caught Up in Misdemeanor Systems and Pathways to Reform (forthcoming).

Providing health care, not handcuffs, when a person is experiencing a mental health crisis requires a workforce prepared to do this crucial work without relying on law enforcement unless significant safety or criminal concerns are present. This session will highlight NAMI-funded work being done to lay the foundations for this workforce and elaborate the steps for establishing it as a new professional role—that of the Certified Community Behavioral Health Crisis Responder (CBHCR).

InsideU: Social Emotional Learning with Disney & Pixar's Inside Out

Jack Kim is the Executive Director of NAMI Boulder County, where he finds endless inspiration through the caring and supportive community of NAMI members and volunteers. Jack has spent nearly thirty years in education and work that supports families, including two decades teaching at a progressive school in Boulder, Colorado that fosters whole-child development, with focus on creating meaningful learning experiences in support of independent critical thinking, emotional well-being, and social emotional learning. Jack is thrilled to support and share the new learning opportunities made available through the InsideU learning app. He knows this will make a world of difference in the lives of all children and families who have the opportunity to experience and learn through it.

Dr. Sam Hubley is an Assistant Research Professor at the Renée Crown Wellness Institute and the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Colorado Boulder. His research focuses on novel delivery methods of evidence-based psychological treatments and art-based approaches to mental health and wellness education.

Morgan Johnson

Morgan Johnson is a third-year student at the University of Colorado, Boulder in the College of Arts and Sciences majoring in Neuroscience and Psychology. Morgan also is an active undergraduate research fellow with the Renee Crown Wellness Institute where she participates in various research plans with a focus on community engagement through wellness.

Marie Olivett

Marie Olivett, LCSW, LAC, is the Director of Mental Health Programming at the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Denver. Prior to joining BGCMD, Marie worked with justice involved youth, and she has experience in private practice and school settings. She is especially passionate about working with youth who may be under resourced or who have experienced trauma, and loves thinking outside the box to find meaningful ways to connect, such as through animal assisted therapy. When she's not at work, you can probably find Marie on an adventure traveling or outside with her family, friends, and dog.

This session presents a novel collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios to adapt their film Inside Out into a social emotional learning program called InsideU. InsideU is a cost-free, web-based application designed for 6–12 year-olds that includes online learning modules on emotional awareness and regulation. InsideU uses the model of Entertainment Education and includes a series of episodes that are interactive, choose your-own-adventure stories. A panelist QnA will follow the presentation.

The Intersection of Law & Medicine: The Innovative Collaboration of Forensic Psychiatry and Jail Diversion

Patricia Ortiz

Patricia Ortiz, M.D. is an Assistant Professor in the TTUHSC El Paso Department of Psychiatry, the Psychiatry Clerkship Director for the TTUHSC Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, and the Academic Medical Director for Emergence Health Network (Local Mental Health Authority) through their partnership with TTUHSC El Paso. She supervises medical students, psychiatry residents, and child and adolescent psychiatry fellows in various clinical and forensic settings. In addition, she is planning to establish a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship training program at TTUHSC El Paso beginning July 2025, and has partnered with the El Paso County Attorney’s Office to increase services to justice-involved individuals with mental illness. She was elected to the NAMI El Paso Board of Directors in February 2024. Dr. Ortiz received her medical training at the TTUHSC Paul L. Foster School of Medicine in her hometown, El Paso, TX. She completed her psychiatry residency in Washington, D.C. at The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, followed by a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, MD. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult and Forensic Psychiatry. She returned home to join the Texas Tech Department of Psychiatry faculty as an Assistant Professor in 2020. Her main interests include adult and juvenile forensic psychiatry, women’s mental health, community psychiatry, and medical education.

Daniela Chisolm

Assistant County Attorney, Daniela Chisolm, is a Senior Trial Attorney in the Mental HealthLitigation Unit at the El Paso County Attorney’s Office. Chisolm represents the State of Texas inthe civil court commitment processes. Chisolm is a former defense attorney for those individualsin the court commitment process. She has a unique perspective of being on both sides of thecivil commitment laws creating in depth insight to the systemic barriers for both sides in themental health system. Chisolm serves as the Vice President on the Board of Directors for NAMIEl Paso. Chisolm is passionate about mental health and is a family member of an individualsuffering from a severe mental illness.

Coalitions have the power to span gaps, scale up excellent practice and amplify diverse voices. Learn from the Advancing Behavioral Health Initiative, an 8-year collaboration between 10 local coalitions and the Medical College of Wisconsin. Learn how a state coalition, the Mental Health Action Partnership leverages local coalition experience to gather diverse stakeholders in a learning community, achieve consensus on policy goals, and promote ongoing system improvement. Explore NAMI’s role.

The Wellness Waterfall: Improve workplace outcomes through sustainable leadership and wellness practices.

Dr. Jenna Sage currently serves as Director of Organizational Wellness and Wellbeing for a large allied healthcare institution. She is a noted author, speaker and dedicated nearly 25 years of career to public education and working with students with emotional behavioral disorders and trauma histories. Today this work evolved into leading strategic wellness programming and organizational culture change to produce workplace thriving.

Lindsay England

Lindsay England is the Vice President, Office of Transformation at Ultimate Medical Academy with responsibility over the Curriculum function, Enterprise Project Management Office, and Program Implementation team. In her role, Lindsay works cross-functionally to support strategic initiatives and organizational growth, and to ensure successful outcomes for those that UMA serves. Lindsay has been with UMA since 2012 and has operated in numerous roles within the organization throughout her tenure. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of South Florida and a Master of Science in Applied Organizational Psychology from the University of Southern California.

In this session, participants will be exposed to the simile of the Wellness Waterfall and its potential impact on organizational key indicators like retention, engagement, and satisfaction including industry trends. The Wellness Waterfall is influenced by skills (learning and development), will (self-care and self-regulation), and fills (reward and recognition) which influence healthy and sustained behavior change at the individual and organizational levels.

What's Happening Now in DC? Federal Mental Health Policy in 2024 and Beyond

Hannah Wesolowski

Hannah Wesolowski serves as NAMI National’s Chief Advocacy Officer. She leads NAMI’s Government Relations, Policy & Advocacy team, which develops NAMI’s policy positions, advances NAMI’s federal priorities and supports the policy work of NAMI’s Alliance at the state and local level. Hannah and her team work with NAMI’s advocates nationwide and with partners and policymakers to enact policies that will improve the lives of all people affected by mental health conditions. Hannah serves as a member of NAMI’s Executive Team and is a frequent NAMI spokesperson to the media on mental health policy topics. She serves on the Executive Committee of Friends of NIMH and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Public Affairs Council and the American Brain Coalition. Before her current role, she served as NAMI’s Director of Field Advocacy for more than four years. Before joining NAMI, Hannah worked at the Public Affairs Council, providing support to leading associations and nonprofit advocacy groups to build grassroots advocacy programs. She also previously led political advocacy efforts at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and developed engagement efforts at the American Institute of Architects. Hannah graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from New York University, where she also earned a Master of Public Administration degree.

A perennial NAMI-Con favorite, during this session NAMI National staff will provide a recap of major federal developments in mental health policy and how NAMI is continuing to set the tone with federal policy makers. We will also examine the upcoming elections and what that may mean for mental health in 2025.

Beyond the Battlefield: Unveiling Unique Challenges in Veterans' Mental Health

Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion on the unique needs of veterans' mental health. This session aims to shed light on the profound challenges faced by veterans as they navigate the complexities of mental health post-service. Our panel of experts will discuss the hurdles veterans encounter, including PTSD, transition stress, and the stigma surrounding mental health care in military culture. Through personal insights, research, and practical strategies, we'll explore innovative approaches to support and empower veterans on their path to healing.

Opening Plenary

Affect, othering, and value-based markers of schizophrenia lived experiences: building meaningful, respectful, jedi-oriented relationships.

Nadika Paranamana, Psy.D.

Nadika Paranamana, Psy.D., is a Postdoctoral Fellow at Yale University School of Medicine and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Connecticut Healthcare System. Dr. Paranamana’s work is grounded in humanistic-existential framework and is centered on justice, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging of marginalized, disenfranchised, and historically disadvantaged people and communities. She is a qualitative researcher dedicated to investigating lived experiences. Clinically, her work focuses on serious mental illnesses, especially psychosis and the schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Dr. Paranamana received her doctorate in clinical psychology from University of Hartford and serves as Chair of the Ethnic Diversity Task Force (EDTF) at the Connecticut Psychological Association.

Based on findings from a 2023 phenomenological study on affectivity in schizophrenia, this session offers important insights and language for caregivers and providers about the concepts of "affective proximity," "experiences of othering" and "value-based markers of being in the world" to help develop meaningful, and justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI)-oriented relationships with persons diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Barriers Before & After Incarceration: The Impact on My Mental Health and Society Reintegration

Felishia McPherson

Felishia McPherson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who began her career as a Certified Peer Support Specialist with over a three decades of lived experience in the areas of childhood trauma, domestic violence and former justice involvement. Felishia’s daily mantra is #PowerPower as she strives to be the “living proof” to empower those navigating the obstacles of re-entry and mental wellness with support and community resources.

The session is about the lived experience of 3 formerly incarcerated peers and the impact it had on their mental health. To include discussion on barriers that were present & the impact they had on the peers state of mental wellness. Also including tools and resources that have been gained from NAMI that would have been beneficial on their journey to recovery/mental wellness. Discussion includes their lived experience testimony of tools such as Competency Hearings & Restoration.

Helping People in Crisis: From 988 to a Crisis Continuum of Care

Margie Balfour

Dr. Margie Balfour is a psychiatrist and national leader in crisis care, quality improvement, and law enforcement responses to behavioral health emergencies. She is Chief of Quality & Clinical Innovation at Connections Health Solutions and an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona. Dr. Balfour was named Doctor of the Year by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing for her leadership at the Crisis Response Center in Tucson, Arizona, and received the Sam Cochran Criminal Justice award from the National Alliance on Mental Illness for her work to help law enforcement better serve people with behavioral health needs. She co-authored Roadmap to the Ideal Crisis System: Essential Elements, Measurable Standards, and Best Practices, and her work on crisis outcome measurement has been cited as a national standard. Dr. Balfour is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and serves on the APA Council on Quality of Care. She has also served on the boards of the American Association for Community Psychiatry, American Association for Emergency Psychiatry, and numerous expert panels for SAMHSA, the DOJ, and others. A native of Monroe, Louisiana, Dr. Balfour received a BA in Biology at Johns Hopkins University and then her MD and PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Cincinnati. She completed residency and fellowship in Community Psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

This session that will give conference go-ers an overview of NAMI’s priority and vision around 988 and crisis care. 

Mental Health Inequities: An Economic Burden

Nelson Dunlap

Nelson J. Dunlap, J.D. currently serves as the Vice President for Public Policy & External Affairs in the School of Global Health at Meharry Medical College. In this role he helps to lead health policy for the School, all while keeping health equity centered at the core of the mission. As a dedicated health policy advocate, author, and experienced public speaker, Mr. Dunlap has utilized every opportunity in his career to fight on behalf of marginalized communities and push for the advancement of health equity. His commitment to the pursuit of health equity has recently been recognized as he was named to the de Beaumont Foundation’s 40 Under 40 in Public Health. Before joining Meharry, Mr. Dunlap served as the Chief-of-Staff for the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School of Medicine where he helped to lead the government relations and health policy initiatives of the institution. Along with this role, Mr. Dunlap also served as the Senior Advisor for Legislative Affairs for the Health Equity Leadership and Exchange Network. Mr. Dunlap’s passion for shaping the minds of the next generation of learners and leaders, and doing so with an eye towards leveraging the law and the political determinants of health, has afforded him the opportunity to provide numerous speaking engagements and author a number of publications centered around health policy and health disparities. Mr. Dunlap graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and received his Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law.

Caroline Fisher-O'Neill

Presenting on a report entitled The Economic Burden of Mental Health Inequities, This report aims to offer an understanding of the economic impact of our failure of over 165 years since the passage of the Bill for the Benefit of the Indigent Insane to invest in equity-focused behavioral health interventions, services, treatments, supports, and programs. The report included policy recommendations to address political determinant of behavioral health, investments, and culturally centered care.

Workplace Mental Health by the Numbers: NAMI's New Annual Poll

Barb Solish

Barb is passionate about mental health awareness, education, and advocacy, especially after the loss of a friend to suicide. Barb’s lived experience developing a mental health condition as a young person also motivates her work improving outcomes for young people with mental health concerns. Barb oversees NAMI’s youth and young adult initiatives team, which develops resources for kids, teens, young adults,  educators, and caregivers, as well as NAMI’s workplace mental health initiatives, including the StigmaFree Workplace initiative. Barb believes strongly that not only is creating a mentally healthy workplace the right thing to do, it’s an economic imperative.

Prior to joining NAMI, Barb worked with organizations, executives, legislators, and political candidates to hone their strategic messaging. Barb served as the Communications Director and Deputy Manager on former Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak’s first-term campaign, as a strategic communications manager for Los Angeles’ winning bid for the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, and as an advisor to over a dozen congressional candidates at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.

Meg is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Organizational Psychology Professional, and the Director of Workplace Mental Health with NAMI, specializing in burnout and relationships. She has provided education to organizations on topics such as psychological safety, DEI & mental health, burnout, and trauma in the workplace. Currently pursuing her doctorate in Human & Organizational Psychology, Meg is passionate about understanding human behavior in professional settings and working to break down the stigma around mental health. Since joining NAMI last year, her work focuses on partnering with organizations to better understand the needs of their employees, build awareness around mental health at work, help create more caring corporate cultures, and provide the resources needed to be more mentally well.

Join us for an enlightening look at the latest findings from NAMI's new annual workplace mental health polling data. Through a comprehensive survey, NAMI has gathered invaluable insights into the state of mental health within workplaces across various sectors. From understanding the current experience of the American worker to evaluating the knowledge of existing support systems, this presentation promises to offer a nuanced perspective on the intersection of mental health and the workplace.

Discover key trends, emerging patterns, and potential areas for improvement with NAMI’s Workplace Mental Health team. Whether you're an HR professional, a business leader, or an advocate for mental health awareness, this presentation equips you with the knowledge and tools necessary to foster a healthier and more supportive work environment for all.

