Get to Know: Spencer Morrissey, Coordinator, Executive Office

Tell us something about you that no one would know from reading your resume.  

I’m a proud Vermonter! I take a little bit of Morrisville, VT, everywhere I go. I am also passionate about overdose and suicide prevention, awareness, and treatment. I volunteer with This Must Be the Place, where I hand out naloxone at music festivals and train festival goers on overdose identification and naloxone administration. My professional interests span into the burgeoning world of artificial intelligence (AI), health care and MedTech innovation, addiction treatment, harm reduction, and LGBTQI+ rights.  

When I am not working, you can find me in the middle of the woods playing disc golf, cheering for the Caps, or cuddling up with my three-legged Siamese, Aja. 

Why did you want to join the NHC team?  

I am fervently interested in ensuring access to and equity in health care, especially for those of underserved communities and those with chronic conditions. When I learned about the amazing work the National Health Council (NHC) does, joining the team was an easy decision. I am happy to be a cog in this team’s well-oiled machine! 

What are some of the tasks or other work you have done that will help you in this new role? 

I recently completed a government relations and policy internship with the American Psychiatric Association (APA). I also have a past involvement with NHC member The Trevor Project as a lifeline counselor for about a year. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Southern Maine where I was an At-Large Student Senator in USM’s Student Government and served as the President of the Commuter Student Association throughout the pandemic. I also earned a Master of Science in Addiction Policy and Practice from Georgetown University, where I served as a Student Senator in GradGov, Georgetown’s Graduate Student Government, as well as serving as Vice President of Engagement for Hoyas for Recovery, Georgetown’s Collegiate Recovery Program.  

What is your favorite thing about working at the NHC? 

My favorite thing about working at the NHC so far has been the sense of purpose and impact that comes with the work we do. Every day, I feel like I’m contributing to something bigger than myself, something that directly affects the lives of people across the country. The passion and dedication of my colleagues inspire me, and I’m excited to be a part of an organization that strives to improve health care access, quality, and outcomes for everyone. Plus, the opportunities for learning and growth are endless here!