NEWARK — The Nation’s Voice on Mental Illness, New Jersey ("NAMI NEW JERSEY"), this weekend presented New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs’ Acting Director Kimberly Ricketts with a Special Recognition Award for her contribution to improving the State’s mental health system and the lives of those affected by mental illness.

Ricketts, of Highland Park, was presented with the award on Saturday, June 4, during NAMI NEW JERSEY’s 20th Anniversary Conference in Somerset. She was recognized for her work as the Executive Director of the Governor’s Task Force on Mental Health. NAMI NEW JERSEY stated that Ricketts’ "ability and dedication in carrying out this intense and complex assignment in the best interest of consumers, family members and the citizens of New Jersey is to be highly commended."

Following its creation in November, the Task Force held public hearings and issued a report to Acting Governor Richard J. Codey in March which included recommendations designed to improve mental healthcare in New Jersey. Acting Governor Codey recently signed an Executive Order implementing several key recommendations from the Task Force report.

Ricketts took over as Consumer Affairs’ Acting Director in May. Prior to becoming Consumer Affairs’ Acting Director Ricketts spent 2 ½ years at the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and prior to that 13 years working in behavioral health and social services.

Consumer Affairs is one of 10 divisions located within the Office of the Attorney General and is responsible for enforcing the State’s consumer protection laws, including the Consumer Fraud Act. It also oversees 42 professional licensing boards including, alcohol and drug counselors, marriage counselors, professional counselors, psychologists and social workers.

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