Questify Your Life: Using Gamification and Positive Psychology for Self-satisfaction

Sierra Grandy

Sierra Grandy is a dynamic public speaker, disability advocate, and recent law school graduate dedicated to promoting mental health and wellness. Drawing from her own journey of mental health recovery, Sierra brings authenticity and insight to her speaking engagements, which have reached over 60 audiences across diverse platforms, including mental health conferences, police intervention trainings, podcasts, and corporate wellness initiatives. In addition to her speaking engagements, Sierra is deeply involved in advocacy work, serving as Minnesota's Representative on NAMI's Peer Leadership Council and as a council member on Minnesota's State Advisory Council on Mental Health. Her commitment to effecting change within the mental health system is fueled by her lived experience and passion for ensuring equitable access to support and resources for all. Sierra's dedication to advocacy is complemented by her academic achievements, having recently graduated from law school with a focus on disability and tax law (strange mix—she knows). Her undergraduate degree is in psychology, which she has continued to self-study as she has continued her education. To achieve her goals, Sierra has created a flexible system that makes quests out of life. Gamification has allowed Sierra to use creative tools to make her life more interactive and fun. She is excited to teach this system to NAMIcon attendees. For more information about Sierra Grandy and her work, please visit SierraGrandy.com.

In this session, Sierra will share her passion for leveraging evidence-based techniques, including gamification and positive psychology, to add a sense of adventure, accomplishment, and fun to everyday life. Stories about how she uses this system in her mental health recovery are a focus of the presentation. Sierra will teach you how to create a personalized "Questify Your Life" system: establish your character, design fulfilling quests, and map your journey.

Reentry Rethought: Leveraging Medicaid for Enhanced Mental Health & Substance Use Support Upon Community Return

Shannon Scully

Shannon Scully is the Director of Justice Policy & Initiatives at NAMI’s national office, where she provides strategic guidance and leadership on the organization’s work at the intersection of mental illness and the criminal justice system. She engages federal agencies and Congress to advance NAMI’s key priorities in the areas of justice reform and crisis response and supports leaders across the NAMI Alliance to advance reforms at the state and local level to reduce justice system impact in the lives of people with mental illness.Prior to joining NAMI, Ms. Scully has worked on a variety of issues to address the impact of the criminal legal and carceral system in disproportionately impacted communities. She began her career advocating for victims of crime in the court system in Cook County, IL. Originally from Minnesota, Ms. Scully lives in the greater DC area with her family.

People with mental health conditions are overrepresented in our nation’s jails and prisons and when people leave incarceration, there are many challenges to successfully reentering their communities. This session will explore new policies that allow Medicaid to cover some services prior to people being released from prison or jail have the potential to improve the health and wellbeing of people with mental health and substance use conditions.

Trauma Awareness: Resources for Professionals Serving Youth

Donielle Prince

Donielle works at NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, as part of the Youth and Young Adult Initiatives team. Donielle manages Trauma Awareness Initiatives, where she is currently creating a virtual training on trauma awareness for youth serving professionals. Donielle has been focused on expanding trauma awareness to organizations and individuals for the past 6 years. Past roles have included counselor for children and adults, and program evaluation researcher addressing topics such as youth development and school-based mental health. Donielle is a San Francisco Bay Area native currently living in Sacramento, California.

NAMI’s Youth and Young Adult Initiatives Hub will provide an exclusive preview of video highlights from NAMI’s new, on-demand, Trauma Awareness Training, scheduled to launch on nami.org in June 2024. Workshop participants will receive resources they can use in their work with young people, including scripts for mindfulness practices and tips tailored by age-group for understanding and engaging youth whose behavior is impacted by traumatic stress.

Putting your oxygen mask on First- Prioritizing Mental Health and wellness in your life to be a better leader.

Christi Venable

Christi Venable is an award-winning Business Owner, Organizational Leadership and Culture Change Expert and Speaker. She’s the founder of SMILE Therapy Services, a multi-milliondollar mental health agency that she managed to build from the ground up. SMILE Therapy Services is committed to providing top-notch mental health services that help people heal and lead happier lives through transformative counseling — one person, one spirit, and one smile at a time. In 2020, Christi was awarded the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Businessperson of the Year for Washington D.C. In 2022, Christi was honored as an Enterprising Women of the Year awardee. In 2022, SMILE Therapy was named one of the fastest growing companies in the United States by INC. 5000, and the honor was granted again as SMILE was recognized by INC 5000 a second year in a row in 2023. As a minority and women owned company, she’s proud to be certified with WBENC, 8a and NMSDC Today, Christi employs a dynamic team of therapists -- all people of color – while continuing to serve individuals, school systems and fortune 500 organizations. As a leadership and culture expert, she’s now helping top leaders improve their culture so they can increase employee wellness, retention and build a happy workforce. No matter the industry, you can count on Christi’s team to weave in leadership training focused on dynamic topics such as emotional intelligence, productivity, and effective communication. SMILE Therapy staff have been leading facilitators in the mental health and wellness arena since its foundation in 2015. Over the years SMILE Therapy has developed an arsenal of workshops that speak to the needs of a diverse market and an ever-changing social climate. Some of the most sought-after topics include Leading with Effective Communication, Leveraging your Leadership Style, Mental Health SpotChecking, Sexual Harassment, Resiliency, Self-Care and Stress Management, The Power of Patience and many more. Christi is a proud member of THE BOW COLLECTIVE, ™ an organization and sisterhood of the Nation's top 1% of small business owners. As "Business Philanthropists" we work together to bring awareness, business opportunities, and capital resources to entrepreneurs. Christi received her undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University and her master’s degree from George Washington University. Christi Venable is a National Certified Counselor, A Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

Women tend to put everyone and everything in their lives first even in the workplace. This workshop will discuss the statistics of women mental health challenges specifically in the workplace, the importance of making mental health a priority in your life and how focusing on your own mental health improves your leadership abilities.

Turning Towards the Sun: Maternal Stories of Hope and Healing After Their Child’s Suicide

Julie Piepenbring

Julie M. Piepenbring, Ph.D., LCSW is an Associate Professor at the College of St. Rose in Albany, New York, and an adjunct professor at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU). She earned her doctorate at Fordham University, and both her BSW and MSW from SCSU. Julie has an extensive clinical practice history and was managing partner of a private practice for ten years. She also has extensive executive leadership experience in nonprofit social service organizations and was Chief Clinical Officer and Executive Vice President for a nonprofit organization. She began teaching in 2012 and since joining St. Rose in 2018 has presented at 24 national and local conferences. Julie co-authored Leadership and Management in Social Work: A competency-based approach (Springer Publishing, 2019), Practicum and Capstone Handbook. 1st Edition (Kendall/Hunt Publishing), and is co-authoring Turning Toward the Sun: Stories of Hope and Healing of Suicide Grief by Mothers (Kendall/Hunt, Innovative Inc. Publishing) due in the spring of 2024.

Laura Albee

Laura J. Albee, DSW, LCSW, BCBA, LBA is a visiting Assistant Professor of Social Work and Equitable Community Practice at the University of Saint Joseph. She has an extensive background working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in community, residential, and academic settings. She chaired Post University’s Pathways Program and served as a part-time social work faculty member at Southern Connecticut State University. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Florida State University, her Master of Arts in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorders from the University of Saint Joseph, and her MSW and Doctor of Social Work from SCSU. She has had publications in Autism Spectrum News and contributed chapters in Dr. Peggy Whitby’s book entitled Cases on Teaching Sexuality Education to Individuals with Autism, and Susan V. Alstyne’s (Ed.), Perspectives and Considerations on Navigating the Mental Health Care System with IGI Global Publishers. Laura is coauthoring Turning Towards the Sun: Stories of Hope and Healing of Suicide Grief by Mothers under Innovative Ink Publishing: Kendall Hunt with an anticipated release slated for April 2024. Laura’s research interests include autism, sexuality, and education, suicide and maternal grief, and posttraumatic growth and resilience. She has presented at numerous conferences around the country speaking about suicide grief and posttraumatic growth. Laura’s son died by suicide in 2015. She has devoted much of her research and clinical work encouraging the bereft and those navigating mental illness to keep hope in their heart.

Mothers mourning children lost to suicide underscore a need to walk out of their darkness and into a transformative light. A beacon that will repurpose their intent and galvanize their willingness to live for another tomorrow. Utilizing case studies participants will explore the maternal narratives of the survived to deepen their understanding about the factors that contribute to posttraumatic growth in the wake of child suicide. Compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma will be emphasized.

Empowering Diversion: Effective Strategies for Justice-Involved Individuals

Aaron Arnold

Aaron Arnold is chief development officer at All Rise (formerly the National Association of Drug Court Professionals), where he works to develop new initiatives to support and strengthen treatment courts across the country. Prior to joining All Rise, Aaron spent 15 years at the Center for Court Innovation, overseeing the Center’s national work in the areas of treatment courts, community justice, alternatives to incarceration, tribal justice, and more. Aaron has served as a prosecutor with the Maricopa County Attorney's Office in Phoenix, Arizona, where he gained first-hand experience working in several problem-solving courts. Aaron is graduate of Cornell University and the University of Arizona College of Law.

Justice-involved individuals experience mental health and substance use disorders at much higher rates than the general population. In this session, experts from All Rise will discuss concrete strategies for identifying individuals with mental health and/or substance use disorders in the justice system, explore promising diversion models, and offer guidance for jurisdiction seeking to build new alternatives to incarceration.

Fostering Well-Being through Social Support & Belonging: Leaning In to Systemic Solutions to Burnout & Workplace Stress

Jessie Harney

Jessie Harney is an Assistant Professor of Public Policy and Administration at Colorado State University. Her research interests are in justice system reform, with much of her work specifically focusing on fostering mental health and well-being. Specifically, the primary questions motivating her work are: 1) how do we improve the mental health of frontline workers in these systems?; 2) how does the well-being of frontline workers impact the way they engage with system-impacted populations?; and 3) how do we improve the well-being of system-impacted individuals and families through specific, direct services or policies? Her academic training is in psychology, biostatistics, and public policy; as such, she believes deeply in the importance of an interdisciplinary and community-driven approach to research and building public policy and programs.

This session would share results from a study that tested the impact of a peer-focused wellness intervention on employee well-being and attitudes, relative to an individual wellness intervention (i.e., those that tend to be common in status quo, organizational wellness programs.) Through a causal design, we find significant evidence of improved well-being and attitudes in the peer program versus the individual program in a high-stress occupation: correctional work.

How Ted Lasso's Leadership Style Can Help You Build Psychological Safety

Jeff Harry combines positive psychology and play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety and assist individuals in addressing their biggest challenges by embracing a play-oriented approach to work. Jeff was selected by BambooHR & Engagedly as one of the Top 100 HR Influencers and has been featured in the NY Times, Mashable, Upworthy, Huffpost, Shondaland, Wired, NPR, NatGeo, & Forbes. Jeff has worked with Google, Microsoft, Southwest Airlines, Adobe, the NFL, Amazon, and Facebook, helping their staff to infuse more play into the day-to-day. Over the past 15 years of facilitation and speaking, Jeff’s main goal has been to help work suck less by assisting leaders in building a playground workplace atmosphere that motivates their staff to do their most vibrant work.

85% of employees are disengaged at work. Staff leave because they don't feel seen, heard, or appreciated.  Who knew the answer to this lies in a show called Ted Lasso? In this workshop, we will explore how play and positive psychology are essential to building psychological safety in this surreal new reality of work. We will analyze through the lens of Ted Lasso what currently needs to be added to your workplace that would create the culture your staff is looking for.

VA + NAMI Partnership Promotes Hope through Education: A Panel Discussion

Marsden McGuire

Theresa Schmitz

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and NAMI began partnering in April 2022 to promote access to NAMI’s Homefront virtual family education curriculum. While still in its infancy, the VA/NAMI partnership has expanded engagement in Homefront across the Veteran family & caregiver populations. This panel will present the partnership development, share background on supportive legislation, summarize early implementation efforts and lessons, and highlight data from our first year of collaboration.

Implementing Community-based Strategies to Address Behavioral Health Crises Through Law Enforcement-led Deflection

Ernest Stevens

Ernest (Ernie) Stevens is a published author with a #1 best selling book on Amazon titled: Mental Health and De-escalation: A Guide for Law Enforcement Professionals. Ernie was also a contributing author for, Police Mental Health Barricade. Ernie was a police officer for 28 years, serving 26 of those years with the San Antonio Police Department where he was a founding member of the Mental Health Unit. Ernie has been featured on the Emmy Award Winning HBO Documentary, Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops. He has also been featured in NBC’s documentary, A Different Kind of Force. Ernie was interviewed by ABC’s Nightline’s Byron Pitts, and featured on officers trained to respond to mental illness calls. Ernie has been featured in over 40 publications and deemed an expert in Crisis Intervention Training. Ernie is a graduate of Wayland Baptist University and holds a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice. Ernie was one of the founding members of the San Antonio Police Department’s Mental Health Unit. Ernie continues to assist law enforcement agencies aound the nation by providing technical assistance and best practice approaches to mental health crisis calls. Ernie currently serves as the deputy director of law enforcement for the Council of State Governments Justice Center where he works closely with the Dept of Justice to assist agencies across the nation develop and strengthen their crisis response models.

Philip Ross

Phil Ross is a Program Manager with TASC’s Center for Health and Justice. He provides comprehensive technical assistance and strategy development for justice system agencies, with a primary focus on alternatives to incarceration and linkages to care for individuals with behavioral health conditions, including substance use and mental health disorders. Phil received his JD from the University of Michigan Law School, and has advocated for the rights of marginalized communities through civil litigation and policy work. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Tulane University.

Sakinah Slayton

Sakinah Slayton is a 24-year veteran of the New Castle County Police Department, where she has made significant contributions in both the Operations and Administrative divisions. As a Lieutenant, Slayton expertly blends her educational background — holding a master's degree in human resources management from Wilmington University and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Cheyney University— with varied professional experience. She held a supervisory role in the Professional Standards Unit (Internal Affairs), led as a patrol squad commander, and demonstrated her proficiency as a Public Information Officer (PIO). Her experience also extends to the Research, Accreditation, Media and Policy (RAMP) unit as well as the Professional Development Unit. Currently, Lieutenant Slayton serves as the Community Engagement Executive Officer and leads the Behavioral Health and Community Services Unit, following her tenure as the Operations Branch Executive Officer. Deeply committed to community involvement, she actively participates in community service, contributing through coaching and mentoring both her peers and young people. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, her community service and mentoring efforts are an integral part of her personal life as well. A passionate advocate for wellness and mental health, Lieutenant Slayton integrates these values into her professional life.

Chris Richardson

As the Director of the Crisis Service Bureau, Chris Richardson has over 19 years of clinical expertise working with behavioral health populations that intersect with criminal justice systems and integrating sequential intercept planning into alternative criminal justice solutions. Operating as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Counselor, Chris oversaw the creation and growth of Denver’s Co-Responder Program in 2016, Civilian Response program (STAR) in 2020, and Court based assertive community treatment teams in 2018. Grounded in trauma informed practices, the Crisis Service Bureau additionally houses the Victim Assistance Unit, supporting victims of crime and accessing care to engage individuals in the healing process. To its core, the Crisis Service Bureau seeks to be able to engage effectively in community collaboration, connect community partners with first responder programs to streamline and gain access to low barrier services, and most importantly serve the citizens of Denver in solution focused, individual driven way.

During this interactive panel, directors from two law enforcement-led deflection programs will discuss how implementing behavioral health crisis response efforts has helped them respond to the unique needs of their communities, and outline the lessons learned through the successes and challenges faced by their deflection initiatives. These panelists also represent programs that are part of BJA’s First Responder Deflection Mentorship and Law Enforcement-Mental Health Learning Site Initiatives.

Mentally healthy workplaces begin with strong Purpose & Values – Learn to pressure-test your company's core principles.

Deborah Urbanik

Deborah Urbanik is a global organizational culture consultant with over 25 years of industry experience. She co-founded D. Whitney Consulting with the purpose of creating inspired human connection at work so ALL can thrive. She has helped to improve culture at companies like Liberty Mutual, Daiichi Sankyo, Takeda, FIS, Charles River Labs, Lumentum, Rite Aid and more. Deb is a passionate advocate for mental health and serves on the Board of Directors for NAMI NH. She is also one of NAMI NH's state support group facilitator trainers, an active support group leader, and a trained Life Interrupted speaker. She has spoken on mental health at work for chapters of the National Human Resource Association (NHRA) and The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) as well as for numerous global corporations.

Grace is a veteran of the human resources industry and profession, with over 25 years of experience in human capital strategy and transformation. She is passionate about nurturing talent and human potential while cultivating a sustainable inclusive culture. Grace is Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources and Diversity Officer at Lumentum Holdings, Inc; headquartered in Silicon Valley. She is a recipient of multiple recognitions in culture and diversity include Top 50 Chief Diversity Officers, Best Employer for Diversity by Forbes, Top Workplaces Award, America’s Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek, and Best Large Companies in America by Forbes. Grace is an independent board member at Asure Software where she is chair of the Nominating Governance committee and member of the Compensation Committee. Grace serves as a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council at Cornell University, ILR School. She is also serving as Co-Chair of Gartner’s Evanta CHRO Southern California Governing Body. Grace holds a master’s degree in human resources from Cornell University, School of Industrial and Labor Relations, and a master’s degree in global leadership from the School of Business at the University of San Diego.

For many of us, our jobs consume most of our time, energy, and effort each day. The experiences we share with our colleagues strengthen our mental health or diminish it. How can a company move beyond policies and programs to shape healthy human connection at work? It begins with strong Purpose and Values. Join Chief Human Resource Officer Grace Lee and Organizational Culture Consultant Deborah Urbanik to learn how to uncover if your company's core principles support a mentally healthy culture.

Military and Veteran Caregiver Mental Wellness Framework

Rebecca Mullaney

Rebecca Mullaney is a therapist, public speaker and mental health advocate. She owns and operates Stable Ground Counseling, a private psychotherapy practice in North Carolina focused on trauma recovery utilizing equine assisted psychotherapy. Additionally, she provides mental wellness consulting to the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and helps to shape the wellness offerings for military caregivers. Rebecca has consulted for several VSOs to include Team Red White and Blue, Give an Hour, and Team Rubicon. Prior to her current roles, she worked for The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) where she managed media messaging and communications for military suicide loss survivors. Rebecca's drive for supporting military families stemmed from her time as an elementary school teacher and later school counselor supporting military children on Fort Hood, and more personally from her experience as a surviving military spouse. She has had the distinct honor of focusing much of her professional life on advancing mental health and wellness supports for America's military members, veterans and their families, and feels encouraged by the progress made. Rebecca has been featured in multiple publications to include TIME Magazine, NBC News, and the Army Times, and frequently visits Capitol Hill to advocate on military issues. She has earned a bachelors (BSIS) degree in Elementary Education from Stephen F. Austin State University, a Master of Arts in School Psychology and Counseling from Mary Hardin-Baylor University, and an Educational Specialty (Ed.S) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University.

Lisell Perez-Rogers

Lisell serves as the Interim Lead of Programs and Director of Clinical Education and Mental Wellness for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. In this role she manages the Foundation’s clinical education programs through the Campaign for Inclusive Care and the Hidden Helpers Clinical Transformation Subcommittee. She also leads the expansion of the Foundation’s Mental Wellness program offerings, including the Caregiver Mental Wellness Framework and Caregiver Mental Wellness Workshops. Before joining the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Lisell worked in the mental health field, serving as a Residential Counselor at a children’s hospital and as a Mental Health Counseling Intern at a university counseling center. Prior to pursuing clinical training, Lisell worked at the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), where she served as the Research and Training Coordinator followed by the Grants and Research Program Manager. Originally from Woodstock, New York, Lisell graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society from American University and a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Boston College. She currently resides in Dover, NH.

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation released the Caregiver Mental Wellness Framework, following more than two years of development with military and veteran caregivers, mental health professionals, and human-centered design experts. In this session, we’ll walk through the development of the Framework before taking an interactive dive into its content, where session participants will have an opportunity to engage in self-reflective content within each of the Framework’s six dimensions.

Owning the Solutions: Including BIPOC Youth and Young Adult Voices

Jorge Alvarez

Jorge Alvarez (he/him) is a first-generation college graduate and son to a father who immigrated from Cuba and a Puerto Rican mother. Jorge applies his lived & living experience with mental illness and background in Public Health through advocacy for his community and youth & young adult BIPOC. He has been platformed and recognized by The White House, Business Insider, The New York Times, TikTok, MTV, and more. As a Social Impact Strategist & Mental Health Advocate, Jorge has worked with corporations, nonprofits, and policymakers to ensure voice & representation of BIPOC youth and young adults are centered from ideation to execution in building accessible resources, intentional initiatives & programs, impact driven campaigns through strategic partnerships, & policy. From consulting to speaking across the country, Jorge has a passion for direct community engagement which he fulfills by educating and equipping young people with the frameworks needed to prioritize their mental health or be advocates themselves. He’s taken his voice to social media, where as a Creator, Jorge uses his love for storytelling to combat stigma by cultivating space for collective reflection, unlearning limiting beliefs, and breaking cycles both on and offline. He’s grown a community of +130,000 across his social platforms and was recognized by MTV as 1 of 30 participants to be part of the inaugural Mental Health Youth Action Forum at The White House where he spoke alongside Selena Gomez, the U.S. First Lady, and the U.S. Surgeon General. Most recently, Jorge advised MTV and Active Minds on their new national multi-year mental health campaign called ASK, received the Young Innovators in Behavioral Health Tech Award, and spoke at The White House Youth Policy Summit. Today, Jorge continues to apply a community-centered and intersectional approach to his work addressing youth mental health, through highlighting BIPOC youth voices and ensuring solutions are culturally sensitive and acknowledge the ways in which mental health is connected to other social and health determinants.

As a Gen Z Latine man advocating to normalize and encourage action around mental health for the last 6 years, I've experienced and heard the challenges youth and young adults (YYA) have AND continue to navigate. Applying these experiences, my session will explore how to go beyond including YYA and the importance of moving towards providing us with ownership of the solutions built for us but often without us. Doing my best to depict why lack of YYA presence has led to the crisis we face today.

Peer Support Leadership Journeys and Strategies

Amy Brinkley

Bio Amy Brinkley CAPRCII, CRS/CHW Recovery Support Systems Coordinator, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD) Amy Brinkley is a nationally recognized advocate for mental health and substance use recovery with 14 years of direct lived experience. Motivated by personal recovery experience and losses, including the suicides of three brothers and her mother's overdose, Amy is dedicated to driving change across the country through effective peer support, recovery-oriented systems of care, and robust recovery data collection practices and policies. Her goal is to improve the quality of life and sustained recovery for individuals with substance use disorders and mental illness by promoting person-centered, recovery-oriented outcomes. In her professional career, Amy served for five years with the Indiana State Division of Mental Health and Addiction, where she held a state-level position overseeing and building infrastructure for peer/recovery support services statewide. During this time, she made significant contributions to the field, including serving as a contributing author on several publications for the American Psychiatric Association Journals, leveraging her expertise in peer support as a member of the APA Policy Advisory Board. Amy continues to contribute to the APA in this capacity to this day. Since January 2022, Amy has been employed as the Recovery Support Services Coordinator for the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD). In this role, she provides invaluable guidance and leadership in supporting states and territories across the country in their efforts to expand recovery support services. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in developing recovery data collection practices and policies, particularly from her work in Indiana, where she gained a deep understanding of the lived experience needs related to access to recovery support services at a grassroots statewide level. Beyond her role at NASMHPD, Amy actively serves as a board member for NAMI National, the SURF Center, Recovery Café Lafayette, and as the Board President and CEO for Paul's Plan Ministries. These engagements reflect her commitment to making a positive impact on mental health and recovery at both the national and local levels. Amy takes pride in her role as a wife and mother, nurturing a loving home that includes four children, three cats, and a cherished Labradoodle named Ruby. Indiana is where Amy and her family call home.

Ray Lay is a formerly homeless honorably discharged U.S. Marine living with a dual diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder and polysubstance abuse issues.

In this presentation the audience will hear from a panel of 3 different national peer subject matter experts (2 are also NAMI National board members) who will provide a unique perspective on their personal mental health, substance use, and veteran peer lived experiences and the challenges they overcame to gain leadership status in the national peer recovery space. This session will explore the valuable insights of effective leadership strategies rooted in direct lived experience.

Taking Next Gen Local: NAMI Affiliates and Young Peers, Professionals and Advocates

Michael Branche

Kaylea Dillon

Kaylea Dillon joined the NAMI family through NAMI-On Campus in 2018. She is a member of NAMI Ohio's NEXT Gen Project and YouthMOVE leadership team. She is a medical student at Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine and was the first Certified Youth Peer Supporter in Ohio. In addition, Kaylea helps NAMI and YouthMOVE Ohio by leading a team of peers who work to create training curriculums and facilitate certification trainings for young professionals working in the behavioral health field.

Angela Lariviere

Angela Lariviere is the Director of YouthMOVE Ohio. She joined the NAMI Ohio team in 2013She has extensive experience in strategic planning, policy and advocacy, trauma informed program development, peer support, and youth leadership. As a peer, she used her life experience to create the Youth Empowerment Program to give disconnected cross-systems youth a voice.Through this work Angela created coalitions and created programs to address the needs ofspecial populations of youth including: Military youth, Youth in Gangs, Trafficked Youth, Youth in Foster Care and Homeless Youth. Angela has developed and led youth programs for Local Schools, the Ohio Governors Community Service Council, Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio, The Ohio State University Department of Human Ecology, Star House Youth Drop IN Center, Youth Empowerment Program and NAMIOhio. As director of NAMI Ohio YouthMOVE, she supervises staff and leaders to develop strategic plans and advocate for multi-systems youth services in Ohio, participated in the development of Certified Youth Peer Support, provides training and support for youth leaders, partnerorganizations and county groups. She also oversees grants and chapter development and participates on state management teams. In addition, Angela has served on National committees to address issues facing youth and young adults, including serving as an AmeriCorps Leader at the Corporation for National Service, a Diversity Fellow with the Kellogg Foundation, and peer advisor for the US Inter Agency Council on Homelessness.

Janelle Freman

Hello! My name is Janelle Freman. I am currently a full-time third year psychology major and I attend University Of Louisville fully online. The short time I have worked at Nami Urban Greater Cincinnati and YouthMove Ohio has provided me with so many opportunities to learn about mental illness and network with professionals. A little bit more about my background. Growing up in a one-parent household, depression and anxiety have been a part of my life since I was 15. Even though I had my mother's support, I still wish I had peer support or another program to express myself through. The experience that I have gained. I have been able to provide support and advocacy to other kids and young adults within my community while working at Nami Urban Greater Cincinnati and YouthMove Ohio. Throughout this career path, I have discovered my purpose, which is to support and advocate for kids and young adults who need support and advocacy with their mental health, parental issues, stability, and just a friend to talk to.

Amber Payne

For the past 10 years, NAMI Ohio has worked to increase youth peer support, programs, and opportunities throughout Ohio. This presentation will include youth peers and adult supporters who are working at the state and local levels to strengthen NAMI's work with young people. Learn how our youth leadership team created a strategic plan, leveraged funding, advocated for Certified Youth Peer Support, and are increasing youth presence in our State and Local Affiliates.

Taming the Beast—My Journey with Bipolar Disorder

Joseph DiGiovanni

My name is Joe DiGiovanni. I’ve been married over 33 years, have four adult children, served in the United States Air Force on active duty, and continue to serve as a civilian as an enterprise architect at Scott Air Force Base. During my career I’ve earned two master’s of science degrees in Information Management and Cyber Leadership. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the love of an amazing, patient wife, my faith in God, the virtues of humility, patience, perseverance, and resilience - reinforced by my Air Force community, and the right combination of medicine and therapy. These things were all essential to taming the beast - managing my bipolar disorder to the point where its effects have been absent since 2011. Since that time, my mission has been to do all I can to help others prevent or mitigate mental illness. First, I joined NAMIWalks St Louis in 2013, became a team captain the next year and have served in that role ever since. I became a speaker in the In Our Own Voice program in 2019, and in 2021 was honored as Presenter of the Year. Several times over the years I’ve shared my story with various groups including my church, the Cursillo group, and graduate psychology students. I’m most proud of being able to help out family members who have struggled immensely with mental illness. They have not yet tamed the beast, but I’m confident that through those virtues I mentioned earlier, we will get there together.

