Everything you ever wanted to know about NAMI Ohio.
Learn more about our mission, our history, our team, and our staff.
Our mission
To improve the quality of life and ensure dignity and respect for persons with serious mental illness, and offer support to their families and loved ones.
Our history
NAMI Ohio (National Alliance on Mental Illness of Ohio) was created in 1982 by a small, dedicated group of family members to provide mutual support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by serious brain disorders. Over the years, our membership has expanded to include family members, mental health consumers and providers, community mental health boards, mental health organizations and other supporters.
As a grassroots organization advocating for mental health issues, NAMI Ohio has an outstanding history of affecting public policy and legislation regarding care and resources for persons with serious mental illness. NAMI Ohio members testify before the General Assembly, educate business and education leaders, and sit on state planning and advisory committees, Community Mental Health Boards, and various task forces. NAMI Ohio’s network of 39 local affiliates, serving most of Ohio’s counties, plays an active role providing support, education, and advocacy on a local level.
Our team
NAMI Ohio Board of Directors Officers
Judge Joyce Campbell
President
Janet Polzer
Secretary
Lovell Custard
First Vice President
Tom Standish
Treasurer
Catherine Morris
Second Vice President
NAMI Ohio Board of Directors
At large
Donna Heck
Central / Southeast Region
Anne Walker
Etta Almon
Karen Cousins
Marcia Knapp
Andrea Frohne
Jenny Schoning
Northeast Region
Bob Spada
Jack Sherman
Lori D'Angelo
Doug Smith, M.D.
Mackenzie Varkula, MD
Northwest Region
Peggy Lomax
Eric McKee
Jessica Schmitt
Southwest Region
Heather Smith
Gloria Walker
Linda Stagles
Valerie Walker
PEER COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE