What is the Hogg Foundation’s National Advisory Council?
The National Advisory Council (NAC) is a group of people who bring their experiences, ideas and expertise to help shape the Hogg Foundation’s work. NAC members come from all kinds of backgrounds, including community health, peer support, social work, public policy, philanthropy, law and lived experience. What they have in common is a commitment to building a better mental health landscape.
Why is the Hogg Foundation seeking new members right now?
The Hogg Foundation is seeking two new NAC members who are young adults and leaders in mental health. We want to hear from people with ideas about how we can create healthier communities, improve mental health systems and make meaningful change.
You don’t have to have all the answers. We’re looking for people who have something to say—and want to be part of the conversation.
Could I be a good fit?
You might be! We’re looking for people who:
- Are 18–26 years old
- Live outside of Texas
- Have personal, family or community-connected experience with mental health, trauma or recovery
- Are involved in their communities through advocacy, education, service, research, peer support or related efforts
- Are interested in sharing their perspectives about mental health, systems change, policy and community well-being
- Are thoughtful, community-minded and committed to collaboration and meaningful dialogue
- Can commit to serving a five-year term
- Can participate in at least one annual in-person NAC meeting and occasional virtual meetings or conference calls
Do I need to be a mental health professional?
Absolutely not. You don’t need a degree, a particular job title or years of professional experience in mental health to bring something valuable to the NAC.
We’re interested in what you’ve learned through your own life, your community, your work, your education, your advocacy—or any combination of those experiences. The NAC includes people with professional expertise as well as people whose perspectives come from lived experience.
What does “lived experience” mean?
It can mean a lot of things. Maybe you’ve experienced mental health challenges, trauma or recovery yourself. Perhaps you’ve supported a family member or friend. Maybe you’ve spent time working with or advocating alongside a community affected by mental health issues. You don’t have to share anything you’re not comfortable sharing. What matters is the perspective you’ve gained and what you want to bring to the conversation.
Why does the Hogg Foundation want NAC members who live outside Texas?
The Hogg Foundation awards grants and supports organizations across Texas. Because of that, we want our NAC members to be able to offer independent perspectives without potential conflicts of interest related to organizations receiving Hogg Foundation funding. This geographic diversity also helps us bring a broader range of experiences and perspectives to the council.
What would I actually do as a National Advisory Council member?
You’ll have a seat at the table. NAC members advise the Hogg Foundation and share their knowledge, experiences and ideas as we think about our work and the future of mental health. You’ll meet with other NAC members and Hogg Foundation staff at least once a year in person, with occasional virtual meetings or conference calls throughout the year. Some conversations may focus on particular issues or strategic questions.
In other words: we’re not looking for someone to simply sit and listen. We want to hear what you think.
How long is the commitment?
NAC members serve five-year terms, so we’re looking for people who are ready to make a meaningful long-term commitment.
You’ll participate in at least one in-person NAC meeting each year, along with occasional virtual meetings or conference calls.
Will I be compensated for my time?
Yes! NAC members receive a monetary honorarium in appreciation of their time and expertise. The Hogg Foundation also supports and hotel accommodations for the annual in-person NAC meeting.
How do I apply?
Send a cover letter and resume/CV by email to hogg-ed@austin.utexas.edu.
The deadline to submit materials is September 28, 2026.
What should I include in my application?
Your cover letter is your chance to tell us who you are, what you’ve experienced, what you care about and what you would bring to the NAC. Your resume or CV can highlight the ways you’ve been involved in your community—through advocacy, education, service, research, peer support, work, school or other activities.
Don’t worry if your resume doesn’t look like a traditional mental health résumé. There isn’t one.
We’re interested in your perspective, your experiences and your ideas.
You do not need to have a particular job title or professional credential to be considered. We are interested in the perspectives, experiences and ideas that you could bring to the council.
Related Content
Call for Interest: Young Adults for Hogg Foundation National Advisory Council
The Hogg Foundation for Mental Health is seeking two new members for its National Advisory Council (NAC). The foundation’s current need is for young adults leaders in mental health.