The Virginia Hemophilia Foundation (VHF) would like to share some important and exciting news with our community. On September 15th, our Executive Director, Kelly Waters, will be transitioning into a new role with the Hemophilia Alliance.
Kelly has been the heart of VHF for nearly 20 years, leading with compassion, vision, and dedication. While we will miss her daily leadership and the sense of family she helped create, we are thrilled that she will continue making a difference in the bleeding disorders community through her new position.
As we look toward the future, the VHF Board of Directors and staff are working closely together to ensure a smooth transition. We are pleased to share that Heather Conner, VHF’s current Assistant Director, will step in as Interim Executive Director during this time. Over the past 15 years, Heather has worked side by side with Kelly, learning from her mentorship and demonstrating unwavering dedication to VHF’s mission. We are confident that Heather will guide the community through this transition with care, compassion, and steady leadership.
We also recognize that change can bring mixed emotions, and it is natural to feel both gratitude and sadness. Please know that Kelly will not be far away, and we will keep you informed every step of the way as we move into the next exciting phase for VHF.
Our commitment to serving the bleeding disorders community remains as strong as ever. With Heather’s leadership and the support of our dedicated Board of Directors, we will continue building a strong, connected, and resilient community. Thanks to Kelly’s leadership, we are also in a strong financial position and well-resourced to handle this transition.
Please join us in thanking Kelly for her nearly two decades of service to VHF and in welcoming Heather as she steps into this new role. We also ask for your patience and understanding as we adjust from a staff of two to one. Some things may temporarily be on pause over the next few months, but our focus on advocacy, education, and community will not change.
