Mental Health Colorado gets new CEO

Atchity previously served as executive director of the Equitas Project, a nonprofit that worked with the mental health and criminal justice systems.

Mental Health Colorado started in 1953 and works to advance treatment for mental health services across the state.

“Every Coloradan has a role to play in supporting improved mental health,” Atchity said in a press release. “There can be no passive waiting for someone somewhere else to do something. I look forward to joining Mental Health Colorado in continuing to advance collaborative, cross-sector efforts to improve mental health and access to quality care.”

Atchity replaces Nancy VanDeMark, who had filled the position in an interim role since February. Former President and CEO and current U.S. Senate candidate Andrew Romanoff stepped down from the position earlier this year after four years in the role.

The organization lobbied for eight bills during the Colorado legislative session in 2019 and helped secure $20 million for mental health and substance use services.

At Equitas, Atchity was responsible for helping launch the organization’s start-up, public relations and expansion.

“We are very pleased to have Vincent Atchity join the Mental Health Colorado team,” Mental Health Colorado Director of Advocacy Moe Keller said in the release. “Vincent brings so much knowledge and passion around mental health, and we are looking forward to his leadership. From my previous years working with Vincent, I know his collaborative and inclusive style will serve us well.”

Originally found in The Daily Sentinel.