Jenna Mehnert Baker, DPA, MSW, SHRM-CP is the Chief Executive Officer of the American Association of Suicidology. Dr. Mehnert Baker is responsible for implementing the association’s strategic plan and ensuring that agency operations align with best-practice standards. She leads AAS’s partnership development and policy initiatives, with a focus on strengthening connections with call centers, allied national organizations, and local suicide prevention coalitions.

Dr. Mehnert Baker has previously led three member-focused organizations, including the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), where she was recognized as the 2011 National NASW Executive Director of the Year. She has also held four politically appointed roles in policy and program funding, including serving as a state mental health policy director.

Dr. Mehnert Baker holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania and a Doctorate in Public Administration from West Chester University. She is a Results-Based Accountability Fellow with the J.T. Gorman Foundation and holds the Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) credential.

Amy Sagen, DSW, LSW is the Chief Transformation Officer at the American Association of Suicidology. In her role, Dr. Sagen supports organizational transformation and workforce development initiatives. Prior to joining AAS, she served for 15 years as Chief Operating Officer of the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and has held adjunct faculty roles in social work programs in central Pennsylvania.

Dr. Sagen holds master’s degrees in Social Work and Gerontology from the University of Southern California and a Doctorate in Social Work from Kutztown University. She is also a Certified Peer Specialist, and her professional background includes direct practice focused on mental health and suicidality among older adult populations.

Robert Coffey is the Senior Programs Manager at the American Association of Suicidology, bringing more than 20 years of nonprofit experience to the organization. In his role, Robert drives the execution, compliance, and delivery of the association’s annual conference, training initiatives, and credentialing processes. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hofstra University, with minors in Anthropology and Fine Arts. Prior to joining AAS, he served as Senior Manager of Development and Meeting Planning at the Huntington’s Disease Society of America.

Outside of work, Robert enjoys spending time with his family, including his dogs, gardening, camping, and being outdoors.

Alicia Newkam is the Operations Manager at the American Association of Suicidology. In her role, Alicia supports organizational operations, financial processes, and conference planning. Prior to joining AAS, Alicia served as a Continuing Education Specialist at the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and visiting museums.

Anthony Merklinger is the Community Engagement Manager at the American Association of Suicidology, where he leads the organization’s communications strategy. With more than seven years of experience in corporate and mission-driven communications, Anthony specializes in strategic communications, brand management, and public relations. He holds a Master of Science in Public Relations and Corporate Communication from New York University, a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Full Sail University, and is a member of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC).