CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Vinfen is pleased to announce the appointment of Rae Simpson, PhD, to its Board of Directors.

A nationally recognized journalist, consultant, and advocate, Ms. Simpson brings decades of experience advancing public understanding of mental health conditions, strengthening access to effective resources, and promoting informed public dialogue on health and science issues.

Throughout her distinguished career, Ms. Simpson’s writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Psychology Today, and numerous other national and international publications. Her work has focused on health, parenting, mental health, genetic engineering, and public understanding of science. She has also served as a consultant to organizations including the World Health Organization, the United Nations, the National Science Foundation, Harvard University, CBS, and WGBH.

“Rae brings an extraordinary combination of professional expertise, advocacy experience, and personal commitment to improving the lives of people with mental health conditions,” said Jean Yang, President and CEO of Vinfen. “Her voice has helped shape important conversations about mental health, and her insight will be invaluable as Vinfen continues to expand services, strengthen advocacy efforts, and advance opportunities for the people we serve.”

Ms. Simpson earned a doctoral degree in communication research from Stanford
University and later pursued post-graduate training in clinical psychology, family systems, and child and adult development. She founded the first science writing program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), established the National Parenting Education Network, and served as a special consultant to the Harvard Center for Health Communication. She also developed MIT’s Work-Life Center, providing consultation and support to families on parenting, education, and mental health resources.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Simpson has been a dedicated
mental health advocate. She currently serves on the board of the Cambridge/Middlesex chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), where she facilitates support groups, coordinates community initiatives, and volunteers on the organization’s support line. Her advocacy work has included collaborations with NAMI Massachusetts, Advocates, the Massachusetts Association for Mental Health, peer-led organizations, and state
policymakers to advance improvements in mental health care across the Commonwealth.

“I have long admired Vinfen’s commitment to supporting people in their recovery and
helping them build meaningful lives in their communities,” said Ms. Simpson. “I am
honored to join the Board of Directors and look forward to contributing to an organization that has made such a profound difference for thousands of individuals and families.”

Ms. Simpson was named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in recognition of her contributions to public understanding of science.

As a member of Vinfen’s Board of Directors, Ms. Simpson will help guide the organization’s strategic priorities and support its mission of helping individuals with disabilities and life challenges live, work, and thrive in their communities