Alexandria, VA — [January 20, 2026] Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance (S&PAA), a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing systemic change and recovery for people living with schizophrenia and psychosis, announced today the appointment of four new members to its Board of Directors.
“S&PAA’s Board of Directors brings together leaders whose diverse expertise advances our mission to accelerate research, expand access to care, and drive effective public policy,” said Kurt Talbot, new Chair of the Board. “At a time when the needs of people living with schizophrenia and psychosis are so often overlooked, strong, informed leadership is essential. We are thrilled to welcome these new board members and deeply value the scientific, policy, and lived-experience perspectives they bring to our work.”
New Board Members
Raquelle I. Mesholam-Gately, Ph.D. Clinical Psychology
Raquelle Mesholam-Gately, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with more than 25 years of experience in psychosis-focused research, clinical care, and teaching and training. She is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and Co-Director of the RISE (Recovery In Shared Experiences) Early Psychosis Clinic at Cambridge Health Alliance.
Her work has advanced understanding of cognitive and functional difficulties in schizophrenia-spectrum and other psychosis conditions, with leadership roles in numerous funded projects, contributions to important assessment tools, and partnerships with individuals who have lived experience with psychosis. Dr. Mesholam-Gately serves on the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance and is committed to integrating lived experience into research and care.
Gary Labovich, M.S., Public Management and Policy
Gary Labovich is a retired Executive Vice President and Senior Partner at Booz Allen Hamilton, where he led large-scale management and technology consulting efforts across the federal government. He brings deep expertise in financial management, governance, and organizational transformation and currently serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees at Clark University. Based in Washington, DC, Mr. Labovich will provide strategic leadership to strengthen organizational systems and policy engagement.
Ariel Snowden, Ph.D., Neuroscience
Ariel Snowden is a neuroscientist examining disease-related genetic and molecular changes that shape neural circuitry in schizophrenia and psychosis spectrum conditions. She is currently a T32 Postdoctoral Research Scholar in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh.
Her work is grounded in lived experience as the daughter of an incarcerated parent living with schizophrenia, shaped by navigating mental health and criminal legal systems that continue to deny appropriate care. She serves on the Family Advisory Committee of S&PAA and the Board of the Schizophrenia Policy and Action Network.
Lauren Kennedy West, B.A., B.S.W.
Lauren Kennedy West is a social development and social work professional, mental health advocate, and content creator whose work centers lived experience, recovery, and education. Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Lauren brings a dual perspective shaped by personal and professional experience, and a strong commitment to expanding public understanding of psychosis, long-term recovery, and community-based supports.
“These new board members strengthen our ability to confront the structural gaps that continue to limit access to timely, effective care,” Kurt added. “Their combined experience across research, policy, and lived experience will help ensure S&PAA remains a credible, solutions-driven voice for individuals and families nationwide.”
About Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance
Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance is the only national nonprofit organization focused exclusively on schizophrenia and psychosis. S&PAA advances systemic change and promotes recovery through research, education and care, and advocacy and public policy. The organization is committed to equitable access to evidence-based treatment, empowerment through knowledge and skills, and the elimination of discrimination and stigma faced by individuals and families affected by serious mental illness.
Media Contact
Erica Tingler, Director of Communications
(330) 697-3905
erica.tingler@sczaction.org
sczaction.org
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