Frank Cornelia

Deputy Executive Director @Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Council

Denver, CO, US

Deputy Executive Director (July 2022 – Present)Provide executive leadership to advance CBHC’s strategic priorities, ensuring alignment with state and federal behavioral health policy.Oversee government affairs, policy strategy, and member engagement, driving legislative initiatives and regulatory reforms.Advise the CEO, Board, and member organizations on policy, funding, and system sustainability.Lead coalition-building efforts with state agencies, lawmakers, and providers to strengthen the behavioral health system.Represent CBHC in legislative hearings, policy forums, and negotiations, advocating for improved access, funding, and integration.Deputy Director & Chief Strategy Officer (August 2019 – June 2022)Led strategic initiatives, aligning policy and advocacy efforts with CBHC’s mission.Developed and executed legislative strategies to secure funding and policy wins.Built stakeholder partnerships to advance behavioral health reforms and financing models.Director of Government & Community Relations (December 2015 – July 2019)Designed and implemented legislative and advocacy strategies to support CBHC’s policy priorities.Led direct advocacy efforts, securing key policy and budgetary wins.Strengthened relationships with lawmakers, agencies, and partners to amplify CBHC’s impact.Associate Director of Policy & Government Affairs (June 2014 – December 2015)Developed advocacy strategies and managed CBHC’s legislative portfolio.Built coalitions and engaged stakeholders to support behavioral health policy advancements.Public Policy Specialist (February 2012 – June 2014)Led policy development in substance use disorder and behavioral health outcomes.Supported legislative strategy, tracking bills and coordinating member engagement.

University of Minnesota

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology

Montana State University-Bozeman

Master of Science, Health and Human Development (Mental Health Counseling)