This session is about a balanced approach toward treating bipolar disorder. I’ll describe how I built up resiliency through caring for mental, physical, and spiritual health. The hope is that by sharing my story, I’ll provide others the missing elements of their care plan.

A Paradigm Shift: Expanding the Crisis Care Continuum into Pretrial Detention

Timothy Bray

Prior to joining the Meadows Institute, Tim served as the Associate Commissioner for State Hospitals at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Overseeing the state hospital system, Tim was at the epicenter of forensic psychiatric inpatient care – a major crossroads of the criminal justice and mental health systems. Prior to serving in this role, Tim practiced law in a variety of roles, including serving as the Deputy General Counsel for Government Law at the Department of State Health Services and as an Assistant Attorney General in the Texas Attorney General’s office, as well as in private law practice in New England. Prior to the practice of law, Tim worked as a mental health counselor providing treatment services and emergency psychiatric evaluations in county jails and hospital emergency centers through a community mental health center in New Hampshire. As Vice President for Justice and Health Policy, Tim serves as the Texas team lead on Justice and Health initiatives and support various national system-focused projects associated with the Center for Justice and health. As a former behavioral health system decision-maker, Tim also serves as a thoughtful advisor for system actors providing technical assistance on health system integration, competency restoration, and various treatment diversion strategies for those currently entrenched or at risk of being justice-involved. Tim holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of San Diego, a master’s degree in counseling psychology from the University of New Hampshire, and a law degree from Northeastern University School of Law.

Yolanda Lewis

Yolanda is a nationally recognized justice executive with over 25 years of experience in the government and philanthropic sectors. Her career is defined by driving change through leadership, including the design of strategic and scalable solutions to improve the effective administration of justice and accessibility to health systems. Before joining the Meadows Institute as the executive vice president of justice and health, she was the senior director of safety and justice with The Pew Charitable Trusts. In that role, she oversaw research and policy reform work to improve justice-related efficiencies at the state and local levels of government, including oversight of public safety performance, mental health, and civil legal system modernization. Yolanda's executive leadership experience includes serving as the district and trial court administrator for the Atlanta Judicial Circuit, where she managed the courts in Fulton County, Georgia, designing initiatives to improve public safety, including a focus on judicial administration, criminal and civil case management, mental health, and justice reinvestment. Lewis has served as a faculty member for Michigan State University's Judicial Administration program, vice president of the National Association for Court Management, founding member of the Fulton County Smart Justice Advisory Council, and president of the Georgia Council of Court Administrators. A certified court manager, Lewis has experience as an executive producer and host for media platforms covering justice-related issues, is a mayoral appointee to the Racial Equity Advisory Board for the District Court of Columbia, a board member for the National Center for State Courts, and a former board member of the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System. Yolanda holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a master's in public administration from the University of South Alabama. She also graduated from the executive leadership program at Yale University.

Laura Slocum

Laura Slocum serves as the Senior Director of Crisis Systems Transformation and Chief of Staff for Justice and Health at the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. Laura has 20 years of experience in behavioral healthcare, with a focus on the intersection of behavioral health and justice systems. Laura believes that working in the field of justice and health yields responsibilities and opportunities to advance social justice and that matters of inequities in these systems must always be the explicit lens through which policies and programming are conceived, developed, and evaluated. Laura completed her bachelor’s degree at Loyola University New Orleans and completed her master’s degree at Our Lady of the Lake University San Antonio. She has been a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas since 2006.

Manuel Zamora

Many jurisdictions across the country have made efforts to divert people with significant mental health needs away from the criminal legal system and into community-based care, yet many people living with behavioral health disorders continue to experience arrest and the perils of pretrial detention. With increased risks of suicide and self-harm, expanding the crisis care continuum into the initial detention phase of incarceration offers a pathway to care and an opportunity for diversion.

Building Intergenerational Partnerships: Engaging Youth in Leadership & Advocacy for Mental Health

Pooja Mehta

Pooja Mehta is an outspoken South Asian Mental Health Advocate and suicide loss survivor, and has been telling her story to audiences across the United States for the last 9 years. Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Pooja holds a Masters in Public Health from Columbia, and is building a career working in Health Policy in Washington, DC. As a professional with lived experience, she is eager to further the conversation around the role public health and patient perspective plays in mental healthcare and looks forward to changing the way we think and talk about mental health as a society.

Amanda Lipp

Amanda Kay Lipp is a documentary filmmaker, speaker, and social entrepreneur working at the intersection of mental health care, storytelling, and technology. She is the Owner of Lipp Studios, Founder at The Giving Gallery, Co-Founder at neuroTree, and Technical Assistance Specialist at the Center for Applied Research Solutions. She previously worked at the California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA). Amanda's own lived experience going through the mental health care system during college drives her passion. Since age 18, she has produced over 100 short films about mental health, and given over 150 keynotes around the U.S. sharing stories and resources. Clients have included Columbia Psychiatry, Sutter Health, Stanford Medicine, and UCSF. She is focused on elevating complex topics like youth psychosis, disaster relief, alternative housing, and recreation therapy. Her films have been used in research studies about stigma reduction, and digital advertising campaigns in New York City to promote awareness. She has served on numerous state and national boards, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the Mental Health Advisory Panel at Google, and the Interdepartmental Serious Mental Illness Committee (ISMICC) created by Congress. Amanda graduated from UC Davis with a B.S. in Human Development.

Intergenerational partnership and diverse leadership is essential for sustained organizational growth. Engaging youth and young adults in leadership roles is necessary for both growing the Alliance and building the mental health care system of tomorrow. The presenters, young professionals and the youngest NAMI National board members to serve in the organization’s history, share challenges and lessons on how to include and support diverse youth leadership and advocacy.

Competency Restoration: Innovations in Indiana

Katrina Norris

Katrina Norris earned her Master of Social Work degree in 2008 from IUPUI in Indianapolis. In addition, she holds four additional undergraduate degrees, two licenses, and a board certification. Katrina is the Executive Director of Indiana’s State Psychiatric Hospital Network within the Division of Mental Health and Addiction. In her role she oversees all six of Indiana’s state hospitals. Katrina has taught as an adjunct professor for Ivy Tech Community College and the IU School of Social Work for the past 13 years. Finally, Katrina has been a well-received and respected presenter at professional development conferences in Indiana as well as on national platforms. In addition, to her professional roles Katrina has been a valued asset to the state and regional communities serving on multiple advisory boards, including the IU School of Social Work Alumni Board, Indiana Rural Health Association Board and is the former President of the National Association of Social Workers-Indiana Chapter. She was a proud member of the IU Grand Challenges initiative to enhance research and programming through the State in response to the opioid crisis. Katrina was awarded the NASW Region 5 Social Worker of the Year in 2014 and the Distinguished Alumni Award from IU School of Social Work in 2016. In 2020, she received the prestigious bicentennial medal from Indiana University. In 2022, Katrina was awarded the Distinguished Chapter Service award by the National Association of Social Workers.

Jennifer Braun

Jenny Braun, PsyD, HSPP, is a licensed clinical psychologist and the Clinical Director of Evansville State Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, one of five adult hospitals within Indiana’s State Psychiatric Hospital Network under the purview of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction. Dr. Braun received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Wright Institute in Berkeley, California and worked as a psychologist for the California Department of State Hospitals in Napa, CA before moving back to her home state of Indiana. Dr. Braun is an adjunct professor at the University of Evansville where she teaches courses on trial competency and psychology. She integrates in-depth psychological theories into the treatment of severe mental illness and is drawn to trial competency as a natural meeting place between the fields of law, mental health, and social justice.

Jay Chaudhary

Jay is the director of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction with the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. Prior to joining DMHA, he served as managing attorney and director of Medical Legal Partnerships for Indiana Legal Services. Chaudhary holds an JD from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law and an undergraduate degree from Ball State University. Jay is the chair of the Indiana Behavioral Health Commission, and an Aspen Institute Ascend Fellow. He is the recipient of the 2020 “Distinguished Service” award from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law; the 2022 Ramstad-Kennedy Award from the National Association of State Drug and Alcohol Abuse Directors; and the 2023 “Champion of Justice” award from the Indiana Judges Association. He was recently named a “top 20 under 40” leader in the country by the Council of State Governments.

The volume of competency orders increased by an alarming rate in Indiana over the past five years. With hundreds of individuals lingering in county jails awaiting competency restoration services, our strategies had to be revisited. This session will describe the innovative pathways, data driven decision making, impressive outcomes and unique collaborations designed to meet the demand for competency evaluation and restoration services in our state.

How Do We Encourage Men to Seek Support for Their Mental Health?

David Hogan

David is a 49 year old male that was diagnosed with a rare disease 8 years ago. There about 7000 different rare diseases impacting about 300 million people around the world with 95% of them having no treatments and cures and being impacted by rare condition can have an increased risk to your mental health compared to the general population. He set up a virtual rare disease male mental health group in 2020 for guys around the world providing a safe space for men to share their feelings, seek support if needed and listen to others stories . His other current projects are working in a mental health partnership network and social policy group with rare disease organisation Eurordis . He has also made a 13 minute called beyond limits which is about the importance of rare disease men taking care of their mental health. The purpose of the film was also to raise awareness about the need and importance of making sure all voices are heard and no one should be forgotten about !

It’s about how we encourage men to seek support for their mental health – by exploring my own story of having a rare disease, my mental health challenges and the creation of my Rare Disease Mental Health Support group. It’s a space for men from different countries and cultures to come together, and despite our differences, we all have that shared powerful connection between us. I facilitate societal challenges men face today as well as unpacking ways we can as a collective make a change for all

Mental Health at Yale University: How Two Students and Alumni Settled a Landmark Class-Action Lawsuit

Lucy Wooyeon Kim is a joint undergraduate and graduate student completing her bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale College and her master’s in Public Policy at the Jackson School. Before Yale, she worked with several nonprofit organizations in making health care more accessible to low-income and undocumented immigrant communities in her hometown of Los Angeles. At Yale, she has been selected as a Global Health Scholar and serves on the leadership boards of the HAVEN Free Clinic. Lucy found Elis for Rachael when seeking support during her own medical withdrawal from Yale. She was in the final cohort to be reinstated under Yale’s reinstatement policies before the settlement with Elis for Rachael. Following her reinstatement, Lucy has worked closely with Elis for Rachael on fortifying mental health resources and restructuring campus culture at Yale. Currently, she is working on a project to build a time-away center to support current students during their health crises. In the future, she hopes to use her background to achieve equitable and accessible health care across the globe.

Alicia Abramson

As one of two student plaintiffs in a landmark legal case against Yale University, I spent the latter portion of my undergraduate career suing my school. My advocacy began on a personal level. In the fall of 2019, I withdrew from Yale in the midst of a struggle with depression, an eating disorder, and various other mental health concerns. In a time when I was supposed to be healing, I was instead faced with countless barriers to accessing adequate support and accommodation from Yale. Two years later, I became involved in a surge of mental health advocacy at Yale, ultimately choosing to confront these systemic injustices through legal action alongside a group of dedicated students and alumni. In less than a year, we settled the lawsuit, leading to sweeping reforms in mental health resources and accessibility at Yale. However, our work is far from over. I hope to continue dismantling stigmas surrounding mental illness not just on college campuses, but nationally, in an effort to create a world where everyone has access to the care they need.

Lily Colby (she/they), is a community organizer, attorney, and legislative advocate. Her current projects areas include foster care, disability rights, housing injustice, and LGBTQIA+ rights. Lily graduated Yale University with a B.A. in Economics and received their law degree from Berkeley Law School in 2015. Lily worked on foster care and education policy as an Equal Justice Works Fellow at the Youth Law Center and the National Center for Youth Law. Lily served as a Commissioner for the ABA Commission on Youth at Risk and is currently on the Board of Legal Services for Children. In 2021, after the death by suicide of Yale student Rachael Shaw-Rosenbaum, Lily began organizing community meetings for students, alumni and family members impacted by Yale’s mental health policies. The work lead to co-founding Elis for Rachael, https://www.elisforrachael.org/, a non-profit which successfully sued Yale to change mental health policies for the better. Lily currently sits on the Board of Directors for Elis for Rachael and runs With Lived Experience, https://www.withlivedexperience.org/. Her areas of practice include coaching, organizing, and assisting people impacted by systems injustices to change those systems. If you have a project where you’d like to make a difference in your community feel free to reach out [email protected] .

Paul Johansen

I have both a professional and personal interest in improving mental health policies in higher education. I began working as a psychiatric research interviewer while studying at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. After withdrawing from medical school I spent 2.5 years as the Senior Research Analyst in the Psychiatric Epidemiology Unit at the Massachusetts General Hospital, working primarily on the Stirling County Study1. I am currently a Biostatistician at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, MA, where I work closely with psychiatry residents on their research projects. I also teach a diverse student population at Berkshire Community College2. I am a suicide survivor who has struggled at times with depression, and spent productive time at the Austen Riggs Center. My cousin died by suicide at age 55, leaving two daughters. Another cousin lived with schizophrenia most of his adult life. One of my cousin’s daughters went on to the Yale Law School, where she authored a report on mental health entitled, “Falling Through the Cracks.” So when first year Yale undergraduate Rachael Shaw-Rosembaum died by suicide in March, 2021, I was aware of the decade-long student advocacy efforts that had fallen on deaf administrative ears. And I was angry, because I felt that Rachael’s was an entirely preventable death. My advocacy work with Elis for Rachael3 is driven by a desire to channel my own experiences into protecting vulnerable students against inhumane and/or illegal university policies that interfere with their receiving the emotional and academic support they are entitled to. 1 https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/features/in-memoriam-jane-murphy-renowned-psychiatric-epidemiologist 2 https://www.berkshireeagle.com/opinion/columnists/paul-johansen-lisa-mattila-mental-health-on-college-campuses/article_9264e2bc-5646-11ee-8316-cfdab323bcb9.html 3 https://www.ctinsider.com/opinion/article/opinion-ending-mental-health-stigma-at-yale-18343776.php

In late March, 2021, Yale College was shaken by the on-campus death by suicide of Rachael Shaw-Rosenbaum. A small group of alumni quickly assembled to encourage administrators to modernize their arcane mental health policies. With the help of two courageous students, and an experienced legal team, we filed a class-action lawsuit on November 30, 2022 alleging that Yale discriminated against students with mental health conditions, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, among other

Partnering for Success: Girl Scouts USA Mental Wellness Patch Program

Jennifer Rothman

Jennifer Rothman has worked with NAMI at both the National and state level for a total of 16 years. In her time with NAMI, her focus has always been on youth, young adults, their families and the individuals who touch their lives regularly. She is passionate about providing any and all resources needed to help young people live happy, healthy and productive lives. As someone who experiences mental health conditions personally and as a family member, her drive for ending stigma and providing education never ceases. Jennifer is a mother to two daughters (11, 15) and a bonus mom to a 13 year old daughter and 5 year old son, making her forever grateful for the years of experience and continued knowledge she's gained while working for NAMI.

