Jenna Mehnert was our choice to lead NAMI Maine as executive director seven years ago. Her recent resignation is unfortunate for an agency that has struggled over the years with finding solid leadership. The length of our service with NAMI Maine provides us with a unique perspective on the agency’s operations.

We can attest to the significant contributions she made to program development, fundraising, public policy and implementation of an impact-made culture for NAMI Maine. We hired Jenna because of her outstanding qualifications and a clear commitment to advancing programming and policy reform to help those impacted by mental illness. She did an excellent job fulfilling the goals we established for her when she was hired.

A recent internal review, which, to this day, has gone unreported, found that Jenna did not create a hostile work environment, yet the accusations were front-page news.

When we were active board members, we continually looked to improve the agency’s services and work environment. The board instituted results-based accountability and over 18 months Jenna implemented it. Jenna also increased the agency’s budget by $1 million. Jenna made an immeasurably positive impact on NAMI Maine. We wanted Mainers to know from us, former board members, that we support Jenna. Her resignation is truly a loss to the agency and the people it serves.

David Moltz
member, NAMI Maine board, 2003-2018
Portland

Ted Kirchner
member, NAMI Maine board, 2009-2016; former Portland resident
State College, Pa.