Last week, Susan Wallace assumed leadership of LeadingAge Ohio, succeeding Kathryn Brod who had served as the organization’s Chief Executive for nearly eight years. At a gathering of members and colleagues this week, each of LeadingAge Ohio’s previous board members shared words of gratitude for Brod, who came to LeadingAge Ohio after a long career serving non-profit aging services in various capacities.
In written remarks, Rev. Ken Daniel, President/CEO of United Church Homes noted, “Kathryn has been the consummate leader who was the right person at the right moment in LeadingAge Ohio’s history.” Current LeadingAge Ohio Board Chair Allison Salopeck, President/CEO of Jennings, noted Brod was “the most selfless person I know,” and colleagues shared stories and gratitudes for Brod’s service to the organization, which included preparing her successor.
Wallace now leads the organization, having served in association management for the past fifteen years, following a brief career as a hospice social worker. Wallace began at LeadingAge Ohio following eight years with the Midwest Care Alliance prior to its merger with LeadingAge Ohio in 2014 and has steered advocacy work for LeadingAge Ohio since 2019, serving as spokesperson and subject matter expert for Medicaid reimbursement and other policy issues. “I am so honored to be able to continue Kathryn’s legacy at LeadingAge Ohio,” remarked Wallace. “We have seen LeadingAge Ohio’s reputation and influence grow in recent years. Our members are known as collaborators and thought leaders in their communities. I look forward to helping our organization maintain that trajectory into the future, ensuring that Ohio continues to be a great place to age.”