Caitlyn Branine

Caitlyn Branine is a Girl Scouts alumni and a senior at UCCS. Positive teen mental health has always been a passion of hers, especially in regards to social media and the impact it can have. This interest began in middle school when she was invited to speak at eighth-grade graduation. She found it very healing to be able to publicly share some of the pain she had experienced during her middle school years. She continued to research the topic and discovered that sharing your story can indeed have a positive impact on one’s mental health. As a result, she completed her Girl Scout's Gold Award project by developing a positive social media site and nonprofit called A Safe Place 2 Share. It provided teens and young adults a safe place to share their stories with others online. After graduating high school, she expanded her ideas through her college radio station, which she rebranded with the mission to allow college students the opportunity to share their stories over the air. The station allowed students to express their ideas, interests, and experiences through podcasts and music shows. Due to its wide variety of student content, UCCS Radio recently won 2024 College Radio Station of the Year at the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System conference in New York. Branine also won Best Student Station Manager in the nation.

Michelle Pierce

I have been a Girl Scout leader for the last 16 year and a service Unit manager for the last 8. I help girls and troops in my unit to share education and ideas. Both of my daughters started scouts in kindergarten and went through out school.

In 2021, NAMI and Girl Scouts USA decided to come together to create a patch program for girls grades 4-12 to address mental health and wellness. In July 2023, the patch program was announced and released at the 2023 Girl Scouts Convention. Hear about the development of the patch program and how it's been used in a Denver Girl Scouts Troop. You'll also hear from a Girl Scout Gold Award Recipient who created a space for young people to share their struggles and see that they're not alone.

Peer Support Specialists Credentialing Standards: Update on SAMHSA’s Model Standards

This workshop will offer an overview of SAMHSA’s Model Standards for Peer Support Credentialing along with an update of feedback received since the standards were launched summer of 2023. Co-presenters will then share the findings of NAMI’s organization wide survey of Certified Peer Specialists who were asked to share their feedback on each of the 11 standards and suggestions for improvement, as well as their thoughts on what NAMI National’s role should be in the Peer Credentialing space

From Stigma to Support: Normalizing the Conversation Surrounding Youth Seeking Help

Michelle Mullen

Michelle offers nearly twenty years of experience in independent research as well as program design, evaluation, and implementation. Michelle pairs her formal training in implementation science and commitment to equity through participatory action/stakeholder engagement to inform all aspects of her work from designing interventions/programs to evaluating impact. Her areas of expertise are mental health, young adult services, young adult career development, and enhancing academic persistence of college students. At JED, Michelle leads a multiple disciplinary team to implement and evaluate programming focused on improving help seeking; help giving, enhancing mental health, and preventing suicide with teens and young adults in schools or other key settings. Michelle is also a researcher in the Department of Psychiatry at UMass Chan Medical School and previously at Rutgers University. Michelle’s research focuses on career development of young adults; standardizing complex interventions to better support college students with mental health conditions; and evaluating the effectiveness of various educational supports to enhance persistence of college and high school students. Michelle received her Master’s degree from Boston University and her PhD from the University of Pennsylvania.

We seek to share JED’s research results to shift the conversation about stigma and help-seeking among teens. Attendees will hear teens’ perspectives around emotional well-being, challenges to reaching out for support, and where they are most likely to seek help. This session will challenge commonly held perceptions of stigma and evaluate structural and systemic barriers to help-seeking as well as propose effective solutions for initiating difficult, intergenerational conversations.

Resilience in Adversity: Innovating Support Groups in the Wake of Natural Disasters

Amber Drake

Amber Drake is the current NAMI Maui affiliate leader, sits on the NAMI state board of directors, and is a graduate student in the UH Hilo’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Ms. Drake also volunteers with Mental Health America and is a certified instructor for NAMI’s Peer to Peer support group, Mental Health America’s Youth Suicide and Bullying Prevention, and is a National instructor for Youth Mental Health First Aid. Ms. Drake also facilitates the NAMI Maui Strong support group for the Lahaina wildfire survivors.

Kathy Hammes

Kathy Hammes has been part of NAMI Hawaii since 1997. Her first involvement with NAMI was as a family support group participant then leader, and she has been co-leading Connection Recovery Support Groups since 2022. In 2023 the Maui Wildfires Disaster struck and Anisa Wiseman, NAMI Hawaii Deputy Director, approached Kathy to join her in providing disaster support. Kathy was ready to help and learn how to adapt our NAMI support group model to a new and pressing situation. This is Kathy’s second NAMICON and she looks forward to enjoying the program and meeting others with lived experience and a passion for NAMI. She hopes to attend sessions related to her favorite NAMI programs and activities including Family and Peer Education, Advocacy, NAMIWalks, fundraising and writing grant proposals. Kathy retired from social work in mental health, lives on the Big Island of Hawaii, and enjoys family life with her husband, David, her younger son, Steven, and the family cat, Beau Jangles. Kathy is in her second year serving at NAMI Hawaii State Board President and she is active as a Family-to-Family Education Program facilitator, Speakers’ Bureau volunteer, and mental health advocate.

Anisa Wiseman

As Deputy Director of NAMI Hawaii State, Anisa brings over a decade of experience in supporting individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. With a deep commitment to fidelity in support group facilitation, Anisa has been a dedicated facilitator for five years, navigating the unique challenges posed by the pandemic. Drawing from personal experience, Anisa lives in recovery from PTSD, anxiety, and depression. This lived experience informs their empathetic approach to supporting others in their journey towards mental wellness. Additionally, Anisa has a firsthand understanding of the impact of mental health conditions on families, with her mother diagnosed with bipolar disorder and severe psychosis. Anisa is passionate about adapting support groups to meet the diverse needs of communities, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters such as the Lahaina fires in Maui. After undergoing specialized training in natural disaster response, it became evident that our existing support group model was ill-equipped to address the unique challenges posed by such events. We have taken everything day by day and adapted as we moved forward. Through her involvement with NAMI Hawaii State and dedication to fidelity in support group facilitation, Anisa is committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where individuals and families can find solace, strength, and healing on their mental health journey.

Uncover Maui's post-fire NAMI support group evolution, uniting community resilience. Navigate unique strategies for mental health post-disaster, with insights into innovation, challenges, and community empowerment. Explore collaborative initiatives, including a partnership with HECO, spotlighting the impact of corporate-community collaboration in crisis recovery.

The Power of Relationships: The Wisconsin Experience of Improving Access to Care Through Local and State Mental Health Coalitions

Michelle Broaddus

Dr. Broaddus's research interests are in the development and evaluation of community-based, clinic-based, and public health programs to improve mental health, substance use, and outcomes along the HIV care continuum. Throughout her career Dr. Broaddus has prioritized addressing health equity and the needs of vulnerable populations. In 2016, Dr. Broaddus became the Principal Investigator of the Advancing Behavioral Health Initiative (ABHI). The ABHI was funded by the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin (AHW) Endowment to build the networks, systems, and structures best suited to address the challenges Wisconsin residents faced and has set the standard for large-scale mental and behavioral health improvement. This 8-year, 3-phase project funded ten community coalitions across the state, including urban, rural, and tribal communities, to improve behavioral health at a population-level through systems change. An Academic Partner Team, led by Dr. Broaddus, was also selected to support coalitions, collaborate on data collection and analysis, and conduct a global evaluation of the project. Over the eight years of this project, funding was used form coalitions, identify priorities, build sustainable programs, and measure their effectiveness. Dr. Broaddus has collaborated with each community coalition, providing tailored support to local coalition staff, participating in a Learning Community to bolster relationships and build trust with all coalition staff, and implementing a global evaluation.

Courageous Conversations: Navigating Mental Health and Advocacy with Congressman Kennedy and Daniel H. Gillison Jr., NAMI National CEO

Join us for a Fireside Chat featuring Congressman Kennedy, renowned mental health advocate and author, in dialogue with Dan Gillison. In this candid conversation, Congressman Kennedy will share his personal journey through mental health challenges, drawing from his own experiences documented in his insightful books. From navigating the highs and lows of public life to confronting stigma and advocating for policy change, Congressman Kennedy has been at the forefront of the mental health movement. Together with Dan, they will explore the evolving landscape of mental health advocacy, highlighting the critical role of storytelling, policy advocacy, and community support in driving change.

Closing Party

It’s a party—and you’re invited! You don’t want to miss this fabulous night of good food, drinks, live music, games and most of all... lots of fun. Make lasting memories with old and new friends alike!

Update on the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Dr. Andrew Nierenberg

Andrew A. Nierenberg, MD is the Director of the Dauten Family Center for Bipolar Treatment Innovation Massachusetts General Hospital and Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School. In addition to directing the Dauten Center, Dr. Nierenberg is the co-director of Mass General’s Center for Clinical Research Education and associate director of the Depression Clinical and Research Program. He also holds the Thomas P. Hackett, MD, Endowed Chair in Psychiatry at Mass General.

Dr. Nierenberg graduated from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY. After completing his residency in psychiatry at New York University/Bellevue Hospital, he studied clinical epidemiology at Yale University as a Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholar. Dr. Nierenberg then joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School, first at McLean Hospital in Belmont, MA and then at Massachusetts General Hospital. He is also an Honorary Professor in the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health at Deakin University, Geelong, Australia, and an Honorary Skou Professor at Aarhus University in Denmark.

Dr. Nierenberg focuses on clinical trials for bipolar disorder and depression with over 595 published papers and a Google scholar h-index of 126. He has been listed among The Best Doctors or Top Doctors in America for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders yearly since 1994. He has been honored with the ISBD Mogens Schou Award for Research and the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation’s Colvin Prize.   Current projects include organizing a Bipolar Disorder Learning Health Network and leading the SMART-BD study (Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Treatment for Bipolar Depression).

In this session, I will review the treatment of bipolar disorder with a focus on outcomes and a collaboration with NAMI to build a learning health network to help people thrive and reduce the probability of mood episodes.

Faith Services

Morning plenary, frequently asked questions, 1 when and where will namicon 2024 take place, 6 will there be a virtual namicon 2024, 2 what hotel is nami using for the convention what are the hotel rates, 4 what is the annual business meeting, 5 will i get much out of the convention if i am not a nami member  how do i benefit if i am not a nami member, 5 are there scholarships to attend namicon, 5 will there be scooters or wheelchairs available, 5 how do i decide what sessions to attend  , 5 can i earn continuing education (ce) credits , 5 if i am unable to attend the convention, how do i cancel my registration, 5 i am interested in being a sponsor and/or exhibitor for namicon 2024. who should i contact.

©2024 National Alliance onn Mental Illness (NAMI). All rights reserved.

NAMICon 2024 - Invitation

About NAMICon

NAMICon will engage, challenge, and include you in dynamic discussions and inspiring moments. It will introduce you to new ideas and tools you can take with you. It’ll connect you with people who will go from strangers to community—all in the name of mental health awareness, education, and advocacy.

Looking for more information? Visit our FAQ page or reach out to us at [email protected] .

What to Expect

There’s something for everyone at NAMICon, no matter your background. Join us in Minneapolis (May 24-27) to attend exclusive sessions, meet others who are passionate about mental health and make meaningful, lasting connections in an environment that energizes, inspires and educates. Join us for the virtual conference (June 6-8) to watch new, online-only sessions and recorded panels. 

Both offerings curate inspiring sessions and space for anyone who may be interested in listening, learning, or sharing their unique personal or professional expertise.

Program Themes

Please note we are currently reviewing proposals for sessions. Details and timing will be finalized in March. Stay tuned!

Culture and identity in mental health

These workshops will explore how to promote equitable mental and emotional support for underreached communities. You’ll learn from subject matter experts experienced in matters of social justice, racial and ethnic identity, and equity-minded practice. Topics may explore:

• How mental health disparities have created barriers for marginalized and under-resourced groups
• Mental well-being for boys and men of color
• Mental health services in rural communities
• How to reduce barriers to care
• How to promote culturally competent mental health care

Crisis response and intervention

When the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline launched in July 2022, the landscape shifted. How do current responses to mental health crises affect individuals, families, and communities? What are the next steps for funding and implementation? Topics may explore:

• Crisis response models
• National, state, and local funding
• Best practice models for mobile crisis units
• Barriers to care for people of color
• Decriminalization of mental illness

Workplace mental health

We’re witnessing a unique moment in the workplace revolution following the pandemic. These workshops will explore strategic opportunities to partner with employers on the many ways to effectively address mental health at work given its bottom-line impact on productivity, performance, recruitment, retention, and so much more. Topics may explore:

• Stigma reduction is essential, but what else is needed in creating psychological safety at work?
• What are the ingredients for creating mentally healthy organizational cultures?
• How do organizations tackle escalating rates of burnout and mental health concerns in young adults?
• What policies and practices best support employees with mental health conditions at work?
• What innovative practices are needed to improve access to mental health care services and supports in the workplace?

