NEWS RELEASE

For Release: August 4, 2025

Contact: The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs, 301-986-8770, info@natsap.org

NATSAP Congratulates Trina Quinney-Packard on Her Appointment as Chair of Utah’s Congregate Care Advisory Committee

Bowie, MD – The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) proudly congratulates Trina Packard on her appointment as Chair of the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Congregate Care Advisory Committee. This committee plays a critical role in ensuring safety, quality, and accountability across congregate care settings in the state.

As CEO and Executive Director of Youth Care, Trina brings decades of insight, leadership, and compassion to this role. Her appointment is both a recognition of her impact and a testament to the expertise and professionalism within Utah's therapeutic community.

The Congregate Care Advisory Committee exists to provide expert guidance on oversight and licensing practices. With Trina as Chair, the committee is well-positioned to continue strengthening standards and outcomes for vulnerable youth across Utah.

“Trina’s appointment reflects the kind of informed, ethical leadership that strengthens our field. Her voice will be invaluable to both state regulators and the youth-serving programs they oversee,” comments Derek Daley, SUDC, NATSAP Board President. Alec Stone, MA, MPA, CNE said, “This is a proud moment for Utah—and for NATSAP. Trina exemplifies the collaborative spirit and high standards that define effective congregate care.”

NATSAP applauds this milestone and urges all programs operating in Utah—whether accredited or not—to stay engaged in the important work of policy shaping and care enhancement. The Utah effort is essential. And it is working.

We encourage all licensed and unlicensed programs to stay engaged in this important effort—and to join NATSAP in supporting strong, ethical, and collaborative leadership across the field.

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About the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP)

Founded in January 1999, NATSAP, a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit membership organization, is a national resource for programs and professionals assisting young people with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Located throughout the U.S., NATSAP members include therapeutic schools, residential treatment programs, wilderness therapy programs, young adult programs, and home-based residential programs. The Association is governed by an elected, volunteer Board of Directors comprised of representatives from its membership. NATSAP members are independently operated and owned; therefore, NATSAP does not provide placement services. All NATSAP member programs that treat children under 18 are overseen by state therapeutic licensure and accredited by major mental health bodies, and in some cases, both.