The AISES Board of Directors has named an interim leadership team to guide the organization following the departure of President Sarah EchoHawk, who is leaving AISES effective November 1, 2026.
Beginning November 2, 2026, AISES will be led by three members of its executive leadership team working together: Amy Weinstein, Senior Vice President; Kellie Jewett-Fernandez, Vice President of Business Development; and Dr. Kathy DeerInWater, Vice President of Strategic Impact. Together they bring deep experience across AISES’ operations, programs, partnerships, research, and strategy, and each has worked closely with Sarah and the Board for years. They will lead AISES until a new President is appointed.
“Amy, Kellie, and Kathy know this organization and this community inside and out, and they have the full confidence of the Board,” said Mike Laverdure, Chair of the AISES Board of Directors. “Naming an interim team from within our own leadership keeps AISES steady and focused on the people we serve while we conduct a thoughtful national search for our next President.”
The Board has launched a national search for AISES’ next President and is in the process of selecting an executive search firm. Mike Laverdure chairs the search committee, which includes members of the Board, former Board leaders, and a representative of the AISES staff. The Board will continue to work alongside the interim leadership team throughout the transition.
“I could not be leaving AISES in better hands,” said Sarah EchoHawk. “This team has helped build AISES into what it is today, and I know they will carry it forward with the same care and commitment.”
AISES programs, partnerships, and events will continue as planned. Questions about the transition may be directed to futurepresident@aises.org.