Dear Volunteers,
I am writing to share news with you that is a source of sadness for AFS-USA but, on the other hand, is a joyful occasion for one of our key staff leaders. After much thought and reflection, our Chief Financial Officer, Susan Goldberg, has decided that she is ready to retire.
During her eight years at AFS-USA, Susan has maintained oversight not only of her departments but, likewise, some of the most monumental organizational projects and transitions, one of those being the consolidation from regional offices to one location, 120 Wall Street. As I’m sure you can imagine, it is difficult for us to adequately express our gratitude for all that she has done for our organization. Susan leaves behind a rich, positive, and highly regarded legacy that will have a long-lasting impact on AFS-USA and how we operate. We are grateful for this gift.
For me professionally, Susan has been a critically important and trusted partner in leading a rather complex AFS operation and I have benefitted tremendously from her knowledge, guidance, and support. Personally, I couldn’t be happier for her in that she will be able to dedicate her attention to enjoying her family and pursuing some of her personal interests.
Meanwhile, I am very pleased to announce that Michelle Pinedo has joined AFS-USA in the role of Chief Financial Officer as of January 6th. Michelle has over twenty-five years of financial and administrative experience in the non-profit sectors. Most recently, Michelle served as the Vice President for Finance and Operations at Episcopal Relief & Development, an international relief agency dedicated to facilitating healthier more fulfilling lives in communities struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Prior to that role she was the Director of Finance and Administration for Amref Health Africa, the largest African-based nonprofit that delivers health services to over 30 countries on the continent. She brings to the AFS-USA CFO role extensive experience in budgeting, board reporting, federal, state, and foundation grants, including NICRA negotiations, financial and operational oversight of international affiliates, HR systems implementation (performance management and compensation plans), and the creation of Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) programs for organizations. Michelle was drawn to AFS in part by our mission and brings to AFS-USA the skills necessary to aid in our pursuit of it. I hope you’ll join me in welcoming her to the global AFS network!
In preparing for her retirement, Susan was instrumental in working with me to identify her successor – someone who will be able to take forward the breadth of initiatives and priorities Susan has institutionalized.
In the meantime, and thankfully, Susan will remain with us until the end of this month to ensure that we benefit from a thorough and seamless transition.
Thank you,
Tara M. Hofmann
President & CEO
AFS-USA, Inc.