Eric Golnick is a Navy veteran, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate whose career is defined by his unwavering dedication to those who serve. As a Naval Officer, Eric deployed extensively across Asia, playing a key role in humanitarian efforts following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan. His firsthand experiences with disaster response and the challenges of military life, including personal struggles with mental health issues, have profoundly shaped his leadership style and commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans and first responders. This personal journey inspired him to co-found Forge Health, a nationally recognized behavioral healthcare organization that provides evidence-based care to veterans, first responders, and their families. Under his leadership, Forge Health became a leader in integrating innovative care models and fostering community partnerships.

Beyond his work as an entrepreneur, Eric has emerged as a powerful voice in mental health advocacy. He has worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, and other organizations to reduce barriers to mental health services, with a particular focus on suicide prevention. Eric has testified before Congress on critical issues, including expanding mental health access for veterans and addressing trauma from service. In recognition of his transformative contributions to veterans’ mental health, Eric was awarded the University of Miami’s Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, where he also delivered the commencement address. In addition to his advocacy and policy work, Eric has taken on strategic consulting roles, advising on program development and outreach initiatives. He also continues to act in times of crisis, such as his efforts to support Afghan allies and refugees during the fall of Kabul, reflecting his deep commitment to service both in and out of uniform.