Austin, TX – The Hogg Foundation for Mental Health is pleased to announce the appointment of four distinguished professionals to its National Advisory Council (NAC). The new members, each bringing a wealth of expertise and experience in their respective fields, will contribute to the foundation’s mission of advancing mental health in Texas and beyond.
The new NAC members are:
Tracee Black-Fall, AAS. Tracee Black-Fall is Executive Director of Tova’s N.E.S.T. and a Certified Family Peer Support Specialist. Since her recovery from a brain aneurysm, she has been a champion of education and advocacy for individuals and families She has received numerous awards, including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Voice Award, in recognition for her advocacy work.
Stephen Cooper, MSW, PhD, LCSW. Dr. Stephen Cooper is a Professor of Social Work and BSW Program Director at William Woods University. Dr. Cooper is a social work educator who is known for his contributions in rural social work practice. He has taught BSW and MSW courses with an emphasis on research, statistics, policy, and community/organizational practice.
Jennifer Maedgen, PhD. Dr. Jennifer Maedgen serves as the ADA/Section 504 Coordinator for the University of Texas at Austin campus, as well as the Electronic Information Resources Coordinator. Her office also coordinates accommodations under the auspices of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act.
Allen Smart, MA, MPH. Allen Smart is a national spokesperson and advocate for improving philanthropic practice under his group, PhilanthropywoRx. Under the PhilanthropywoRx umbrella, he works with individual funders, Philanthropy Support Organizations, regional and national rural organizations and national non-profits on a wide range of strategy, writing/researching and staff coaching projects.
Dr. Octavio N. Martinez, Jr., Executive Director of the Hogg Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm about the new appointments: “We are thrilled to welcome Tracee, Steve, Jennifer, and Allen to our National Advisory Council. Each of them brings a unique perspective and a deep commitment to mental health advocacy. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to work towards innovative solutions and policies that address mental health needs across our communities.”
The Hogg Foundation’s NAC plays a critical role in guiding the foundation’s strategic initiatives, ensuring that its programs and policies reflect a broad and inclusive understanding of mental health issues. The new members will join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to improving mental health systems and supporting effective mental health practices.
Media Contact: Ike Evans, Communications Manager
imani.evans@austin.utexas.edu; (512) 293-4265
About the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health
Established in 1940, the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health envisions a future in which the people of Texas thrive in communities that support mental health and well-being. Using a variety of approaches, including grantmaking, convening, research, and public policy, the foundation works collaboratively to transform how communities promote mental health in everyday life.