Jessica Preiner: A Legacy of Leadership in Mental Health
For over sixteen years, Jessica Preiner, Managing Director of Mental Health Services, has been a cornerstone of Reach’s Mental Health Department. We proudly celebrate her unwavering dedication to the department, her leadership in building a strong and resilient team, and her commitment to meeting the evolving mental health needs of the communities we serve.
Jessica’s path into the mental health field is both inspiring and uniquely her own. While studying interior design at South Dakota State University, a college class requirement led her to volunteer at a group home. That experience sparked a profound shift in her goals, leading her to change her major to Human Development and Family Studies and ultimately, to a career rooted in service.
After graduating, Jessica’s passion for direct support work, combined with a growing interest in mental health, led her to Reach, where she initially balanced administrative responsibilities with hands-on support. Her curiosity and drive eventually opened the door to a role in Children’s Mental Health Case Management. By July 2010, she stepped into a leadership position within Reach’s ARMHS program and played a pivotal role in launching the organization’s parenting education initiatives. She later became Assistant Director of Mental Health before moving into her current role as Managing Director.
Today, Jessica oversees the strategic direction of Reach’s Mental Health Services, while maintaining the close, collaborative relationships that have always fueled her leadership style. She is especially passionate about mentoring her team, encouraging autonomy, and creating an environment where staff feel trusted and supported. “This is a learn-as-you-go job,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In 2022, Jessica was honored as Reach’s Employee of the Year for all her hard work building our Mental Health Services department.
Jessica empowers her team to take thoughtful risks, learn from challenges, and grow in both confidence and capability. At the same time, she remains present and approachable, always ready to lend a hand in tough situations. “These roles give staff experience with a wide variety of people and personalities. They help you become both a better practitioner and a more well-rounded person,” she adds.
While Jessica has already made a significant impact at Reach, she’s far from finished. She remains energized about the future of the department and is especially motivated by the increasing demand for mental health services. “There’s more need than I ever imagined,” she notes. “Referrals are up, and the depth and diversity of people’s needs continue to evolve.”
One initiative she’s particularly excited about is Strengthening Families Together, a new program designed to provide voluntary, proactive parenting support. “With recent cuts to similar services, many families have lost access to valuable resources,” she says. “My hope is that this program helps fill that gap and gives parents the tools they need to thrive.”
Outside of work, Jessica stays busy with her two young sons, ages five and seven. When she’s not with her family, she enjoys getting lost in a good mystery or thriller and painting.
This month, Jessica will receive a special honor as she’s been invited to throw the first pitch at the Minnesota Twins vs. Cleveland Guardians game on May 20th! The event will shine a spotlight on mental health awareness and celebrate Reach’s 40th anniversary, featuring opportunities to engage with staff, show support for mental health initiatives, and enjoy exclusive giveaways.