Dear Friends,
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am thrilled to share an important and exciting leadership update at Friends of Refugees.
Over the past several months as we’ve been preparing for Kendra Jeffrey’s departure, our staff has worked diligently to ensure a smooth transition to the next Executive Director and continuity in our exceptional programs and services that are vital to the New American community we serve. Following a targeted search and thoughtful interview process, we are pleased to announce that Kevin Kipfer will assume the role of Executive Director, effective June 1, 2026! Kevin brings more than 25 years of experience driving growth and leading transformational change across corporate, nonprofit, and community settings.
Kevin has lived in Clarkston with his family for the past 12 years and is widely known in the community for his strong local connections and relationships. He has also served faithfully on our Board of Directors for several years, including as Chairman of the Board for a period of time! Kevin has helped navigate Friends of Refugees through multiple seasons, remaining a dedicated supporter and partner to the organization, consistently stewarding his talents and passions.
I am so excited to join this incredible organization in a full-time capacity. We have lived in this vibrant community for 12 years, and continue to be humbled and amazed as we walk alongside our New American friends and neighbors. Their resilience, hospitality, and joy are inspiring! As I have seen Friends grow in that time, I can honestly say FOR has never been better positioned to live out this mission!
— Kevin Kipfer
A few of Kevin’s accomplishments include…
- Launched operations in a new country for an international nonprofit, building a national leadership team, sustainable structures and processes, and strong donor and implementation partnerships. The impact of this work has endured for more than 15 years.
- Part of a team that developed a global strategic plan and led change initiatives for a Forbes Top 10 nonprofit operating in 70 countries and across 1,300 U.S. affiliates.
- Spearheaded a global initiative to engage an international network of champions and major donors at the $1M+ level in support of the new strategy.
- Served as lead consultant guiding the strategic direction for a 1,300-employee division within a Fortune 50 company.
- Bachelors in Industrial Engineering & MBA, combined with MA in Intercultural Studies.
- Most recently, served as Executive Director for Herschend Enterprises’ Share It Forward program, supporting over 10,000 employees across the country at their properties like Dollywood, Callaway Gardens, and the Harlem Globetrotters.
As you can see, Kevin is no stranger to us! He has long been committed to our mission of helping our refugee friends build abundant lives in America. We are confident that he will bring his distinctive leadership style, strategic vision, and experience to lead Friends of Refugees into its next chapter.
Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Kevin as he takes the helm at Friends of Refugees. We appreciate your continued partnership as we carry our mission forward together. Stay tuned for an upcoming email featuring an interview with Kevin, where you’ll have the chance to get to know him better.
With gratitude,
Daniel Allman
Chairman of the Board
Friends of Refugees