The Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority board of trustees Oct. 4 announced the hiring of Mike Abbott as Chief Executive Officer. Abbott is currently the Anchorage municipal manager. He is a long-time Alaskan and has a distinguished career in public service. He will begin at the trust on November 1.

“This is an exciting time at the trust and we are so fortunate to have Mike on board. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and will be able to hit the ground running and really lead this organization to a new level,” said Mary Jane Michael, chair of the board of trustees.

Abbott will oversee both the trust land office and the Mental Health Trust Authority office in his role as CEO. “I am humbled and excited about this opportunity to lead this unique organization. I’m looking forward to working with the board and staff to understand the opportunities and challenges that it currently faces and develop solutions that will benefit trust beneficiaries,” said Abbott.

Additionally, Andy Stemp was recently hired as Chief Financial Officer. Previously Stemp was the Director of Administration and Finance for the North Slope Borough.

In fiscal year 2018, the trust anticipates granting nearly $18 million to state agencies, nonprofits and providers across Alaska. The trust currently prioritizes funding requests in the following areas: Medicaid reform, criminal justice reform, housing and long-term services, substance abuse prevention and treatment, and beneficiary employment and engagement.