[PRESS RELEASE] National Black Harm Reduction Network Announces New Executive Director
The Board of Directors of the National Black Harm Reduction Network (NBHRN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracie M. Gardner as its first Executive Director, effective December 6, 2024.
As a foundational step in the organization's development, Tracie and former co-director, Joy Rucker, have navigated the early challenges of establishing a new not-for-profit. Both respected leaders in the field, they have brought significant visibility and expertise to NBHRN during its initial phase. Following strategic discussions, the organization has now decided to transition to a single executive leadership model, with Tracie taking on the role of Executive Director. Joy's contributions have been invaluable.
Tracie brings extensive experience in public health and public policy to her new role. With more than three decades of experience focused on substance use and the impact of the War on Drugs and incarceration on Black communities in the United States, she is a nationally recognized expert on health and race inequities and is uniquely positioned to lead the organization's critical mission.
In her role as Executive Director, Tracie will be responsible for driving the organization's strategic growth, developing innovative programs across multiple regions, and leading comprehensive fundraising efforts to expand the network's impact. Her primary focus will include establishing the organization's foundational infrastructure, building key partnerships, and creating sustainable funding models to support NBHRN's mission.
About the National Black Harm Reduction Network
NBHRN is a newly launched advocacy and technical assistance organization dedicated to advancing harm reduction principles that optimize health and wellness for Black people who are disproportionately harmed by public health initiatives, the criminal legal system, and drug policies. Visit us at www.nbhrn.org.
Contact Information
Eileen Liang-Massey
