Dr. Kirsten Watkins Named Bert Nash Center CEO: Focused on the Work That Matters
- Bert Nash Center
- Feb 24
- 2 min read
The Bert Nash Center (BNC) is pleased to announce the official appointment of Dr. Kirsten Watkins as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Dr. Watkins joined BNC in August 2021 and has more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health care. As a licensed clinical psychologist, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families navigating complex behavioral health challenges.
Dr. Watkins has served as Interim CEO for the past eight months while continuing in her role as Clinical Director, guiding the community mental health center with steady and thoughtful leadership during a period of transition. Her appointment as CEO reflects the Board’s confidence in her vision and leadership and ensures continued stability as BNC advances its commitment to accessible, compassionate, and high-quality behavioral health care for individuals and families across Douglas County.
"We are extremely excited to be able to plan for the long-term future of Bert Nash with Dr. Watkins as CEO. In her eight months as interim CEO she demonstrated the ability to lead with determination and strength despite any outside obstacles that were thrown in her way,” said Matthew Herbert, Chair of the BNC Board of Directors. “As a board we feel very confident that we have found the right person for the job."
Founded in 1950, BNC has been led by just three CEOs over its 75-year history. Dr. Watkins now becomes the organization’s fourth CEO.
“I’m deeply honored to serve in this role and to be a part of this agency’s important work in our community,” said Dr. Watkins. “I’m excited to move forward in this next chapter for Bert Nash.”
Her leadership comes at a critical time, as communities across Kansas and the nation continue to face increasing demand for behavioral health services. Under her guidance, BNC has improved financial stability through disciplined planning and mission alignment, strengthening core services, ensuring sustainable systems of care, and advancing key initiatives such as the Judge Jean Shepherd Youth Recovery Center.
“Although many things are uncertain around us, I’ve never felt uncertain about Bert Nash - our role in this community or our potential to be the best place to seek behavioral health care,” said Dr. Watkins. “Our agency is focused and united on what matters most.”
With Dr. Watkins transition into the CEO role, BNC will begin the process of hiring a new Clinical Director.
About the Bert Nash Center: Established in 1950, the Bert Nash Center (BNC) serves as Douglas County, Kansas’ designated community mental health center & Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC). BNC i
s the safety-net provider to anyone grappling with mental health or substance use issues - regardless of diagnosis, residence, or financial status. Our mission is to advance the mental health of the Douglas County community through comprehensive behavioral health services responsive to evolving needs and changing environments.
Media Contact: Daniel B. Smith
Community Engagement Coordinator
200 Maine St. Ste A, Lawrence KS 66044
(785)-830-1854
