Malaysia Harrell

E has spent her career at the intersection of mental health, military service, and social justice—because she believes that true wellness requires systems that work for everyone, especially those who serve. Whether leading clinical communities at the Defense Health Agency, shaping child and family policy at SAMHSA, or building her own consulting practice at Blissful Life Consulting, she brings a boots-on-the-ground understanding of what it takes to create programs that actually help people thrive. As a USPHS commissioned officer for over 13 years, she learned that leadership is not about rank—it is about presence, accountability, and the courage to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Today, through her board service at the University of Maryland School of Social Work and her ongoing consulting work, she continues to mentor the next generation of social work leaders, champion veteran entrepreneurship, and design solutions that bridge clinical care with community well-being.