alaska state captain - national council...about brunilda: brunilda’s areas of focus include child...

53
Alaska State Captain Tom Chard Executive Director Alaska Behavioral Health Association E-mail Address: [email protected] Phone: (907) 523-0376 Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two About the Alaska Behavioral Health Association: The Alaska Behavioral Health Association (ABHA) is the trade organization representing behavioral health providers in the State of Alaska. The Association was formed in 1996 to help improve the delivery of substance abuse and mental health treatment services in Alaska. With leadership from over 50 community mental health and substance abuse treatment providers across the state, we offer a diverse perspective with the common interest of providing access to the best quality, cost-effective behavioral health treatment available.

Upload: others

Post on 10-Aug-2020

4 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Alaska State Captain

Tom Chard Executive Director

Alaska Behavioral Health Association

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (907) 523-0376

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two

About the Alaska Behavioral Health Association: The Alaska Behavioral Health

Association (ABHA) is the trade organization representing behavioral health providers

in the State of Alaska. The Association was formed in 1996 to help improve the

delivery of substance abuse and mental health treatment services in Alaska. With

leadership from over 50 community mental health and substance abuse treatment

providers across the state, we offer a diverse perspective with the common interest

of providing access to the best quality, cost-effective behavioral health treatment

available.

Page 2: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Alabama State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Alabama currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Alabama’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Malka Berro Phone: (202)684-7472 Email: [email protected]

Page 3: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Arkansas State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals.

Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do:

• Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Arkansas currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Arkansas’ State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Shelley Starkey Phone: (202)684-3728 Email: [email protected]

Page 4: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Arizona State Captain Profile Bahney Dedolph

Deputy Director Arizona Council of Human Services Providers

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (602) 252-9363

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: First Year

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Getting the wonderful materials from the National Council and feeling ready to talk about all of the issues knowledgeably.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Getting through another state legislative session and preparing for 2020

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Wear comfortable shoes, expect to meet with congressional staffers, don't worry about knowing everything because you already know more about behavioral health than most of the people you will talk to on Capitol Hill, and have fun--this is democracy in action.

Page 5: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

California State Captain Profile Sara Kahoalii

Director of Programs and Operations California Council of Community Behavioral Health Agencies

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (916) 557-1166

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Meeting with representatives was exciting, but my favorite

moment had to be the pep talk prior and the excitement of being with others on the same

mission of advocating for behavioral health!

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: During last year’s Hill Day I was honored to

receive a certificate from the National Council for being the “Year’s Top State Captain for

Having the Most Congressional Meetings.”

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Practice your talking points, wear comfy shoes,

but relax and enjoy the experience.

Page 6: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Colorado State Captain Profile Moses Gur

Director of Policy & Member Engagement Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Council

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (720) 573-9368

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two

Favorite Hill Day Moment: 2017 was my first Hill Day and my first time as State Captain; it’s

hard to pick just one favorite moment because the whole experience was so inspiring and

enjoyable! If I had to pick, I would pick Colorado’s joint senator meeting where we got to talk

about behavioral health issues with both of our senators.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: I was honored to be named a 2017 Top State

Captain by the National Council. Back home, I am incredibly proud of the work that CBHC

engaged in to end the use of jails as a placement option for an individual on a mental health

hold.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Have fun! This is such a rare experience to have

your voice heard and to advocate for an issue you feel passionately about; it’s easy to feel

intimated but don’t forget to enjoy the experience!

Page 7: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Connecticut State Captain Profile Brunilda Ferraj

Director of Policy Research & Organizational Initiatives Connecticut Community Providers Association

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (860)525-5080

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid

and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a Master of Social Work degree with a

concentration in Policy Practice from the University of Connecticut School Of Social Work

and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Rhode Island. Prior to

joining The Alliance, Brunilda worked as a researcher at the University of Connecticut

conducting program evaluations.

