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 Mt. Vernon, NY - The Wartburg Foundation announces the appointment of Katherine D. Guenther of Pelham, N.Y., as its second President and CEO.
Kate comes to the Foundation from the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, where she was Deputy Director for Development. Earlier she ran the development offices at University Settlement and The Door in New York City, and administered the New York Community Trust’s Fund for Women and Girls in White Plains, NY.
The Wartburg mission to nurture body, mind and spirit attracted Kate to the position. “Care here is defined by values, not solely by medicine or the bottom line,” she said. “This reflects the Founders’ conviction that a faith-based approach contributes to well-being and to a community in which residents can thrive.” Kate succeeds Edgar J. Myers, who established the Foundation 17 years ago and is retiring.
Rich Ertel, chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, stated that the search committee interviewed candidates from around the country. The search process lasted over six months. “We are delighted, and I think she’s the perfect person,” said Ertel. “As the organization expands there will be tremendous opportunities for us. Kate has a lot of ideas and is right on track.”
“She brings a whole new perspective and breadth of knowledge,” said Frank Tripodi, President and CEO of The Wartburg Adult Care Community (2). “We’re going to add corporate and foundation support, with a large push to involve other faith traditions. I’m glad she’s here.”
Among her priorities is to build on Myers’ legacy. “I will continue Ed’s watchful oversight of the endowment, and nurture the strong ties we have with the Lutheran community. We will also broaden our base with a new ‘generation’ of funders. After all, the team of pastoral caregivers on staff spans all faiths and helps define our standard of care,” said Guenther. She will also raise awareness of The Wartburg’s comprehensive programs that support all stages of aging and reflect the latest thinking in gerontology.
Guenther describes her management style as collaborative and goal-driven. She isn’t shy about the challenges that lie ahead, particularly the continuing economic crisis. She quickly points out that local families caring for their elderly loved ones “need us more than ever.” Kate hopes that she can help sustain The Wartburg’s unique programs, and bring them to many more families, regardless of their financial resources.
Kate’s ties to the Westchester community date back to 1975 when she enrolled at Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY. As a mother of four, she volunteered for many years at the Hoff-Barthelson Music School in Scarsdale, NY and the Pelham Children’s Center, helping launch its after-school program and establish an endowment.
The Wartburg Foundation is located in Mount Vernon, NY and its mission is to raise funds from donors, manage their endowment and make grants to assist the Wartburg Community, Lutheran Ministries and other charities so that older adults may live with dignity.
The Wartburg Adult Care Community, located in Mount Vernon, NY, serves people of all faiths with residential options and health-related services for older area adults and their families, which include 24-hour skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, assisted and independent living, adult day services, home care, memory care, pastoral care and monthly caregiver support groups.
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