APA Foundation names new executive director
The American Psychiatric Association Foundation has named Rawle Andrews Jr., Esq., as its executive director.
“Rawle Andrews’ record of results and action, coupled with his passion for health equity, will make him an excellent leader for the APA Foundation,” Saul Levin, MD, MPA, CEO and medical director of the APA and board chair of the APA Foundation, said in a press release. “He joins a strong organization that does so much to improve our nation’s mental health, and I’m excited to see what the foundation will achieve with him at the helm.”
The foundation handles charitable efforts for the APA. As executive director, Andrews’ responsibilities will include helping to raise mental health awareness, overcome impediments to access, invest in future leaders of psychiatry, support research and training for improvements in care and oversee partnerships to meet public mental health challenges.
Previously, Andrews worked for the AARP for 15 years, during which he served as its vice president beginning in 2011. In 2015, he moved into his current role, in which he launched a new strategic business unit that represents approximately half of AARP members.
“Mental health awareness and the need for medical help are growing exponentially,” Andrews said in the release. “Working together, our board, staff, fellows and community partners will continue to meet this moment with focus, determination and consistency while introducing the foundation to new communities where our neighbors in need live, learn, work, worship and play.”
Amy Porfiri, MBA, the APA Foundation’s interim executive director, will return to her position as the foundation’s managing director.