Sterling Martin is proud to have partnered with the National Council for Adoption in the selection of Kate Kennedy as its next President and CEO. We congratulate Kate and NCFA on this exciting leadership appointment.
Kennedy brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership and development experience to the role, with a career focused on advancing outcomes for children, youth, and families. Most recently, Kennedy served as Chief Development Officer for the National CASA/GAL Association for Children, where she ran national fundraising strategy and supported advocacy efforts for children and youth in the foster care system. Prior to joining National CASA/GAL, Kennedy held senior management roles with several mission-driven organizations.
In addition to her professional experience, Kennedy has demonstrated a longstanding personal commitment to child welfare, family advocacy, and issues impacting vulnerable youth and families.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kate to NCFA,” said Jane Castanias, Chair of the NCFA Board of Directors. “After a comprehensive national search, the Board determined Kate was the right leader to guide NCFA into the future. Her extensive leadership experience, passion for serving children and families, and deep commitment to mission-driven work make her exceptionally suited to lead NCFA into its next chapter.”
Kennedy replaces Ryan Hanlon who moved from NCFA to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as Director of the Children’s Bureau. Following Hanlon’s departure, the NCFA Board launched a national search.
“We are extremely grateful to Amy Wolfe for serving as interim CEO during the search process,” added Castanias. “Amy is a true professional and led with unwavering dedication to the organization and the adoption community. We are fortunate that she will continue serving NCFA as Vice President of Operations and work closely with Kate to ensure families for all.”
Kennedy will join NCFA as President and CEO on May 18. She holds an MBA from Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts from Keene State College.
ABOUT NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR ADOPTION
Founded in 1980, National Council For Adoption (NCFA) is a global adoption advocacy nonprofit that promotes a culture of adoption through education, research, legislative action, and collaboration. As the authoritative voice for adoption, NCFA’s areas of focus include domestic infant adoption, adoption from foster care, and intercountry adoption.