Mark Mathews will become the second executive director to lead NAMI Greater Mississippi Valley replacing Angela Gallagher, the Quad Cities nonprofit announced Tuesday, Dec. 10.
In a news release, the board of directors said Mr. Mathews will succeed Ms. Gallagher, who is retiring at the end of December. He brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, having previously served as the executive director of the Child Abuse Council. It’s now known as EveryChild.
According to NAMI, his passion for mental health and his commitment to serving the community make him an ideal fit for this role.
“We are excited about the future of NAMI Greater Mississippi Valley and the opportunities to further our mission of providing support, education, and advocacy to individuals and families affected by mental illness,” NAMI Board President Brandon Kutmas said in the release. “We will continue to offer our renowned, evidence-based, peer-led support groups and programs while working to increase attendance, expand to new locations, and grow our volunteer base.”
Ms. Gallagher became NAMI’s first executive director when she took the role part-time in 2016.
“We are incredibly grateful for Angela’s tireless dedication and the positive impact she has made on countless lives,” Mr. Kutmas added. “Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening our organization and expanding our services from a kitchen table organization to the community leader it is today.”
NAMI Greater Mississippi Valley is an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness National Organization. Located in Davenport, the local organization empowers people living with mental illness toward recovery and behavioral health while supporting families impacted with education, advocacy and support. It serves a six-county region in eastern Iowa and western Illinois.
NAMI education and support programs complement the work of health care professionals, social workers and school counselors.
