Kristen M. Kiefer joined Generations United as Executive Director in August 2025. At Generations United, Kristen champions efforts that support grandfamilies and kinship caregivers, elevate innovative intergenerational programs, and advance policies and infrastructure grounded in the lived experiences across the life span. Kiefer is deeply committed to ensuring that people of all ages are not only supported, but meaningfully included in shaping programs, priorities, and systems. Her leadership reflects a core belief: that every generation is an asset and when generations are intentionally connected, communities are more resilient and prepared for the future.
Kiefer is a seasoned nonprofit leader and stalwart advocate with more than 25 years of experience across aging, education, public policy, and community development. She began her career in the office of U.S. Senator John Glenn, an experience that shaped her lifelong commitment to public engagement and principled leadership.
She served in multiple senior leadership roles in her 18 years at the National Council on Aging, one of the founders of Generations United, building upon the aging research and policy experience gained earlier in her career at the Gerontological Society of America and LeadingAge. Before joining Generations United, Kristen served as Executive Director of Historic Manassas, Inc., where she guided downtown revitalization centered on civic identity, small business development, and cross-generational engagement.
Her belief in the power of community is unwavering, having served as an elected official on the Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) Board for six years and actively serving on boards for multiple educational and community organizations.
A trusted voice in systems change and community leadership, Kristen has worked at the intersection of national policy and local innovation throughout her career. She has helped communities strengthen benefits access, reduce social isolation, and apply intergenerational solutions to challenges ranging from caregiving and workforce development to education and housing.
Kristen holds a Master of Public Policy from Georgetown University and dual bachelor’s degrees in Health and Business Administration from Ohio University. Hailing from Cleveland, Kiefer is a proud and unapologetic Cleveland sports fan. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and cooking and finds happiness in being near the water.