This week, we will say a sad goodbye to Hearth Connection's Executive Director, Richard Hooks Wayman.  As noted in his announcement, Rich is continuing his life work dedicated to the needs of children in poverty at a family services agency in Massachusetts.  His final day at Hearth Connection is October 11, and he has provided new contact information if you would like to stay in touch.

 

Hearth Connection remains in a strong position and has been making progress in preparing for the placement of a new leader of the organization.  I'd like to share a few announcements regarding the transition:

 

Interim Executive Director Appointed

The Board of Directors is happy to announce that Janel Bush will serve as the Interim Executive Director of Hearth Connection.  Janel has been involved with Hearth Connection since the initial discussions around the Pilot, and has been a strong advocate for the organization and its work ever since.  She has led a distinguished career in the public sector in the areas of affordable and supportive housing, most recently working with the Minnesota Department of Human Services. She served as Vice Chair of Hearth Connection's Board of Directors before the assignment to this position.  Janel wishes to serve in this position as an interim role only, and she will step down from the Board during this period.  She can be reached at janel@hearthconnection.org, or (651) 645-0676 x103 beginning October 14.

 

Search Begins

Hearth Connection is now accepting applications for the Executive Director position.  The job description and information on applying are available here; please share this announcement with friends and colleagues who may be interested in the position.

 

A Transition and Search Committee will lead the search process and placement of the new Executive Director. This committee is chaired by Fred La Fleur, a former Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Corrections and a Hearth Connection Board member since the early days of the organization.

 

Other Announcements

Please join us this Thursday, October 10 to say farewell and thank you to Rich for his many contributions to Hearth Connection's work ending long-term homelessness.  More information on the party and ways to RSVP are available here.

 

Also, please check back to the Transition page on our website in the coming months to get the latest updates on the Executive Director search.

 

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this period.  If you have any questions about the transition or search, please feel free to contact me.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Kelli Johnson

Hearth Connection Board Chair