DHHS Secretary Rick Brajer Receives Award for Work in Mental Health

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Secretary Rick Brajer has been presented the John Baggett Advocate Award from the North Carolina chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Brajer serves as co-chair of the Governor’s Task Force on Mental Health and Substance Use which brings together the Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches of government and key stakeholders to make recommendations that will improve the lives of citizens with mental illness and substance use disorders. 

“This award is given in recognition of Secretary Brajer’s commitment and dedication to advocating for those living with mental illness,” NAMI North Carolina Executive Director Jack Register said. “I congratulate Secretary Brajer on this award that recognizes his tremendous leadership."

The award is named for former NAMI North Carolina Executive Director and NC DHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services Director John Baggett. Baggett was a tireless advocate for those living with mental illness and their families. This award is given in recognition of the local community efforts of a non-NAMI member on behalf of those living with mental illness and their families.

“I am deeply honored to receive this award, and consider it a great privilege to lead the Department’s important work,” said Secretary Brajer. “I have come to view nearly everything we do through the lens of mental health, and am continually moved by the dedication of our staff and the commitment of organizations like NAMI, sharing the call to serve the mental health community.”