On this week’s episode, we’re talking with Gail Maddox Taylor about listening to and investing in communities, building coalitions, and why prevention matters. 

Gail Maddox Taylor is the Director of the Office of Behavioral Health Wellness for the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, also known as the NPN, where she provides leadership in Virginia’s prevention efforts. She also leads Virginia’s statewide initiatives, including Problem Gambling Prevention, Suicide Prevention, Mental Health First Aid, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Behavioral Health Equity and Disparities initiatives. Gail is the 2020 recipient of the National Association of Substance Abuse Director’s National Prevention Network Ketty Award presented annually to a current NPN who has made outstanding contributions to the NPN organization and the field of prevention and received the 2021 Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) Outstanding State Award. These awards were received because of the hard work of the OBHW team, CSBs and Virginia community Coalitions. Gail has served as the NPN liaison on the Board of the Society of Prevention Research, is on CADCA’s Coalition Advisory Council (CAC), and serves as the National NPN 1st Vice-President. 

TRIGGER WARNING: Suicide, substance use, trauma, domestic violence, and mental health issues are discussed in broad ways throughout this conversation. 

Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services: 

https://dbhds.virginia.gov/

The views and opinions expressed on Awareness 2 Action are those of the guests and host and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Prevention Department or Northwestern Community Services.