The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has announced the election of its 2026-2027 board of directors. These leaders possess strong community connections and personal experiences, all dedicated to making mental health a key national focus.

"In this critical moment for mental health across the country, effective guidance is essential," stated Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., CEO of NAMI. "The new board members offer valuable experience, perspectives, and dedication to steer the organization. They join an existing team of skilled directors to further mental health resources for families and communities, ensuring no one deals with mental illness in isolation."

Jeff Fladen, MSW, remains president of the NAMI Board of Directors for the 2026-2027 term. With a background as a mental health advocate and past executive director of NAMI Tennessee, Fladen's expertise covers clinical services, nonprofit management, and policy work. His previous positions include therapist, crisis counselor, case manager, and psychiatric program director.

"Starting another term as NAMI board president, I am motivated by the commitment of our volunteers, supporters, and leaders nationwide," Fladen remarked. "We will build upon our achievements, turning personal stories into initiatives, advocacy, and enduring impact."

The board election wrapped up on June 10. New members will hold three-year terms, with a maximum of two consecutive terms allowed.

"NAMI's progress relies on committed leaders who contribute their time, knowledge, and enthusiasm for our goals," noted Gillison. "As we anticipate future possibilities, we also acknowledge and appreciate departing board members Laklieshia Izzard, Sukhi Sahni, and Dhanu Sannesy for their outstanding contributions. Their efforts have influenced NAMI's initiatives and will aid those we support for years ahead."

The 2026-2027 NAMI Board of Directors members and their nominating groups are listed below.

Executive Committee

President: Jeff Fladen, MSW - NAMI Tennessee
1st Vice President: Barbara Ricci, B.A., MPA - NAMI New York City
2nd Vice President: Mary Kay Battaglia - NAMI Wisconsin
Treasurer: Linh Preston, M.A., MPA - NAMI Indiana
Secretary: Rebecca Kiessling, CAE - NAMI Northern Virginia
President Emerita: Shirley Holloway, Ph.D. - NAMI Alaska

Newly Elected and Re-Elected Board Members

Devika Bhushan, M.D. - NAMI California
Victoria Harris, M.D., MPH - NAMI Jefferson County (WA)
Rishika "Rish" Rohatgi (NextGen Director)
April Simpkins - NAMI Piedmont Tri-County (SC)
Ronald T. Vera, J.D. - NAMI Greater Los Angeles County (CA)

Continuing Board Members

Elise Banks-Lovely, M.S., LPC - NAMI Texas
Mary Kay Battaglia - NAMI Wisconsin
Richard Callahan (Affiliated Presidents' Council Elected Director)
Jeff Fladen, MSW - NAMI Tennessee
Kerry Graves - NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore (MD)
Rebecca Kiessling, CAE - NAMI Northern Virginia
Ray Lay, CHW/CRS - NAMI Indiana
Babu George Mathew - NAMI Colorado
Benjamin McAfee - NAMI Hall County (GA)
Linh Preston, M.A., MPA - NAMI Indiana
Jeremiah Rainville, CCHW, CPRS, CCSP, CAMHFA (Peer Leadership Council Elected Director)

Barbara Ricci, B.A., MPA - NAMI New York City
Glenda Wrenn Gordon, M.D., MSHP - NAMI Georgia
Davy Yue (NextGen Director)

Appointed Members

Ruth-Ann Huvane - At-Large, NAMI California
Nathan Romano, MBC - At-Large, NAMI New York City
Darien Wright, MBA, CPA - At-Large, NAMI Maryland

The National Alliance on Mental Illness is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Join the conversation on NAMI platforms including its website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

SOURCE National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)