NAMI Minnesota Appoints New Executive Director

October 2, 2025

The Board of Directors of NAMI Minnesota has appointed Marcus Schmit as its next executive director, effective October 27.  

Schmit succeeds Sue Abderholden, who has led the organization for more than 20 years, and whose advocacy has elevated NAMI Minnesota into one of the state’s most trusted voices for mental health. 

Schmit currently serves as executive director of Hearth Connection, a nonprofit focused on ending long-term homelessness through supportive housing and systems partnerships. With more than two decades of experience in nonprofit and public sector leadership, Schmit brings a strong track record in public policy, systems change, and coalition-building.  

Schmit’s career includes serving as assistant commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Corrections, director of advocacy at Second Harvest Heartland, and senior roles with MNsure and in the Office of Congressman Tim Walz.