Youth and young adult mental health

More than a third of young adults have reported that their mental health keeps them from doing normal activities. What do we know about and how can we better respond to the unique mental health concerns of youth and young adults? How can NAMI adapt to the emerging needs of new generations? Topics may explore:

• Navigating education, employment, housing, and health care systems
• The mental health needs of first-generation college students
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on young adult mental health
• Mobile crisis teams for children
• Addressing trauma in children and adolescents

Innovations in research and treatment

The mental health field is continuously evolving. From neurobiology to virtual peer support, what are the trends, data and discoveries that will shape how we view and treat mental illness in the near future? Topics may explore:

• Specific mental illnesses, including mood disorders, serious mental illnesses (SMIs), trauma, PTSD, and psychosis
• Treatments, such as crisis care/hospitalization
• Situations that affect people with mental illness, such as law enforcement response to mental health crises

Best practices for state organizations and affiliates

If you’re a NAMI state organization or affiliate, this track is designed specifically for you. What are the emerging and established best practices that can help NAMI State Organizations and NAMI Affiliates build their capacity? What practical lessons have you learned that you can share with your peers across the country? Topics may explore:

• Grassroots and grasstops advocacy
• Cross-cultural community engagement
• Effective fundraising and donor development
• Developing a more effective Board of Directors
• Building partnerships with businesses and government

NAMI Alliance Day 2023

This event is dedicated to supporting the great work taking place across the Alliance. It precedes the general attendance portion of NAMICon and is designed specifically for NAMI State Organizations and NAMI Affiliates. We encourage all board volunteers, development directors, executive directors, public policy managers and walk managers to join us!

Alliance Day is presented and developed by NAMI National’s Alliance Relations, Development, and Field Governance (ARDFG) Department and in partnership with internal and external stakeholders.

You can expect to:

members of the ARDFG team.

about NAMI 10X, a plan that involves 10 key shifts in how we do things across the Alliance.

practical tips, tools and takeaways to help build and/or strengthen your organization’s capacity.

with your NAMI colleagues from across the country.

from several NAMI National departments and teams including advocacy, programs, governance and more!

NASMHPD Annual 2024 Meeting

Sunday, july 21, 2024 - tuesday, july 23, 2024 at the hyatt hotel in washington, dc, follow us on social media.

Twitter: @nasmhpd Facebook

Meeting Materials

• Draft Agenda (as of April 10, 2024)
• Sponsor & Exhibitor Prospectus
• Terms & Conditions

• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Student Independent News

NUI Galway Student Newspaper

Research shows the importance of Travellers’ mental health in Ireland 

November 8, 2023 By Latisha McCrudden Filed Under: Featured , Opinion , Society

As a member of the Traveller community, suicide and mental health is a major factor for deaths within the Traveller community. Suicide is seven times higher than the national average in the Traveller community as of 2023.  

Every year, suicide is the cause of 11% of all traveller deaths and 82% of Travellers have been directly affected by suicide. The release of ‘Research on Travellers’ views about mental health and suicide’ on 23 October of this year by the HSE, showcases that our community needs more action rather than talk at this stage. 

The research discusses that the need of “curbing discrimination” is essential. Discrimination and racism that is projected upon a community has a direct consequence on the mental health of all members of the community.  

Racism is an insidious health and social determinant that systematically dehumanises the lives of Travellers in Ireland. Racism systematically places a higher value in opportunities in the hands of a specific community and as a direct consequence, unfairly disbenefits another minority community such as the Traveller community.  

Instead, there needs to be a ‘celebrating and reviving Traveller culture’ initiative and improve the access to culturally appropriate mental health care as it is said in the report. There also needs to be consequences for discrimination that does take place against these communities. 

For the Traveller community, the stigma of opening up about mental health needs to be reduced. Conferences, workshops and training about mental health with Travellers need to happen on a regular basis.  

I spoke at a conference on 10 October at Sligo Park Hotel with partnership with Sligo Traveller Group and the HSE and to be able to openly discuss mental health is and what is needed in the future. It was an empowering and eye-opening day and there was no stigma or shame about mental health. 

Professor Margaret Barry from the Health Promotion Research Centre at the University of Galway commented that “the study findings provide an important basis for advancing the promotion of Traveller mental health and wellbeing as an urgent policy priority, including and developing a continuum of Traveller-led services embracing mental health promotion, prevention, treatment and recovery.” 

In addition, some Travellers only feel safe talking about mental health or personal issues with another member of the community. Due to the lack of opportunities that travellers are given and the discrimination that is projected upon them in the workplace where Travellers hide their identity to secure a job. This cannot go on. In the future, Travellers need to hold jobs in the mental health and wellbeing sector so that Travellers can feel that they are in a safe environment and can express themselves. 

Overall, the research is a step forward in the right direction but funding, accessibility and awareness around travellers’ mental health and wellbeing needs to happen now rather than later. The number of members from the Travellers community that have lost their lives in the last few years, even children, is outrageous.  

Change is needed before more lives are lost. The need for Travellers to be looked at as equal citizens of this country, to be embraced and accepted by the rest of the country is the step that is needed. It must be remembered that one person’s actions do not represent an entire community and the painting of all Travellers with the one brush needs to change now. 

Latisha McCrudden

• Latisha McCrudden https://sin.ie/author/latisha-mccrudden/ The power of our generation to effect change 
• Latisha McCrudden https://sin.ie/author/latisha-mccrudden/ Student Diary 
• Latisha McCrudden https://sin.ie/author/latisha-mccrudden/ 2024 the year of making dreams reality 
• Latisha McCrudden https://sin.ie/author/latisha-mccrudden/ Receiving a National Garda Youth Award 

Reader Interactions

Our websites may use cookies to personalize and enhance your experience. By continuing without changing your cookie settings, you agree to this collection. For more information, please see our University Websites Privacy Notice .

UConn Today

• School and College News
• Arts & Culture
• Community Impact
• Entrepreneurship
• Health & Well-Being
• Research & Discovery
• UConn Health
• University Life
• UConn Voices
• University News

April 24, 2024 | Lauren Woods - Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine

UConn Medical Student Wins National Research Poster Competition

Ireoluwatomiwa “Ire” Opayemi was honored at a national meeting of the American College of Physicians

UConn School of Medicine student Ire Opayemi presenting his winning research poster at the American College of Physicians national Internal Medicine Meeting.

Rising fourth-year UConn School of Medicine student Ireoluwatomiwa “Ire” Opayemi was honored by the American College of Physicians at their national Internal Medicine Meeting, held April 18-20 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, for his student-led medical research.

Opayemi’s research poster was on his “Assessment of Medical Students’ Mental Health, Perspectives, Attitudes, and Extracurricular Adaptations due to the USMLE Step 1 Exam Pass/Fail Scoring Change amid the COVID-19 Pandemic” at UConn School of Medicine.

UConn Health Family Medicine physician Dr. Adam Perrin, Faculty Co-Director of Student Affairs and director of Student Wellness at the UConn School of Medicine, served as his faculty mentor and assisted him as principal investigator (PI) for the research project.

In January 2022, the U nited States Medical Licensing Examination ® (USMLE) Step 1 transitioned from a numerical score to a pass/fail scoring system, primarily to reduce the stress associated with the exam. Opayemi’s research explored the impacts of the Step 1 P/F change and compared it to the 2021 survey. It included perspectives, attitudes, and mental health status of medical students; the modifying effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ board studying habits and confidence; and residency competitiveness.

Opayemi’s research study findings revealed a mixed response to the change with a substantial portion of students perceiving a reduction in stress. But the majority expressed increased stress due to residency application pressures. Mental health assessments showed no substantial differences between 2021 and 2023 in depression and anxiety. However, the lack of significant differences observed across different classes highlights the pervasive nature of these issues.

His study findings have already helped his fellow UConn medical students.

“This study has increased the awareness of the mental health impact of Step and has led to significant changes at the place of this study,” reports Opayemi. “This research highlights the importance of continuous attention to the mental well-being of medical students.”

“ I am very proud of Ire’s work,” says Perrin. “The subject matter explored in this project is very much reflective of his focus on the mental health of medical students. Ire is very much about advocating for his classmates, as well as his patients, for the betterment of their mental health.”

Interestingly, Opayemi is a founding member of the UConn Health chapter of Medical Minds Matter , a student-run organization “that seeks to transform the narrative of mental health in the medical field through storytelling, community-building, and grassroots advocacy efforts.” The organization is focused on dispelling the stigma surrounding mental health challenges in medical professionals.

Opayemi is currently wrapping up a year of study devoted to earning the degree of Master of Public Health. He will return to his medical school studies this summer and is on course to graduate, and officially become Dr. Opayemi, in May 2025.

Recent Articles

April 30, 2024

Neag School Class of 2024 Student Profile: Jennette Lopez

Read the article

Neag School Class of 2024 Student Profile: Dale Erickson

Neag School Class of 2024 Student Profile: Molly Cole

Ministers Department of Health and Aged Care

Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention - Speech - 30 April 2024

Read Assistant Minister McBride's speech at the National Suicide Prevention Conference.

The Hon Emma McBride MP Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Assistant Minister Rural and Regional Health

Acknowledgements omitted

Check against delivery

It’s an honour to be here on behalf of the Government.

We value the strong and steadfast advocacy which has come from the suicide prevention sector since we took office nearly two years ago.

This conference is a rallying point for that advocacy, and a coming together of leaders across policy, practice and lived experience.

Bringing together this mix of skills and expertise is vital to effective public policy.

As many of you know, I was a practitioner before I was a policymaker, working in acute adult mental health inpatient units at Wyong Hospital on the Central Coast of NSW.

Which is why I am committed to giving voice to those who don’t always get heard in the processes of government and that’s what you’ve been doing for 25 years. 

I thank you all for your contributions.

National Suicide Prevention Strategy

Many of you will be aware the National Suicide Prevention Office has been working to develop a national suicide prevention strategy which will build on previous advice to Government to inform concrete actions that can be taken to address the drivers of suicidal distress.

I expect they will be consulting publicly on it soon and, indeed, people in this room have already made significant contributions through consultations and working groups.

Additionally, Proud Spirit Australia is developing a sector-led National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Strategy to set a path to work in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and communities to reduce the rates of suicide through culturally safe and responsive solutions. 

The Strategies will guide much needed action across governments and across communities.

What we have heard so far through discussions and consultations is very familiar to you.

The drivers of psychological or suicidal distress reach deep into our communities. 

They expose the fault lines in our lives and the inequalities which we, as a society, too often accept.

The reality is a confluence of economic, cultural and social determinants with individual risk factors, creating risks of suicide.

A whole of government(s) - whole of community - suicide prevention strategy will seek to address these drivers.

It’s no mean feat. The causes of distress are wide ranging and complex.   

That is why we are focusing on addressing the drivers of distress including reducing financial pressure through cost-of living relief.  

In the health portfolio, major government initiatives are helping ease pressure on Australians: bringing bulk-billing back, supporting the health workforce and growing access to free, quality Medicare urgent care services. 

I do want to speak to some specific suicide prevention initiatives which are making a difference on the ground, made possible through a billion-dollar investment in the mental health and suicide prevention system.

There’s funding for digital health services, including crisis support, helplines, and ‘peer warmlines’ where people in distress can call and speak to someone who has been in a similar situation and has a deep understanding of what the caller is going through.

We also fund webchat, clinician-supported online therapy, self-directed education programs and tools, and moderated peer support forums.

This is in addition to almost 40 separate initiatives and projects under the National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program.

I know that many organisations delivering these services are represented here at this conference. Thank you for the important work you are doing.

You may also be familiar with the Targeted Regional Initiatives for Suicide Prevention program, or TRISP.  

We have seen this program deliver place-based interventions around Australia, led by community organisations who understand their regions and the challenges local people might face.

That’s why I’m pleased to announce today a renewed commitment of $21 million in the TRISP program, to be delivered nation-wide through the Government’s 31 Primary Health Networks.  It includes funding for a Suicide Prevention Regional Response Coordinator in each PHN to lead suicide prevention activities across regions and service providers.  

The one-year extension will also focus on translating learnings from the last two years of the Program into building capacity and capability within local communities to prevent suicide.

In addition to this regional approach I do want to emphasise the collaborative nature of our work with state and territory governments in rolling out suicide prevention initiatives, including the South Australian Government. 

Through the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, the Albanese Government is providing financial contributions of over $225 million towards these initiatives to 30 June 2026.

One of these is the distress brief support trials being established in NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia. 

These trials are designed to reflect the experience of people with lived and living experience of distress and suicide.

This model embeds prevention and early intervention by identifying people outside the mental health and suicide prevention system (s) who are experiencing significant and suicidal distress.

The new service model recognises that distress affects different people differently.

That is why a person-centred, connection-focused approach underpins the model.

The trial is based on the Distress Brief Intervention model designed and piloted in Scotland.  

While the Scottish program has focused on frontline service settings, such as emergency departments, police and ambulance, the Australian approach looks to respond to people experiencing distress in community settings.

The Scottish program does not explicitly present itself as a ‘mental health’ or ‘suicide prevention’ support. This has made the available support more accessible for people who do not see their needs in these terms. 

Taking this valuable learning into the Australian context, the Distress Brief Support trial will primarily focus on compassion, connection and wellbeing.

The trial will provide an immediate, compassionate response to people experiencing distress in the community at places such as a legal aid office.  

Individuals will be offered an option for short-term support that is non-clinical and puts connection and the person in distress at the centre of their support.

Importantly, these trial sites are being co-designed with local communities and are being established in Greater Shepparton and the City of Darebin in Victoria, and in the Tablelands Region and the City of Ipswich in Queensland.  

We are finalising the locations in New South Wales with the Minns Government and working closely with the South Australian Government to select a trial site location.

Because we know there are individuals for whom a short, targeted period of support will relieve their distress and their risk of suicide.

I look forward to these trials showing their effectiveness in finding and supporting individuals and their loved ones and showing their effectiveness in findings. 

More broadly, of course, the task of reducing drivers of distress in their structural and systemic forms is a task for us all.

As I have said, the federal Labor Government is hard at work with the policy levers we have.

I give you our ongoing commitment to listening, taking feedback, and working with you as leaders in this sector as we go about further action to reduce suicide and suicidal distress.

And I ask that you all, in your daily work and your advocacy, look for our common goals and for practical ways in which we, together, can achieve them.

Thank you again for your contributions to this work.

• The Hon Emma McBride MP
• Mental health and suicide prevention
• Mental health workforce

Is there anything wrong with this page?

Help us improve health.gov.au

If you would like a response please use the enquiries form instead.

• National Social Inclusion Office
• Intercultural Health
• Travellers and Roma
• Domestic Violence
• Irish Travellers

The National Traveller Mental Health Service

Contact details to access the national traveller mental health service.

