Vanessa supports Healthy Minds in researching and analyzing innovative strategies to improve behavioral health outcomes in Oklahoma, and transforming data and research findings into meaningful insights for decision-makers and behavioral health providers.

Before joining Healthy Minds, Vanessa served for seven years at the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, managing high level policy projects related to the state’s Medicaid program benefits including behavioral health, opioid treatment and substance use disorder, clinic services, and managed care. In this role, she conducted research and analysis of policy options as well as developing and coordinating the implementation of policy solutions and activities through administrative rulemaking. Before working at OHCA, Vanessa interned at the U.S. Department of State where she played a key role in planning logistics for high-profile diplomatic dialogues and events. She also worked closely with foreign service officers developing background papers, identifying promising grant applications for a presidential education initiative, and developing social media content for the U.S. Embassy in Cuba.

Vanessa holds a master's degree in public administration and a bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Central Oklahoma.