Veterans Applaud Atlanta VAHCS Executive Director’s Commitment to Accountability and Community Engagement
By Gregory Kendall, Public Affairs Specialist
Local Veterans are giving high marks to Kai Mentzer, Executive Director of the Atlanta VA Health Care System, for bringing a new level of visibility, accountability, and responsiveness to the organization.
In a move praised by Veterans and family members, Mentzer has launched a new initiative to take the Veterans Town Hall meetings on the road—meeting Veterans where they are and engaging directly in the communities Atlanta VAHCS serves.
“Instead of asking Veterans to come to us, we’re coming to them,” Mentzer said at the town hall held at the Cobb County VA Clinic on June 27. “Too often, our Veterans feel like they’re speaking into a void,” he said. “These town halls are about changing that—by showing up, listening closely, and following through.”
Veterans are taking notice. “I’ve been going to Atlanta VA town hall meetings for years, and I’ve never seen this level of transparency and responsiveness,” said Marine Corps Veteran Allan Simms. “It’s not just talk—this director is showing up, taking notes, and taking action.”
Atlanta VAHCS town halls meetings offer Veterans a direct forum to ask questions, express concerns, and receive updates on a wide range of topics such as staffing, infrastructure and system improvements.
Army Veteran Kevin Mack noted Mentzer’s leadership has been widely credited with fostering a culture shift across the Atlanta VAHCS, prioritizing transparency, problem-solving, and Veteran-centered care. “Accountability isn’t just a buzzword anymore,” said Mack. “Director Mentzer is demonstrating what accountability looks like and Veterans are better off for it.”
As the Veteran town halls continue, both Veterans agree one thing is clear: the Atlanta VA Health Care System, under Mentzer’s leadership, is setting a new standard for what Veteran engagement should look like - grounded in respect, action, and a promise to do better.
If you were unable to attend the town hall meeting, you can watch it HERE.