Phone: 01 8721094 (Monday – Friday between the hours of 9AM – 5PM, 4PM on Fridays)

Email: [email protected]

The National Traveller Mental Health Service provided by Exchange House has two main elements to its delivery;

1. Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Promotion

This aspect of the service works with Traveller groups such as community and residents groups and Traveller organisations and services, including Primary Healthcare Projects and Traveller Action Groups. This service promotes and supports the development of initiatives which

• reduce the stigma associated with mental health
• promotes suicide prevention
• collaboration with a wide range of services and groups
• inclusion of Travellers in designing the service

Examples of some of Exchange House promotion initiatives include conferences, sports events, creative arts projects and faith based groups.

2. Direct Mental Health Support

This supports individual recovery plans with Travellers experiencing mental health issues. The service offers;

• Psychotherapy (during psychotherapy, you learn about your condition and your moods, feelings, thoughts and behaviours).
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a form of talking therapy which can be used to treat people with a wide range of mental health problems
• Assessment & management of suicidal thoughts and feelings
• Peer support & mentorship

This service is available to all members of the Traveller community across Ireland. Individual counselling and consultation can be done over the phone, online or face to face (where restrictions permit).

The team is made up of Travellers and non-Travellers who work together to provide a holistic range of services to best suit individuals and groups from the Traveller community.

Members of the Traveller community can access the service by phoning our duty line Monday – Friday between the hours of 9AM – 5PM (4PM on Fridays). External services can also refer clients to Exchange House by phoning the service to receive a referral form via email.  

For information about the National Social Inclusion Office call: 01 778 5168, or Email: [email protected].

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Counseling center, you are here.

• 2024 Dennis H. May Diversity Conference on Mental Health and Higher Education

Registration, Lodging, CEUs

Conference registration.

Registration fees for the Dennis H. May Diversity Conference on Mental Health and Higher Education are as follows. Registration includes a banquet dinner on Sunday evening, a continental breakfast, and lunch on Monday. 2023 registration fees are listed below. Registration will close on September 27, 2024.

Registration will be open in May 2024. Please check back soon! 

Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Up to seven Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be offered at the conference for Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC), and Psychologists. If you are interested in earning CEUs, please make sure to designate this when you register.

I-Hotel and Conference Center 1900 S. First Street Champaign, Illinois 61820 217-819-5000

Travel Information

Champaign is located near two major interstates—I-74 and I-57. We are approximately 150 miles south of Chicago, 100 miles west of Indianapolis, and 175 miles northeast of Saint Louis.

If you need to park on campus, the University’s Parking Department offers several options .

Willard Airport (Airport Code: CMI) is approximately 5 miles from campus and is easily accessible by cab and bus. Currently direct flights into Willard are from Dallas/Fort Worth and O'Hare Airports.

AMTRAK offers service between downtown Chicago and Champaign.

Peoria Charter  offers bus transportation from both Chicago airports to campus (the ISR stop is just a block from the campus venue.

Search form

Combined Shape .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} SMS Main navigation Things to Do Attractions & Tours Arts & Culture Outdoors & Wellness Shopping Budget Family Hidden Gems Luxury Pet-Friendly Eat & Drink Bars Clubs Dine LA Restaurant Week Restaurants Business Spotlight Find Events Itineraries Where to Stay Celebrate LA Heritage AAPI Heritage Black LA Latino Heritage LGBTQ+ Tourist Information Meetings About LA Tourism Travel Trade Membership Business Spotlight Media Research Careers Today's must read Hidden Gems of Los Angeles Log in Search Search Three days of leadership-building, organization-boosting learning from the best minds in health care – that’s what awaits you at NatCon23 from May 1-3 in Los Angeles, California. Join us for the largest conference in mental health and substance use treatment as we celebrate our shared commitment to transform communities and save lives.

unwto tourism highlights 2022

Un tourism | bringing the world closer.

Unwto 2021: a year in review, 2021: tourism united, resilient and determined.

2021 has been a year of learning and adapting for tourism. It has proven that only by working together can the sector overcome challenges and embrace opportunities.

Gathering the global tourism community and developing concrete actions, UNWTO has led tourism’s response with the vision of not only restarting, but doing so in a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable way.

January - March

As global tourism faced up to a second year of unprecedented crisis , UNWTO began 2021 by counting the cost so far . At the same time, however, the emergence of vaccines brought hope . The Global Tourism Crisis Committee met to explore what this meant for safe travel and the restart of tourism, while the announcement of the winners of the UNWTO Global Start-up Competition recognized the role culture and creativity will play in tourism’s restart and recovery .  

April - June

Collaboration and innovation were the focusat the start of the second quarter. UNWTO partnered with IATA on a new Destination Tracker to give both tourists and destinations clear, impartial and trusted advice. And a new Start-up Competition was launched to find the best ideas for accelerating rural development through tourism. In May, the launch of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO generated significant interest from Members in every global region. 

July - September

As destinations in Europe welcomed tourists back for the peak summer season, UNWTO highlighted the role of  digital solutions for the safe restart of the sector. But UNWTO also looked ahead, to a more sustainable future , working with key partners to  reduce plastic waste and consumption across every part of the sector. Together, we celebrated World Tourism Day around the theme of Tourism for Inclusive Growth, a message of solidarity and determination that was echoed on a global scale.

October - December

The final quarter of 2021 began with cautious optimism as UNWTO’s Barometer showed signs of improvement in tourist arrival numbers during the summer season in the northern hemisphere. A new partnership with Netflix will bring the message of tourism as a driver of opportunity to a massive global audience, while in November, UNWTO was tourism’s voice at COP26 and signatories to the landmark Glasgow Declaration keep growing. Finally, against the backdrop of the UNWTO General Assembly , the programme of work for the coming biennium was approved and 77% of Members voted to secure a second mandate for the Secretary-General from 2022-2025.

Growing and Moving Forward

UNWTO brings together political leaders from across the globe to deliver a strong, coordinated response. Governments, destinations, fellow UN agencies and international organizations met at key international events joining efforts to rethink tourism. Institutional coordination has proven crucial to find the solutions that build a smarter, greener and safer tourism.

Leaving Nobody Behind

The pledge to ‘ leave nobody behind ’ means nobody should miss out : Not now as we support the sector in the face of crisis, and not in the future as tourism starts again. Tourism is a proven driver of equality and opportunity. And that’s why we turn words into actions, delivering guidelines and action plans , to ensure everyone can enjoy the opportunities tourism brings.

A Shared Vision

Advancing the transformation of the tourism sector , partnerships are the only way forward. In 2021, UNWTO signed agreements with international organizations and the private sector to step our vision for the future of tourism: innovation , education , sustainability , green investment , rural development.

From business as usual to Covid-19

Looking to the future

• Regional Support Office for Asia and the Pacific (RSOAP)
• Member States in Asia and the Pacific
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM OBSERVATORIES (INSTO)

World Tourism Barometer: September 2022

UNWTO updates World Tourism Barometer and reports international tourism back to 60% of pre-pandemic levels from January to July 2022

Below are excerpts from the September 2022 release of the UNWTO Tourism Barometer :

• The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel, especially in the months of June and July which are part of the Northern Hemisphere summer season. The easing or lifting of travel restrictions in an increasing number of countries also contributed to boost results.
• International tourist arrivals almost tripled (+172%) in January-July 2022 compared to the same period of 2021. Numbers climbed from -64% in January 2022 (versus 2019) to -28% in July, the strongest month since the start of the pandemic.
• Asia and the Pacific (+165%) saw arrivals more than double in the first seven months of 2022, though they remained 86% below 2019 levels.
• The ongoing recovery can also be seen in outbound tourism spending from major source markets. Expenditure from France was at -12% in January-July 2022 compared to 2019 while spending from Germany stood at -14%. International tourism spending remained at -10% in Belgium, -23% in Italy and -26% in the United States.
• The uncertain economic environment seems to have reversed prospects for a return to pre-pandemic levels in the near term. 61% of UNWTO Panel of Experts now see a potential return of international arrivals to 2019 levels in 2024 or later while those indicating a return to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 has diminished (27%) compared to the May survey (48%).

Know more about the global tourism sector performance from January to July 2022 by checking the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer Volume 20, Issue 5 .

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Regional Support Office in Asia and the Pacific (RSOAP)

Rsoap a to z.

• Sustainable Tourism Observatories(INSTO)

UNWTO A to Z

• About UNWTO
• Affiliate Members
• Member States
• Tourism in the 2030 Agenda
• World Tourism Day
• Technical Cooperation
• ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
• MIDDLE EAST
• RESOURCES/SERVICES
• Sustainable Development of Tourism
• Ethics, Culture and Social Responsibility
• Market Intelligence
• Tourism Data Dashboard
• Publications
• UNWTO Academy

Partners links

© UNWTO Regional Support Office for Asia and the Pacific (RSOAP)

• Course Catalog

TOURISM TRENDS 2022

11 Aug TOURISM TRENDS 2022

The situation for tourism remains rather unusual as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The crisis has marked a significant change for everyone, and above all for tourism, one of sectors hit hardest by the virus. 2020 was the year in which international tourism came to a near-complete standstill, and the only alternatives were domestic and local tourism.

2021 has seen some improvements, but only in a very subtle way as restrictions are still in place and many countries keep their borders fully or partially closed.

It is difficult to make an estimate for 2022 as it is not known how the pandemic will evolve. However, it is possible to talk about the new tourism trends that are likely to emerge over the coming year: – International travel with restrictions still maintained by both destinations and airlines in order to offer 100% security to the consumer.

– Reinforcement of COVID-19 testing; two years after the pandemic, COVID testing will still be in place as a preventive measure. – Conscious travel will be advocated. Travel to more distant destinations, but with prolonged durations of stay, as consumers look to enjoy as much of each place they visit as possible. – Green travel. Climate change is a problem that is present and growing. Consumers now are much more responsible and aware of the reality they live in on daily basis.

– A new trend is the “ed-ventures”. It is about combining education and holidays for the youngest members of the family. While adults may need to telework or attend meetings, their children can be doing workshops and learning in a playful way.

• Client log in

Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO (Russia)

In 1993 "Elektrostal" was transformed into an open joint stock company. The factory occupies a leading position among the manufacturers of high quality steel. The plant is a producer of high-temperature nickel alloys in a wide variety. It has a unique set of metallurgical equipment: open induction and arc furnaces, furnace steel processing unit, vacuum induction, vacuum- arc furnaces and others. The factory has implemented and certified quality management system ISO 9000, received international certificates for all products. Elektrostal today is a major supplier in Russia starting blanks for the production of blades, discs and rolls for gas turbine engines. Among them are companies in the aerospace industry, defense plants, and energy complex, automotive, mechanical engineering and instrument-making plants.

Headquarters Ulitsa Zheleznodorozhnaya, 1 Elektrostal; Moscow Oblast; Postal Code: 144002

Contact Details: Purchase the Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO report to view the information.

Website: http://elsteel.ru

EMIS company profiles are part of a larger information service which combines company, industry and country data and analysis for over 145 emerging markets.

To view more information, Request a demonstration of the EMIS service

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

11 Facts About National Numeracy Day May 22nd

9 Facts About Workers Memorial Day April 28th

40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

• Victor Mukhin

Victor M. Mukhin was born in 1946 in the town of Orsk, Russia. In 1970 he graduated the Technological Institute in Leningrad. Victor M. Mukhin was directed to work to the scientific-industrial organization "Neorganika" (Elektrostal, Moscow region) where he is working during 47 years, at present as the head of the laboratory of carbon sorbents.     Victor M. Mukhin defended a Ph. D. thesis and a doctoral thesis at the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia (in 1979 and 1997 accordingly). Professor of Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Scientific interests: production, investigation and application of active carbons, technological and ecological carbon-adsorptive processes, environmental protection, production of ecologically clean food.   

Title : Active carbons as nanoporous materials for solving of environmental problems

Quick links.

• Conference Brochure
• Tentative Program

2022 has been the year to rethink tourism. Countries around the world turned UNWTO's vision for a greener, smarter and more inclusive sector into real action. 2020 showed the relevance of tourism for sustainable development. 2021 laid the foundations for the transformation of the sector. In 2022, we made it happen. 2022 began on a positive note.

According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourism saw a strong rebound in the first five months of 2022, with almost 250 million international arrivals recorded. This compares to 77 million arrivals from January to May 2021 and means that the sector has recovered almost half (46%) of pre-pandemic 2019 levels. UN ...

International Tourism Highlights, 2023 Edition - The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism (2020-2022) ISBN (printed version): 978-92-844-2497-9 ISBN (electronic version): 978-92-844-2498-6 DOI: 10.18111/9789284424986 Published by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Madrid, Spain First published: September 2023 Revised and updated: October 2023

Find out the latest updates from the UNWTO on tourism trends, challenges and opportunities in 2022 and beyond. Learn about the UNWTO's activities, projects and partnerships in various regions and topics, such as sustainable tourism, gastronomy, investment and education.

International Tourism and COVID-19. Export revenues from international tourism dropped 62% in 2020 and 59% in 2021, versus 2019 (real terms) and then rebounded in 2022, remaining 34% below pre-pandemic levels. The total loss in export revenues from tourism amounts to USD 2.6 trillion for that three-year period. Go to Dashboard.

According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourist arrivals almost tripled in January to July 2022 (+172%) compared to the same period of 2021. This means t he sector recovered almost 60% of pre-pandemic levels. The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel as well as the easing or lifting ...

The time is now to seize this opportunity to rethink how we do tourism. The official World Tourism Day celebration will be held in Bali, Indonesia, on 27 September, highlighting the shift towards tourism being recognized as a crucial pillar of development. Wonderful Indonesia - Witness the 42nd World Tourism Day 2022 in Bali, Indonesia!

In terms of tourist numbers, the year 2022 is expected to close with over 900 million international arrivals, despite growing challenges pointing to a softening of the recovery pace. International tourist arrivals: 2020, 2021 and Scenarios for 2022 (monthly change over 2019,%) Source UNWTO World Tourism Barometer: November 2022 Press Release.

January - March. As global tourism faced up to a second year of unprecedented crisis, UNWTO began 2021 by counting the cost so far.At the same time, however, the emergence of vaccines brought hope.The Global Tourism Crisis Committee met to explore what this meant for safe travel and the restart of tourism, while the announcement of the winners of the UNWTO Global Start-up Competition ...

