Govan A. Martin, III, serves as the Chair, Executive Director, and is the founder of the Suicide Prevention Alliance.  In his role, Govan is dedicated to initiating crucial conversations about suicide within communities, engaging with individuals who have lived experience—including attempt and loss survivors—and collaborating with mental health professionals to promote a cultural shift in the perception of suicide. Through advocacy, increased awareness, and evidence-based training initiatives, he seeks to further effective prevention strategies.  Govan firmly believes that 'Starting the Conversation to Connect with Hope' can make a significant impact in saving lives.

As a prominent advocate in the field of suicide prevention, Govan works alongside county task forces, legislators, and state and national leaders to advance meaningful change.  His extensive expertise includes delivering evidence-based training; he is a Master Trainer in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), a certified instructor for ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), LOSS (Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors) Team trainer, and a certified instructor in CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) for the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF).  He brings a comprehensive background in suicide prevention, mental health wellness, and social services, all aimed at improving community wellbeing.  Govan had a distinguished 29-year tenure with the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), retiring in 2012. He served as the longest-tenured Director of the Member Assistance Program (Peer Support Program) for the final 12 years of his career.

Govan’s commitment to suicide prevention is deeply personal, having lost his brother Michael to suicide in 1980.