About the Connecticut Community Providers Association: CCPA represents organizations that

provide services and supports for children and adults with disabilities and significant

challenges, including people with substance use disorders, mental illness, and developmental

and physical disabilities. CCPA operates three divisions: Adult Behavioral Health, Children's

Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and Developmental Disabilities. It advocates at the

state legislature and with state agencies for community human service providers.

Page 8: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

District of Columbia Captain Profile Lanada Williams Program Coordinator

Department of Behavioral Health

E-mail Address: [email protected] Phone: Please email Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two Favorite Hill Day Moment: Collaborating with advocates to create memories in 2018!

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Being a panel member of the mental health briefing for Congresswoman Kelly (D-IL-02), one of the two co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Realize it is your time to be of service to your community! This is not the time to “play small” – the world is waiting to hear your voice!

Page 9: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Delaware State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Delaware currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Delaware’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Katiri Zuluaga Phone: (202)849-4922 Email: [email protected]

Page 10: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Florida State Captain Mark Fontaine Executive Director

Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (850) 878-2196

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

About the Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association: FADAA, incorporated in 1981, is

a non-profit membership association representing substance abuse prevention and

treatment providers, managing entities, and community anti-drug coalitions. FADAA's

mission is to serve its members by advancing addiction and co-occurring treatment,

prevention, and research through communications, professional development, and

public policy leadership.

Page 11: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Georgia State Captain Profile Wendy Farmer

President & CEO Behavioral Health Link

E-mail Address: [email protected] Number of Prior Years as State Captain: First year

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Collaborated with other crisis services providers in support of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Improvement Act with the goal of creating and funding a national three-digit number for behavioral health crisis.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Just bring your passion for this cause and be prepared for two days of advocacy and learning from one another!

Page 12: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Hawaii State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Hawaii currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Hawaii’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Malka Berro Phone: (202)684-7472 Email: [email protected]

Page 13: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Iowa State Captain Profile Micah Howe

International OCD Foundation

More Information on Micah Coming Soon E-mail Address: [email protected]

Page 14: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Idaho State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Idaho currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Idaho’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Malka Berro Phone: (202)684-7472 Email: [email protected]

Page 15: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Illinois State Captain Profile Blanca Campos

Vice President of Policy & Government Affairs Community Behavioral Healthcare Association of Illinois

E-mail Address: [email protected] Phone: (217) 585-1600 Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two Favorite Hill Day Moment: I attended National Council’s Hill Day last year. It is always amazing to see government up close and personal. Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: I’ve been continuing to create awareness and educate lawmakers about the importance of investing in mental health. Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Take time to prepare and be ready to share your story. Also, be flexible as schedules may change and wear comfortable shoes!

Page 16: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Indiana State Captain Profile Matt Brooks President & CEO

Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, Inc.

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

About the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, Inc.: The Indiana

Council of Community Mental Health Centers (Indiana Council) is a professional trade

association that serves the interests of 25 community-based mental health providers

across the state. Our member agencies offer a full range of health services such as

adult, child and adolescent behavioral, addiction treatment and other programs

aimed at improving the lives of citizens in their home communities. The Indiana

Council promotes and preserves the best interests of its constituent members

through public policy advocacy, member services, education and community

relations.

Page 17: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Kansas State Captain Profile Colin Thomasset

Associate Director Kearney & Associates

E-mail Address: [email protected] Phone: (785) 550-3458 Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+ Favorite Hill Day Moment: After a good Hill Day visit, a new congressman that we met with visited one of our mental health centers in his district the following week. Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: In the Kansas Legislature last year, we secured over $11 million in additional funding to community mental health centers. Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Arrive early to appointments. Security at building entrances can be cumbersome, so it’s worth having some extra minutes just in case. Also, bring an umbrella.

Page 18: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Kentucky State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Kentucky currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Kentucky’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Katiri Zuluaga Phone: (202)849-4922 Email: [email protected]

Page 19: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Louisiana State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Louisiana currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Louisiana’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Malka Berro Phone: (202)684-7472 Email: [email protected]

Page 20: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Massachusetts State Captain Profile Amanda Gilman

Senior Director of Public Policy and Research Association for Behavioral Healthcare

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (508)647-8385

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: I love when people who are afraid of meeting with

legislators have a good experience.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Relax and don’t make anything up.

