NCPG Names Heather L. Maurer as New Executive Director

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) Board of Directors has announced Heather L. Maurer, MA, CAE as the organization’s next Executive Director, effective January 7, 2026.

Maurer brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in the fields of public health, policy, and nonprofit management. Most recently, she served as Chief Executive Officer of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, where she led the organization to its strongest financial position in more than a decade by expanding revenue streams, restructuring operations, and building sustainable reserves to ensure long-term growth.

“In a highly competitive search for NCPG’s next leader, Ms. Maurer early on emerged as a strong leader. Her proven ability to build national partnerships and elevate organizational influence combined with her collaborative spirit and commitment to advancing advocacy initiatives will be invaluable as NCPG works to broaden awareness and unite stakeholders in addressing problem gambling nationwide,” said Derek Longmeier, President of NCPG’s Board of Directors.

As Executive Director, Ms. Maurer will lead NCPG’s strategic direction and oversee its national programs, partnerships, and advocacy initiatives. Her work will focus on strengthening NCPG’s advocacy presence and uniting affiliates, policymakers, industry leaders, and community partners to advance policies that prevent gambling-related harm and expand access to support services. She will also guide efforts to enhance the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network and elevate NCPG’s public awareness campaigns, ensuring the organization remains the national voice for problem gambling prevention, education, and advocacy.

“I’m honored to join NCPG and build on its strong legacy of leadership in addressing gambling-related harm. I look forward to working alongside NCPG’s dedicated team, Board of Directors, members, and partners to expand awareness, strengthen prevention and treatment systems, and ensure that problem gambling is fully recognized within the public health framework,” said Maurer.