Laurie Neumann Nafziger is president and CEO for Oaklawn Psychiatric Center in Goshen, Ind., a community mental health center and psychiatric hospital that serves Indiana’s Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.

Oaklawn now has more than 700 employees, serves 14,500 clients and has a budget of $50 million. Nafziger lives in Goshen. She is a member of Eighth Street Mennonite Church in Goshen and serves on the board of Mennonite Health Services Alliance, which sponsors Oaklawn.

Did you have a woman leader as mentor?

I “grew up” professionally at Oaklawn, having worked there over 25 years. In that time, I received encouragement and support to stretch and take on new duties through existing male leaders—Hal Loewen and Sandy Kauffman. In both cases, they recognized my gifts and didn’t seem concerned about my gender, for which I’m grateful.

Are you mentoring a young woman who may be a potential church leader?

The behavioral health-care field is predominantly female, and I’ve been surrounded by smart, committed women—and men—who have a heart for people with mental illness and addictions. I appreciate the opportunity to recognize other women’s gifts and offer them opportunities to use them in a way that benefits others and is satisfying for them.

How are their experiences the same or different from yours?

As I watch my daughter and her friends enter the work force, it’s wonderful to see their confidence and comfort. They’ve had the benefit of seeing their mothers function successfully at home and in the workplace, so this is normal for them in a way that was different from my experience.

What impediments have you faced in becoming a leader?

In the beginning, I was aware of two impediments: I was young and I was female. That felt like a tough combination sometimes. However, I focused on doing my job well and stepping up to opportunities. By now, the age thing has taken care of itself, and the world is more accepting of women.

When you face challenges as a leader, what encourages you?

I am encouraged by my family, my friends and the work itself. I’m a high-energy and positive person and never stay down long. I am energized by the work and the wonderful people around me. They bring support and a safe place to vent, which gives me what I need to move ahead.