There is no shame in saying, I don’t know but I will make sure we will follow up

with you with an answer. Your Hill Day Captain and/or the National Council staff

can assist you with that.

Page 21: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Maryland State Captain Profile Shannon Hall Executive Director

Community Behavioral Health Association of Maryland

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (508) 647-8385

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Getting to sit down at the end of the day.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Maryland’s been recognized several times

for having the best participation in Hill Day!

Best Advice for Fire-Time Hill Day Attendees: Attend the morning send-off where we share

the day’s schedule and split up visits to Maryland’s congressional delegation.

Due to Maryland’s proximity to Washington, DC, we have a high volume of registrants for Hill Day, but often only about 1 in 6 registrants will participate in Hill Day visits. For this reason, we don’t assign registrants to specific congressional visits in advance. While your state captain and

identified volunteers will schedule visits with the entire Maryland delegation, we ask you to attend the Hill Day kick-off meeting to identify which visits you will participate in.

Page 22: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Maine State Captain Profile Malory Shaughnessy

Executive Director Alliance for Addiction and Mental Health Services, Maine

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Meeting the hosts of MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Joe Scarborough

and Mika Brzezinski, at Hill Day 2017.

Biggest or Most Successful Advocacy Achievement: Achieving a moratorium by the

legislature to block any future payment rate decreases without further legislative input.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Be prepared and take lots of photos!

Page 23: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Michigan Captain Profile Alan Bolter

Associate Director Michigan Association of Community Mental Health Boards

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (517) 374-6848

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

About Michigan Association of Community Mental Health Boards: The Michigan

Association of Community Mental Health Boards was created in 1967 to support

county mental health services programs (CMHSPs) in promoting, maintaining and

improving a comprehensive range of community-based mental health services, which

enhance the quality of life, promote the emotional well-being, and contribute to

healthy and secure communities which benefit all of Michigan’s citizens. Services

managed and delivered by CMHSPs are designed to assist individuals in achieving,

maintaining and maximizing their potential. They are provided in accordance with the

principles of person-centered planning.

Page 24: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Minnesota State Captain Profile Jinny Palen

Executive Director Minnesota Association of Community Mental Health Programs

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (651) 233-3502

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Being present for the appearances from behavioral

health champions Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Be confident, congressional members

are people like us, and they want to hear from you. You are their constituent.

Page 25: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Missouri State Captain Profile Natalie Cook

Integrated Care Manager Missouri Coalition for Community Behavioral Healthcare

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (573) 338-0877

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: First Year

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: CCBHC Advocacy Day! It was my

first advocacy event and our providers blew me away at our meetings with

legislators.

Best Advice for a First Time Hill Day Attendee: Wear comfortable shoes, pack light

(you will go through security several times), and bring a refillable water bottle.

Page 26: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Mississippi State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Mississippi currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Mississippi’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Katiri Zuluaga Phone: (202)849-4922 Email: [email protected]

Page 27: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Montana State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Montana currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Montana’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Malka Berro Phone: (202)684-7472 Email: [email protected]

Page 28: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

North Carolina State Captain Profile Teri Herrmann

The Sparc Network

More Information on Teri Coming Soon E-mail Address: [email protected] Phone Number: (704) 453-1878

Page 29: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

North Dakota State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

North Dakota currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be North Dakota’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Shelley Starkey Phone: (202)684-3728 Email: [email protected]

Page 30: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Nebraska State Captain Profile Julia Hebenstreit

Executive Director The Kim Foundation

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (402) 891-6997

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Last year’s reception and being there so close to such a huge

health care win.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Last year was tough, but the year before

we had a great meeting with Representative John Ashford (D-NE-02) and got him to sign

on to a few bills.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Sign up! 😊 Go in with an open mind and

understand you’re not going to be able to get through to everyone with the importance

of our message, but it’s still crucial that we keep trying

Page 31: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

New Hampshire State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

New Hampshire currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be New Hampshire’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Shelley Starkey Phone: (202)684-3728 Email: [email protected]

