Leadership
Desiree came to NAMI York-Adams Counties PA in January 2020 to oversee the daily operations of the organization and has extensive experience in advancement, executive leadership, marketing, grant writing, and event planning. Prior to working in the non-profit sector in 2023, Desiree graduated from York County Vo-Tech with a drafting degree and went on to earn her engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State.
Through her work with NAMI York Adams, she has continued her education allowing her to stay informed on the issues peers and families face related to mental health. Desiree has become a certified CIT Coordinator, QPR Gatekeeper, Family To Family Facilitator, NAMI Basics Facilitator, and state trainer for NAMI Connections Support Group program where she works directly with law enforcement, peers, families and the community sharing her knowledge and raising awareness.
My own personal experience with mental illness began after several life experiences in adulthood. “I didn’t recognize it as mental illness and struggled for several years before I was able to get the help I needed.” Desiree wants to share her experience and the wonderful programs and services of NAMI York-Adams Counties PA so others don’t have to live in silence as she did.
Niki joins NAMI York-Adams from North Carolina, though she is excited to return to her home state of Pennsylvania, where she was a long-time resident. Previously, as a Public Health Educator, she worked within communities to advocate for wellness and disease prevention. Niki played an instrumental role in promoting both mental and physical health, while educating individuals on healthy behaviors and lifestyle choices. She also gained valuable experience working with high school students to develop mental wellness programs centered on the science of well-being.
A trained neuroscience coach, Niki holds a master’s degree in health psychology and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Cognition. Passionate about mental health awareness and mental fitness, she is committed to equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge needed to improve their mental well-being and overall health.
Autumn joins NAMI York Adams from New York, though she grew up in Northern Pennsylvania and is excited to start this new journey back in her home state. Previously, as a Coalition Coordinator and a Prevention Specialist, she worked within schools and the community to educate about substance use and increase the prevalence of harm reduction programs.
Autumn led the efforts in starting the CHANGE Coalition in Niagara Falls, NY, where they worked to increase resource accessibility for substance abuse and mental health conditions. She was also trained in evidence-based education programs, where she gained experience working with youth who were dealing with substance misuse and mental health concerns. Autumn holds a master’s degree in public health with a specialization in Epidemiology. She is passionate about mental health and working to decrease the stigma that surrounds it and hopes to help others through NAMI.
Rosa Gonzalez brings both professional dedication and lived experience to her role at NAMI York-Adams. Having survived her own difficult chapters with mental health, she understands what it feels like to struggle in silence and still to keep going. Her journey fuels her passion for connection, compassion and creating safe spaces for others.
In her role, Rosa builds relationships across the community, coordinates meaningful outreach, and amplifies mental health awareness so no one has to face their battles alone.
Amya is a student majoring in Accounting with a minor in International Business graduating in the year 2025. She has been working in accounting and administration since she graduated from Spring Grove Area High School in 2020. Amya brings with her 7 years of experience with writing, bookkeeping, administration, marketing, leadership, and management.
Amya’s experience with mental health began with family members close to her who suffered depression also when she started volunteering at the UPMC Hospital in York, PA. Seeing patients who were in the hospital due to suicide attempts, domestic violence, anxiety and depression opened her mind more. She was helping patients ranging from age 12-80 by reading them books, handing out crossword puzzles and coloring books, and being an open and listening ear for them. Amya wants to continue to help others and make a positive impact on people’s lives while also doing what she loves in accounting.
