With more than four decades of service in healthcare and behavioral health leadership, Denise Bertin-Epp has dedicated her career to helping children and families impacted by substance use disorders. A powerful advocate, mentor, and changemaker, Denise continues to inspire recovery, healing, and hope across generations. Denise has had the honor of being the CEO of NACoA since 2022.
Denise has been widely recognized for her leadership and contributions to healthcare. She received the Michigan Nightingale Nursing Leadership Excellence Award and was honored as a Behavioral Health Champion in 2010 by Healthcare Magazine. In November 2019, the International Women’s Economic Forum in London awarded her the title “Woman of the Decade in Healthcare Leadership.” In May 2025, she was awarded the Mae Abraham Legacy award that pays tribute to a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to the cause of recovery.
Beyond her professional roles, Denise has been blessed with a heart for service. She dedicates much of her time to mentoring peers in recovery, fundraising, and delivering food and daily essentials to those in her community who need a helping hand. Her passion for service and unwavering dedication to helping others define her career and her life’s mission.