Meet Our Chapter Staff

Louisa Rocque, MPA- Executive Director  (Pronouns: she/her)

Louisa serves as the Executive Director of the Greater Los Angeles & Central Coast Chapter at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, where she leads with compassion and expertise.

As a seasoned non-profit leader and TEDx speaker, Louisa brings over 15 years of experience in fundraising and volunteer management to her role. With a master’s degree in public administration, specializing in Non-Profit Sector Management, she combines her academic and professional experience with a deeply personal motivation and commitment to suicide prevention. Her passion stems from a personal loss, driving her to advocate that mental health should be regarded with the same importance as physical health.

Since 2015, Louisa has trained thousands of professionals and community members in suicide prevention and awareness.  Her unwavering dedication ensures that communities are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive.

Andrea Guzman- Programs Manager  (Pronouns: She/Her/Ella)

Andrea is the dedicated Programs Manager for the Greater Los Angeles and Central Coast Chapter, with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Always working to ensure a space of community, learning and heart. Hungry to continue working in AFSP's education trainings, presentations and programs and working to meet and support chapter community members. 

Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, Andrea graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Creative Writing and with a Minor in American Indian Studies. 

Andrea brings experience in community outreach and support, with a background in youth work, the non-profit sector, working with city and grant funding and building programs for families, parents and youth. Her passion and mission focused work is dedicated to building and strengthening communities and the passion to continue working with people for people. 

Andrea understands and wants to share the core focus and importance of talking about mental health, suicide and suicide prevention and making it a community priority. Where from personal connection and story, works with dedication to let others know they are not alone, it is okay to ask for help, and there is strength. 

Kelly Manning- Special Events Manager  (Pronouns: she/her)

Kelly's  commitment to mental health advocacy has evolved from over a decade of dedicated volunteer work with AFSP to her current role as the Special Events Manager for the Greater Los Angeles and Central Coast Chapter. In this pivotal position, Kelly orchestrates the success of vital initiatives such as AFSP’s signature Out of the Darkness Walks and fundraising events for the chapter. Kelly's extensive background in leadership, volunteer recruitment, and community outreach enriches her with invaluable expertise. She passionately champions the imperative for widespread participation in mental health initiatives.

Kelly's unwavering dedication underscores the transformative impact of community engagement in nurturing mental health awareness and resilience. Her willingness to share her personal journey navigating her daughter's mental health struggles not only inspires empathy but also fosters a culture of understanding and support within the community. Through her advocacy, Kelly epitomizes the vital role that personal narratives play in destigmatizing mental health challenges and fostering a culture of compassion and solidarity.