(Washington, DC) – The Board of Directors of Generations United, a national nonprofit that strengthens practices and policies to benefit all generations, has appointed Kristen M. Kiefer as the organization’s new executive director. She will formally assume her position on August 11, 2025.
“Kristen is a mission-driven, servant leader whose expertise and vision will propel Generations United and our talented team into an exciting new era,” said Joe Cuticelli, Generations United Board Chair. “She has an extensive and impactful career working on behalf of older adults and brings a passion for intergenerational solutions that value people at all ages and stages of life. We are pleased to have found a leader of her caliber to guide the organization forward.”
Kiefer brings over two decades of experience working in senior leadership roles with aging and social impact organizations, including the National Council on Aging, one of the founders of Generations United. Known for her thoughtful and values-driven leadership, she has devoted her career to advancing policies and systems that uplift older adults, children, and underserved populations. Her strategic vision, policy expertise, and deep commitment to inclusive collaboration make her uniquely positioned to lead Generations United into its next chapter.
“I have long admired Generations United and the exceptional team that works to strengthen intergenerational connections, improve supports and services for grandfamilies, and advance the values that make this organization so vital,” said Kiefer. “Their work has been a guiding light throughout my career, and it is both humbling and energizing to now be part of this mission. I’m eager to listen, learn, and build on the organization’s strong foundation of intergenerational and grandfamilies expertise to expand our impact nationwide.”
Kiefer holds a Master of Public Policy degree from Georgetown University and two bachelor’s degrees from Ohio University. Most recently, she served as the executive director of Historic Manassas, Inc., leading efforts to bring all ages together through inclusive design, economic opportunity, and civic activation in downtown Manassas, Virginia. She also has deep knowledge of the public education sector through her long history of service with Manassas City Public Schools as a member of the school board and board of directors of the Education Foundation.
Kiefer’s appointment follows an extensive national search to identify a successor for long-time executive director Donna Butts, who will continue with Generations United as a senior fellow focusing on her book launch and special projects.
For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Sheri Steinig at ssteinig@gu.org.
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About Generations United:
For more than three decades, Generations United’s mission has been to improve the lives of children, youth, and older adults through intergenerational collaboration, public policies, and programs for the enduring benefit of all. As the leading advocate for intergenerational initiatives, Generations United sparks cooperation across ages, harnessing the vibrancy and productivity that emerge when people of all ages come together. Learn more at www.gu.org.