Kasie Kaufman, MPH, PMP
Executive Director; Board Chair
Kasie Kaufman is the Executive Director of i understand, a West Michigan based nonprofit dedicated to providing compassionate comfort, hope, and understanding to those affected by suicide or mental/brain health illness and pain. She brings more than a decade of experience in nonprofit behavioral health and project management, focused on expanding access to mental health resources, improving clinical outcomes, and securing critical funding to strengthen services across Michigan. Kasie’s leadership is shaped by lived experience and a deep, unwavering commitment to making sure no one has to suffer in silence. Throughout her career, Kasie has trained thousands in evidence-based suicide prevention and mental health trainings, served on the boards of organizations advocating for systemic change in mental health care including With One Voice Board Chair, and championed efforts to change the conversation around mental health – one story and one life at a time. She is dedicated to lifelong learning, recently earned her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, and teaches grant writing at Grand Valley State University. Outside of her professional life, Kasie is a devoted foodie who loves painting, reading captivating books, and cherishing time with her family and friends.
