About NARMH
Vision Statement
The National Association for Rural Mental Health seeks to promote the linkage of the diverse voices of rural mental health, through its activities as a membership organization. As a national organization, NARMH provides a forum for rural mental health professionals, advocates, and consumers to identify issues and problems, share innovative solutions and model programs, and speak with a shared voice on issues of rural mental health concern.
As an organization with a historical heritage of education, NARMH’s sponsorship of an annual conference, regional workshops, and publication of written information is focused upon increasing the body of knowledge related to rural mental health. NARMH’s educational efforts will continue to link the myriad of rural issues and experience into a connected fabric of understanding.
NARMH shall provide a common voice for rural mental health within national and state public policy arenas. Through the information sharing with other organizations, government agencies, federal and state leaders, and others, NARMH will seek to ensure rural America is taken into account in the formation of private and public mental healthcare policy.
Mission Statement
"Linking Voices to Promote Rural Mental Health."
NARMH carries out this mission through electronic and print communication, an annual national conference, participation in national policy making, and special projects.
Past Presidents
Cecil Hudson (1977)
David S. Hargrove (1978-1980)
Gail Jackson (1981)
Val Farmer (1982)
Peter A. Keller (1983-1984)
Ronald Rigs (1985)
William Higgins (1986)
Timothy Lentner (1987)
J. Dennis Murray (1989-1990)
Kathe Hayes (1990-1992)
Dennis Mohatt (1992-1995)
Ed Calahan (1995-1997)
Damian Kirwan (1997-1999)
Peter Beeson (1999-2001)
Donald Sawyer (2001-2003)
David Lambert (2003-2005)
Rick Peterson (2005-2007)
Mark Mitchell (2007-2009)
Rick Peterson (2009-2011)
Linda Werlein (2011-2013)
Jerry Parker (2013-2015)
Paul Force-Emery Mackie (2015-2017)
Jennifer Cristman (2017-2019)
David Weden (2019-2021)
Kevin Martone (2021-2023)