Page 32: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

New Jersey State Captain Profile Jim Marhold

President/CEO Declarations Incorporated

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (732) 732-6990

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

About Declarations: Declarations, Inc. specializes in the recovery and rehabilitation of

individuals who have a psychiatric illness along with other co-occurring disorders such

as intellectual/developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, and advanced

medical service needs. The effects of co-occurring disorders create many barriers for

our consumers. Declarations’ objective is to assist them in overcoming these

challenges. Our innovative training methods are designed to empower each individual

to develop self-reliance and personal dignity.

Page 33: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

New Mexico State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

New Mexico currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be New Mexico’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Katiri Zuluaga Phone: (202)849-4922 Email: [email protected]

Page 34: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Nevada State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Nevada currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Nevada’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Shelley Starkey Phone: (202)684-3728 Email: [email protected]

Page 35: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

New York State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

New York currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be New York’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Shelley Starkey Phone: (202)684-3728 Email: [email protected]

Page 36: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Ohio State Captain Profile Teresa Lampl Associate Director

The Ohio Council of Behavioral Health & Family Services Providers

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (614)228-0747

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: There are so many great experiences over the years! Meeting

with all our elected officials and their staff, honoring Ohio’s Senators for their support,

and watching Hill Day grow from a small group of advocates to over 700 people all talking

about the value and importance of behavioral health.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Your voice and experience matter! There is

strength in numbers. We will be there with you and support you in telling your story. Join

us!

Page 37: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Oklahoma State Captain Profile Julia Jernigan Executive Director

Oklahoma Behavioral Health Association

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (405) 943-3700

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Seeing our folks have great conversations with our

delegation and hearing their own stories.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: We had a letter of support from

our delegation for our state to participate in the CCBHC demonstration.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Be kind when speaking to your elected

official. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

Page 38: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Oregon State Captain Profile Ginger Bandeen

Pinnacle Health Informatics

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (971) 409-6931

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: I really enjoy the opportunity to help other Hill Day attendees

get involved in advocacy. One of my favorite moments was a meeting at the end of the

day a few years ago. Our group was tired and the meeting was late (around 6:30pm or

so), but one of our Oregon Senators made a point of joining our group in person to talk to

us, even though he’d had a long day, too. His staff kept reminding him that he needed to

leave, but he made a point of listening to each advocate.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: I enjoy organizing Hill Day and this is really

my biggest advocacy event each year.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Wear comfortable shoes and don’t go home

early!

Page 39: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Pennsylvania State Captain Jack Phillips

Government Affairs Director and Senior Policy Officer Rehabilitation & Community Providers Association (RCPA)

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (717) 364-3280

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

About Jack Phillips: Jack Phillips is responsible to assist the association with health

policy, which primarily includes member communication and advocacy with the

governor’s office, General Assembly, and state regulatory agencies.

About Rehabilitation & Community Providers Association: RCPA is among the largest

and most diverse state health and human services trade associations in the nation.

RCPA advocates for those in need, works to advance effective state and federal public

policies, serves as a forum for the exchange of information and experience, and

provides professional support to members. RCPA provider members offer mental

health, drug and alcohol, intellectual and developmental disabilities, children’s, brain

injury, medical rehabilitation and physical disabilities and aging services, through all

settings and levels of care.

Page 40: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Rhode Island State Captain Profile Richard Leclerc

Newport Mental Health

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (401)521-5759

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: The morning kick-off meeting and the sendoff before going to

the meetings is a great feeling and my favorite part of Hill Day.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Explaining our position and speaking with

all the Congressional officials on Hill Day.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Be prepared and don’t be nervous (easier

said than done).

Page 41: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

South Carolina State Captain Profile Elizabeth Evans Clinic Director, Owner

Therapeutic Counseling South Carolina, Inc.

