New Leadership at New Haven’s NewAlliance Foundation

Maryann Ott has been promoted to Executive Director of NewAlliance Foundation in New Haven. Ott previously held the position of Managing Director for 19 years, working with Kim A. Healey, who recently retired.

“We are pleased to have Maryann Ott take the helm of NewAlliance Foundation and implement the Foundation’s new strategic plan,” stated Robert J. Lyons, Jr., Chair of the Board of Directors of NewAlliance Foundation. “It is great to have Maryann in this leadership role as she has worked for NewAlliance Foundation since its founding and has demonstrated a passion to serve the community. She is committed to the Foundation’s values of accessible, fair, responsive grantmaking and is a proponent of social justice. Maryann will continue the high standards set for our foundation by Kim Healey,” Lyons added.

“I’m truly honored that the board has entrusted me with this challenge and responsibility,” Ott said. “I look forward to implementing the ambitious goals of the Foundation, by expanding partnerships, and deepening our commitment to racial equity.

LaKisha Jordan of Hamden has joined NewAlliance Foundation as Director of Programs. Jordan, previously worked as Vice President, Inclusion and Diversity, American Eagle Financial Credit Union. Prior to that, Jordan worked at KeyBank, where she served as Vice President, Regional Corporate Responsibility Officer. Ms. Jordan cultivated strategic partnerships with city, state, and community stakeholders, managed a diverse portfolio of millions of dollars in corporate sponsorships and philanthropic support, and established successful community outreach programs.

In her position Ms. Jordan will be responsible for implementing all grantmaking activities of the Foundation, including the management of special programs and initiatives. She will lead the Foundation’s signature literacy program READy for the Grade, a partnership with public libraries across NewAlliance Foundation’s service area designed to prepare K-3 children for grade level reading.

“NewAlliance Foundation is fortunate to have Lakisha Jordan join our team and I am eager to have her join me as we take the Foundation into the future,” Ott said. “LaKisha brings to her position deep relationships in the community and a dedicated commitment to equity and inclusion in her work” Ott added.

“I am excited to work collaboratively with Maryann advancing the strategic initiatives of the Foundation,” stated Jordan. “The Board of Directors is aware of the systematic barriers of racism and inequity in the communities the Foundation serves. Together Maryann and I are committed to partnering with community organizations and stakeholders moving forward the work of equity, inclusion, and access for those most in need.”

NewAlliance Foundation remains dedicated to the needs of children and families in a manner that builds pathways to success where all people can reach their fullest potential.

Established in 2004, the Foundation serves 42 communities across Connecticut. The mission of NewAlliance Foundation is to provide financial support to charitable organizations which advance literacy, build communities, and dismantle systems that perpetuate poverty and racism. Since its founding, NewAlliance Foundation has invested over $30 million in community organizations.

For more information visit www.newalliancefoundation.org or contact: Maryann Ott, Executive Director, NewAlliance Foundation 203-859-6555, email:mott@newalliancefoundation.org