I assumed duties as Executive Director in November of 2024. I come to NAMI Black Hawk County with 25 years of executive leadership experience, the past 16 years in the non-profit sector. For personal reasons I am very passionate about, and committed to, helping those living with mental illness. Iowa born and raised I look forward to many years of life and work here in the Cedar Valley.
Executive Director
Chad Hammar
Our Team.
Our Board of Directors is a diverse and experienced group of leaders committed to guiding our organization toward continued growth and success. Each member brings a unique set of skills and a passion for mental health. Together, they provide strategic oversight and ensure our values are reflected in every decision.
Jayne Slaughter, President
"Learning about NAMI and the free classes they offer helped me get through some really difficult times and I wanted to make others aware of this organization and advocate for mental health."
Eleanor Hart, Vice President
“I serve with NAMI to care for the needs of my community and help fill gaps in mental health care by providing local support and compassion.”
Barbara Leistad, Treasurer
“Mental health is a serious problem that crosses all demographics, so I volunteer to do my small part to help provide services to those who need it and can’t afford it.”
Craig Tomlinson, Secretary
“There is hope, even when your mind tells you there isn’t. Healing takes time and asking for help is a courageous start.”
Kate Wyatt, Member At-Large
“I choose to be a part of the NAMI board because I am committed to raising awareness about mental health and supporting those impacted by mental illness. My goal is to help remove the stigma associated with mental health care and ensure everyone struggling has access to the support and medical help they deserve.”
Mary Schwake, Member At-Large
"NAMI has helped me beyond words!When I needed help understanding my son’s mental illness, NAMI helped me to understand what we were dealing with.
After learning about that, I wanted to help forward that onto others.
It is a wonderful organization!"
Jamie Pearson, Member At-Large
"I wanted to help eliminate the bad stigma that mental illness has developed."
Sara Gienau, Member At-Large
"I choose to serve with NAMI BHC because I struggle with mental illness and a great deal of my family members do as well. I have seen firsthand how mental illness can impact the individual and their families."