Below are excerpts from the latest World Tourism Barometer May 2022 issue: According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourism saw a 182% year-on-year increase in January-March 2022, with destinations worldwide welcoming an estimated 117 million international arrivals compared to 41 million in Q1 2021.

The UNWTO Elibrary is an online service from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) with a broad coverage of tourism and related subject areas. ... International Tourism Highlights, 2023 Edition - The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism (2020-2022) Revised and updated, October 2023. Released: December 2023.

The 7th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will be held from Monday, December 12 to Thursday, December 15, 2022 (4 days).

The economic contribution of tourism (tourism direct gross domestic product) is estimated at US$1.9 trillion in 2021, above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020, but still well below the pre-pandemic value of US$ 3.5 trillion. The latest UNWTO Panel of Experts survey indicates that 61% of tourism professionals expect better performance in 2022 than in 2021.

Below are relevant points to the July 2022 World Tourism Barometer: Nearly 250 million international trips were recorded worldwide in the first five months of the year, more than three times the number of arrivals recorded in the same period of 2021 (77 million). Robust performance is also reflected in hotel occupancy rates.

2022-10-28. Below are excerpts from the September 2022 release of the UNWTO Tourism Barometer: The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel, especially in the months of June and July which are part of the Northern Hemisphere summer season. The easing or lifting of travel restrictions in an increasing number of ...

International tourism continues to outpace the global economy. 2. Driven by a relatively strong global economy, a growing middle class in emerging economies, technological advances, new business models, affordable travel costs and visa facilitation, international tourist arrivals grew 5% in 2018 to reach the 1.4 billion mark.

UNWTO Tourism Academy | TOURISM TRENDS 2022. The situation for tourism remains rather unusual as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis has marked a significant change for everyone, and above all for tourism, one of sectors hit hardest by the virus. 2020 was the year in which international tourism came to a near-complete ...

International Tourism Highlights, 2023 Edition - The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism (2020-2022) Revised and updated, October 2023 Published: December 2023 Pages: 32

International Tourism Highlights, 2020 Edition. Published: January 2021 Pages: 23. eISBN: 978-92-844-2245-6 | ISBN: 978-92-844-2244-9. Abstract: 2019 was another year of strong growth, though international arrivals grew below the exceptional rates seen in 2017 (+7%) and 2018 (+6%). Demand was somewhat weaker for travel to advanced economy ...

Main Activities: Iron and Steel Mills and Ferroalloy Manufacturing | Nonferrous Metal (except Copper and Aluminum) Rolling, Drawing, and Extruding. Full name: Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO Profile Updated: February 22, 2024. Buy our report for this company USD 29.95 Most recent financial data: 2022 Available in: English & Russian ...

40 Facts About Elektrostal. Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to ...

Catalysis Conference is a networking event covering all topics in catalysis, chemistry, chemical engineering and technology during October 19-21, 2017 in Las Vegas, USA. Well noted as well attended meeting among all other annual catalysis conferences 2018, chemical engineering conferences 2018 and chemistry webinars.

In the city of Elektrostal in Russia, a drone attack occurred. It's reported that no one was injured as a result of the incident. Additional details, including the particulars of the attack, potential motives or responsible parties, have not been provided. However, the fact that a drone was used as a means of attack underscores

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

15 men brought to military enlistment office after mass brawl in Moscow Oblast

Local security forces brought 15 men to a military enlistment office after a mass brawl at a warehouse of the Russian Wildberries company in Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast on Feb. 8, Russian Telegram channel Shot reported .

29 people were also taken to police stations. Among the arrested were citizens of Kyrgyzstan.

A mass brawl involving over 100 employees and security personnel broke out at the Wildberries warehouse in Elektrostal on Dec. 8.

Read also: Moscow recruits ‘construction brigades’ from Russian students, Ukraine says

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron !

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine

Recommended Stories

Formula 1: miami grand prix sends cease and desist letter to prevent donald trump fundraiser during race.

Race organizers say they'll revoke a Trump fundraiser's suite license if he holds an event for the former president on Sunday at the race.

2024 NFL Draft grades: Denver Broncos earn one of our lowest grades mostly due to one pick

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Broncos' 2024 draft.

NFL Draft: Packers fan upset with team's 1st pick, and Lions fans hilariously rubbed it in

Not everyone was thrilled with their team's draft on Thursday night.

NFL Draft grades for all 32 teams | Zero Blitz

Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab join forces to recap the draft in the best way they know how: letter grades! Fitz and Frank discuss all 32 teams division by division as they give a snapshot of how fans should be feeling heading into the 2024 season. The duo have key debates on the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, Los Angeles Rams, New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders and more.

Chiefs sign Travis Kelce to new contract that reportedly makes him highest-paid TE in NFL

Travis Kelce has reportedly gotten a raise.

NFL Draft: Bears take Iowa punter, who immediately receives funny text from Caleb Williams

There haven't been many punters drafted in the fourth round or higher like Tory Taylor just was. Chicago's No. 1 overall pick welcomed him in unique fashion.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, after Wrexham success, purchase stake in Liga MX’s Necaxa

Reynolds and McElhenney are the latest celebrities to invest in Necaxa in recent years.

The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff is here — and it already has problems

There is cause for excitement around the new playoff format. There's also lots of complaints and criticism to go around.

Joel Embiid not happy that Knicks fans took over 76ers home playoff games: It 'pisses me off'

"I don't think that should happen. It's not OK."

Rivian put out a feeler to test buyers' willingness to spend on a new R2

Members of the Rivian subreddit posted details of a survey they received, asking how much they'd be willing to spend on different R2 configurations.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones compared his 2024 NFL Draft strategy to robbing a bank

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made an amusing analogy when asked why the team selected three offensive lineman in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The stock market has a 'systemic problem'

Rising Treasury yields are once again a headwind for stocks. Strategists don't see relief coming unless Fed Chair Jerome Powell is surprisingly dovish in his press conference on Wednesday.

2024 NFL Draft grades: Kansas City Chiefs get even richer with one of the best hauls this year

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Chiefs' 2024 draft.

Jamie Dimon is worried the US economy is headed back to the 1970s

JPMorgan's CEO is concerned the US economy could be in for a repeat of the stagflation that hampered the country during the 1970s.

2024 NFL Draft grades: Baltimore Ravens do what they do best — let good players fall into their laps

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Ravens' 2024 draft.

2024 NFL Draft grades: Minnesota Vikings risked a lot to get J.J. McCarthy and Dallas Turner

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Vikings' 2024 draft.

2024 NFL Draft: Fantasy football fits we love — and some we're questioning

With the NFL Draft in the books, fantasy football Matt Harmon breaks down the landing spots he loved to see, and those he's not a fan of.

2024 NFL Draft grades: Los Angeles Chargers begin Jim Harbaugh's roster restock with very good class

Yahoo Sports' Charles McDonald breaks down the Chargers' 2024 draft.

Ford Ranger vs Chevy Colorado: 2024 Comparison

Expert advice comparing the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado and 2024 Ford Ranger's power, towing, mpg, safety, price and specs, including the Raptor and ZR2.

Broncos, Jets, Lions and Texans have new uniforms. Let's rank them

Which new uniforms are winners this season?

About | Registration | Hotel + Travel | Award Nominations |  FAQs

about the conference

The Active Minds Mental Health Conference is the nation’s leading mental health conference for young adults.

FOR STUDENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS

This highly anticipated conference will bring together 400 young adults and mental health advocates from across the country to share ideas and advance knowledge about mental health education, advocacy, and awareness.

The conference will showcase the most innovative and effective approaches to supporting young adult well-being and changing the conversation about mental health on campuses, in schools, in the transition to the workplace, and within our communities.

EXCEPTIONAL SPEAKERS

Highlights of the conference include inspiring keynote presentations and breakout sessions led by esteemed mental health, higher education, and other experts. The 2024 speaker list will be announced soon.

WHO ATTENDS

Young Adult Leaders ages 18-25+ and all who are committed to mental health awareness and changing the way mental health is valued and prioritized.

Active Minds Chapter Members and Alumni from colleges, universities, and high schools.

Active Minds Chapter Advisors and Youth Champions who are committed to supporting the mobilization of youth and young adults for mental health calls to action.

Student Members of Partner Organizations including fraternity and sorority leaders, student athletes, service-minded students, student body presidents, and more.

Leading Experts and Industry Leaders with tangible opportunities available for young adult advocates to learn, grow, and mobilize for mental health.

Visit the 2023 Conference Digital Program to learn more about the types of speakers, sessions, and interactive elements you can expect in 2024.

registration

Registration for the 2024 Conference is now open!

Early Bird Registration (through June 28) – $110 for Students; $200 for General.

Regular Registration (June 29-July 25 or sell out) – $150 for Students; $240 for General. Online registration will be closed after July 25.

Register Now!

If you are registering more than four attendees , please contact Emelyne Ndikumasabo at [email protected] to process the group registration. We do offer a 20% group registration discount when registering more than four attendees.

Active Minds aims to provide a conference that is accessible to people who are passionate about changing the culture around mental health, despite potential financial barriers.  Stipend funding is available for youth and young adults (ages 18 and older) through an application process to assist the financial barrier that prevents youth and young adults from attending our Mental Health Conference located in Washington, DC.  Please see the FAQ page for additional information.  Those interested in funding should complete this application .  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until they are closed on June 3, 2024.

The registration fee covers the cost to attend two days of the 2024 Active Minds Mental Health Conference, conference materials, and four meals.

conference speakers and breakout session presenters

The call for proposals for the 2024 Active Minds Active Minds Mental Health Conference has closed . If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected] .

conference award nominations

The call for nominations for awards that will be announced at the 2024 Active Minds Mental Health Conference is now open. In addition to the awards that have been given out at previous conferences, this year brings six new awards. These award opportunities include: Chapter of the Year, Student Leader of the Year, Chapter Advisor of the Year, Transformational Change Award, Health Equity Award, Chapter Jumpstart Award, Workplace Development Award, Cutting Edge Advocacy Award, Cultivating Connection Award, Community Service Award, Creative Use of Social Media Award, and the Youth Champion Award. You can learn all the details for each award by clicking the button below. The submission deadline is Friday, April 19 at 8pm ET . If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected] .

Submit Nominations

Sponsorship Opportunities

Your company or organization is invited to become a sponsor at the 2024 Active Minds Mental Health Conference. Please download the sponsorship packet for more information. If you have any additional questions, please contact us at [email protected] to discuss partnership and sponsorship opportunities. We’re happy to work with you!

Sponsorship Packet

hotel and travel information

Capital Hilton Hotel

1001 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036

Join us at the Capital Hilton where we’ll gather for all Conference sessions. Combining style, historical character, and an enviable location, the Capital Hilton is located just blocks from the capital’s best attractions including The White House, the National Mall, and a multitude of museums. With comfortable rooms and suites and a great restaurant, the hotel offers all you need for an unforgettable trip to DC.

Book your room at the Capital Hilton to receive our special conference rate, only available until our conference block is booked.

how to get to the Capital Hilton

Capital Hilton is located two blocks north of the White House on 16th Street and K Street, in Northwest Washington, DC. The hotel is easily accessible to three different Metro Stations: Farragut North (Red Line), Farragut West (Blue and Orange Lines), and McPherson Square (Blue and Orange Lines).

The hotel offers valet parking only but there are self-park garages nearby, which are not operated by the hotel.

nearby airports

• Reagan National Airport
• Washington Dulles International Airport
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport

View map and directions from local airports

View Frequently Asked Questions

Back to top

Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.

Ready to Register?

Sign-up for updates

Traveller Mental Health Conference on 22nd November

The National Action Group for LGBTI+ Traveller and Roma Rights had a stand at the Traveller Mental Health Conference. We were happy to see a huge interest in our resources and the newly published Peer-Research 'Unveiling Inequality'. With the research showing that LGBTI+ Travellers experience high levels of homelesseness, harassment and mental health issues, we want to make sure their mental health needs are considered.

Minister Mary Butler and all CHO areas were provided with the Peer-Research report 'Unveiling Inequality' and during a workshop we were able to engage in conversation with wonderful staff members from Traveller organsations around the country.

Transforming the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses.

Información en español

Celebrating 75 Years! Learn More >>

• Science News
• Meetings and Events
• Social Media
• Press Resources
• Email Updates
• Innovation Speaker Series

25th NIMH Conference on Mental Health Services Research (MHSR)

On August 2-3, 2022, the National Institute of Mental Health virtually convened the 25th NIMH Conference on Mental Health Services Research (MHSR) titled: “Transforming Challenges into New Opportunities.”

This premier meeting highlighted recent scientific advances and opportunities for the next generation of high-impact research to drive mental health care improvement. MHSR 2022 attracted over 1,800 leading mental health services researchers, clinicians, mental health advocates, and federal and non-federal partners from 91 countries.

The conference featured keynote speakers Drs. Leana Wen and Ruth Shim who addressed unique aspects of mental health equity. The plenary panels focused on forecasting the future of mental health services research and top federal leaders discussed current mental health priorities and future opportunities. A total of 18 symposia showcased research findings poised to transform mental health care over the next decade.

Conference Agenda

Two-Day Agenda

Watch the full playlist of videos   from MHSR.

Day 1 Keynote Address: Dr. Leana Wen – Addressing Mental Health and Health Equity

Read the transcript .

Day 2 Keynote Address: Dr. Ruth Shim – Achieving Equity in Mental Health Services Research

Sponsored by.

The National Institute of Mental Health Division of Services and Intervention Research

• Victor Mukhin

Victor M. Mukhin was born in 1946 in the town of Orsk, Russia. In 1970 he graduated the Technological Institute in Leningrad. Victor M. Mukhin was directed to work to the scientific-industrial organization "Neorganika" (Elektrostal, Moscow region) where he is working during 47 years, at present as the head of the laboratory of carbon sorbents.     Victor M. Mukhin defended a Ph. D. thesis and a doctoral thesis at the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia (in 1979 and 1997 accordingly). Professor of Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Scientific interests: production, investigation and application of active carbons, technological and ecological carbon-adsorptive processes, environmental protection, production of ecologically clean food.   

Title : Active carbons as nanoporous materials for solving of environmental problems

Quick links.

• Conference Brochure
• Tentative Program