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (843)530-1368

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: First year

About Elizabeth: I specialize in program creation and clinical social work oversight

in the Charleston, SC/Greater Lowcountry area specializing with Generation Alpha,

children born post 2010 as well as therapeutically treating and preventing mental

health challenges in the youngest of the young. I am excited to help South

Carolina's behavioral health voice to be better heard for Hill Day, especially for the

children and families of my state this September 2019 in Washington, D.C.

Page 42: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

South Dakota State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

South Dakota currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be South Dakota’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Shelley Starkey Phone: (202)684-3728 Email: [email protected]

Page 43: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Tennessee State Captain Profile Alysia Williams

Director of Policy & Advocacy Tennessee Association of Mental Health Organizations

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: 615-244-2220 ext. 15

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: First Year

Favorite Hill Day Moment: I have two-- The first was gathering in the office of

Senator Alexander and explaining how specific legislation would impact

Tennesseans with behavioral health needs. What impressed me most was the

group of people that had gathered. We were all from different organizations and

had different positions, but at the end of the day, our interests were the same, and

we were able to focus on our shared interests and unite with one voice. The

second was hearing from Dr. Oz!!! That was so cool!

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: At the state level, TAMHO

introduced legislation to exclude behavioral health diagnoses from our state

Medicaid Episode of Care payment reform initiative. We were able to educate

stakeholders on the impact episodes of care would have on children and adults

with behavioral health needs. As a result, all behavioral health episodes have been

paused and anxiety and acute depression have been excluded.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: 1. Wear comfortable shoes! 2. Watch, ask if you don't know, and remember YOUR VOICE MATTERS!

Page 44: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Tennessee State Captain Profile Ellyn Wilbur

Executive Director Tennessee Association of Mental Health Organizations

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (615)244-2220 x12

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Seeing the lightbulb go on when a congressman finally

understands the message.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Most recently, successfully fighting

a rate decrease for our behavioral health home.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Be prepared to explain issues to

people who might not have a good understanding of them.

Page 45: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Texas State Captain Profile Leela Rice

Director of Children’s Mental Health Services Texas Council of Community Centers

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (512) 826-3959

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: First Year

Page 46: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Texas State Captain Profile Lee Johnson Deputy Director

Texas Council of Community Centers

E-mail Address: [email protected] Phone: (512) 775-9572 Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: There have been so many amazing moments at Hill Day, it’s

hard to choose just one! A notable experience was the time we met with Senator John

Cornyn (R-TX) in the Majority Whip’s Office. Admittedly awestruck thinking about the

historically significant events that had occurred in the spaces we then casually occupied, I

noticed senators entering and exiting the floor of the Senate just a few feet away from

where we were standing. It was an experience I will remember for the rest of my life.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Don’t be disappointed if you meet with a

member’s staff. The staff should be treated just like the elected official, and in some

instance, are even more important because they keep track of the details!

Page 47: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Utah State Captain Profile Richard Nance

Director Utah County Division of Human Services

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (802) 223-1773

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: After the visits, sharing the experiences and stories with other

advocates.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Getting a hug from Senator Orrin Hatch’s

(R-UT) health policy staffer.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Read leave-behinds multiple times prior to

visit. Send a thank you e-mail ASAP after the visit. Look for opportunities to follow-up and

do it quickly.

Page 48: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Virginia State Captain Profile Amy Morgan

PhD Candidate/Instructor & Researcher Virginia Tech

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (860)918-0464

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: First year

Biggest advocacy achievement: I am part of a research team investigating LPCs and LMFTs experiences of turning away Medicare beneficiaries due to exclusion from Medicare reimbursement policy. We met with Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA 9th District) in January 2019 to discuss this issue and ask him to support HR 945, which would add LPCs and LMFTs as eligible providers under Medicare. At the time he empathized with the issue but would not support the bill. At a second meeting six months later, he informed us that he will now be co-sponsoring HR 945. This is a HUGE win as it may encourage others "on the fence" with HR 945 to consider supporting this important piece of legislation.

Best advice for a first time Hill Day attendee: The Hill can be an intimidating place, especially with how busy our elected officials' schedules are. Consequently, how you use your time makes or breaks a meeting. Be gracious and respectful but also be appropriately assertive and confident. Be at least somewhat familiar with the legislator's agenda and history, be very concise using jargon-free language, have a clear "ask", and leave a one-page (i.e., brief) summary of the information you provided. You would be surprised with how effective even a fifteen-minute meeting can be if you arrive prepared, confident, and gracious.

Page 49: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Vermont State Captain Profile Julie Tessler

Executive Director Vermont Care Partners

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (802) 223-1773

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Three+

Favorite Hill Day Moment: My favorite Hill Day moment was when Senator Patrick Leahy

(D-VT) brought us into his private office and shared his photographs with us.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: I think we are all proud of our shared

advocacy efforts to successfully block the destruction of the Affordable Care Act.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: The National Council does a great job of

educating and preparing us for the Hill visits and we conduct our visits as a team. So

relax, and we will have fun and maybe even get a ride on the underground mini-rail

system.

Page 50: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Washington State Captain Profile Michael Hatchett

Policy Analyst Washington Council for Behavioral Health

E-mail Address: [email protected]

Phone: (206) 628-4608 x16

Number of Prior Years as State Captain: Two

Favorite Hill Day Moment: Excellent, informative meeting with Senator Maria Cantwell (D-

WA) and her health care aid, Nico Janseen.

Biggest or Most Recent Advocacy Achievement: Federal: Inclusion in health care meeting

with Representative Adam Smith (D-WA-09). State: Capital budget provision requiring a

behavioral health state plan.

Best Advice for First-Time Hill Day Attendee: Wear comfortable shoes! Discuss with your

group which issues you’ll focus on and keep it to two or three.

Page 51: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Wisconsin State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Wisconsin currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Wisconsin’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Malka Berro Phone: (202)684-7472 Email: [email protected]

Page 52: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

West Virginia State Captain Profile

National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals.

Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back toyou.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings andreport this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for gettingyour attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled,help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you withsample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. TheNational Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make thismorning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about anyissues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anythingelse that comes up along the way!

West Virginia currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be West Virginia’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Shelley Starkey Phone: (202)684-3728 Email: [email protected]

Page 53: Alaska State Captain - National Council...About Brunilda: Brunilda’s areas of focus include child welfare, behavioral health, Medicaid and healthcare reform. Brunilda received a

Wyoming State Captain Profile National Council Hill Day State Captains are the glue that holds Hill Day together. They have the crucial role of representing the policy interests of our field in your state and each are critical in the success of Hill Day’s overarching goals. Note: Due to the size and scope of Hill Day, attendees must book meetings themselves or work with National Council staff to book them or else we will be unable to coordinate meetings for your state’s registrants to attend at Hill Day on Wednesday, September 18th.

What Hill Day State Captains do: • Coordinate Hill visits for the delegation. This can be done in two ways: set up all of the

meetings in your state or ask attendees to set up their own meetings and report back to you.

• Enter meetings in your registration profile or maintain a master list of all Hill meetings and report this information to the National Council. Make sure to develop a plan for getting your attendees to RSVP for meetings.

• Regularly communicate with others from your state about meetings you’ve scheduled, help you need, and tips on attending Hill Day (the National Council will provide you with sample language to help in your communication!)

• Run the State delegation meet-up on the morning of Wednesday, September 18th. The National Council will provide you with a sample agenda and talking points to make this morning meeting as effective as possible!

• Ask for help! The National Council is here to help – make sure you let us know about any issues you’re having, suggestions on how we can make your duties easier, and anything else that comes up along the way!

Wyoming currently does not have a State Captain Are you willing to serve as your delegation’s State Captain?

Click here and let us know!

If you do not want to be Wyoming’s State Captain, please reach out to National Council staff, who will help you get ready for Hill Day.

Name: Katiri Zuluaga Phone: (202)849-4922 Email: [email protected]