Welcome to another episode of Mission Control, where we spotlight nonprofit leaders who are making meaningful impacts in their communities. In this episode, host Paul Schmidt, owner and creative video strategist for Unroduce Multimedia, sits down with Louise Montag, Director of the Prevention Network. Louise shares her inspiring journey, from aspiring to be an ER physician to becoming a leader in public health, as well as the vital work her organization is doing to prevent substance misuse across the state.
The Mission of Prevention Network
The Prevention Network is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to supporting substance misuse prevention efforts at the grassroots level. As Louise explains, the organization offers comprehensive support, including training, technical assistance, and resources to help build healthier communities. Their mission is to address substance misuse and promote wellness, ensuring that prevention efforts are both effective and sustainable.
A Unique Path to Public Health
Louise’s journey to public health leadership is both unique and inspiring. Initially, she set out to become an ER physician, driven by a desire to help people in crisis. However, her experience working in a hospital during college exposed her to the struggles of individuals dealing with substance use and mental health issues. This experience, coupled with her own battles with mental health, shifted her focus from reactive medicine to proactive prevention, eventually leading her to the Prevention Network.
Recognizing Resilience: The Arthur Ashe Award
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Louise is also a survivor of Larry Nassar’s abuse, and her advocacy efforts were recognized in 2019 when she, along with other survivors, received the Arthur Ashe Award from ESPN. This significant recognition highlights her resilience and dedication to supporting others who have faced similar challenges.
Early Inspirations and Career Shifts
Louise’s initial aspirations were shaped by her environment, particularly her family’s experiences with healthcare. Her early desire to become a doctor was driven by a deep-seated need to help others. However, as her interests evolved, she found a way to blend her passion for teaching with public health, influenced by her mother’s career as a teacher.
Mental Health and Public Health: A Personal Connection
Louise openly discusses her struggles with anxiety and depression, which have informed her understanding of the complex relationship between mental health and physical health. Her personal experiences have been invaluable in her role at the Prevention Network, where she advocates for mental health awareness and support, emphasizing the importance of addressing the psychological and social factors that impact health.
Transitioning to Leadership
Louise’s involvement with the Prevention Network began in an administrative capacity, despite her limited knowledge of substance misuse prevention at the time. However, her dedication to health promotion and support for college students helped her transition into a successful administrative role. Her work as the Michigan Higher Education Network coordinator, particularly the development of the cannabis prevention toolkit, earned her recognition as the Preventionist of the Year in 2019.
Rising to the Challenge: Becoming the Interim Executive Director
In 2020, Louise stepped into the role of interim executive director at Prevention Network, a significant challenge given the organization’s financial struggles and the uncertainty of the pandemic. Despite having only four years of experience, Louise’s proactive approach and commitment to the organization’s mission helped her lead it through a period of strategic planning, board development, and leadership initiatives.
The Importance of Mentorship
Louise credits much of her success to the mentorship and support she received from experienced advisors. This guidance was crucial in her development as a leader, demonstrating the importance of having a strong support network during critical career junctures.
Balancing Work and Well-being
Balancing a high-stress role with personal well-being is essential, and Louise shares her strategies for maintaining this balance. She finds solace in connecting with friends through board games, movies, and dinners, as well as traveling with her partner. These activities help her recharge and stay focused, ensuring that she can continue to lead effectively.
Conclusion
Louise Montag’s journey from aspiring doctor to public health leader is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of passionate leadership. As she continues to lead the Prevention Network, her dedication to creating healthier communities through proactive prevention measures serves as a beacon of hope and strength.
For more information about Louise Montag and the Prevention Network, you can reach out through the following contact details:
– Phone: 517-393-6890 (Ask for Louise)
– Email: louiseh@preventionnetwork.org
– Website: PreventionNetwork.org
Thank you for joining us on this episode of Mission Control. Be sure to subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform and give us a review. If you know someone whose journey you’d like to hear about, please email us at missioncontrol@unroduce.com. See you next time in the control center!
