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Kathleen Harter Named Executive Director of the
American Red Cross Central and Northern New York Chapter
Published: June 02, 2026 at
10:45 a.m.
By: Press Release from American Red Cross Central and
Northern New York Chapter
Kathleen Harter Named Executive Director of the
American Red Cross Central and Northern New York Chapter
 Syracuse, NY — The American Red
Cross is pleased to announce the appointment of Kathleen “Kathy” Harter as
Executive Director of its Central and Northern New York Chapter.
Harter brings
more than 22 years of leadership experience from respected organizations
including REACH CNY, the Children’s Consortium, and Junior Achievement of
Central New York. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep and
consistent commitment to supporting children and families, guided by a
passion for helping individuals improve their lives and reach their full
potential.
A graduate of
SUNY Oswego, Harter was born and raised in Central New York and remains
closely connected to the community she now serves. She resides in Phoenix,
New York, with her husband and is a proud mother of two and grandmother of
one. Her professional experience and personal values reflect a strong
dedication to strengthening families and building healthier, more vibrant
communities.
“We are thrilled
to welcome Kathy to the Red Cross,” said Kevin Coffey, Regional Chief
Executive Officer, Eastern New York Region. “Her deep roots in Central New
York and her proven leadership will help strengthen our ties to the
community and expand our ability to serve those in need.”
“I am honored to
join the American Red Cross and serve the Central and Northern New York community,” said Harter. “The Red Cross has an
extraordinary mission—providing hope and help in moments of crisis—and I am
excited to work alongside such dedicated volunteers and staff to expand our
impact and ensure we are there for those who need us most.”
The Red Cross
also extends its sincere gratitude to retiring Executive Director Lisa
Smith for her years of dedicated service and leadership. Her commitment has
made a lasting impact on the organization and the communities it serves,
helping to build a strong foundation for continued success.
In her new role,
Harter will lead regional efforts to deliver disaster relief, support
military families, collect lifesaving blood, and provide health and safety
training across Central and Northern New York. Harter joins the Red Cross June 1st.
For more
information about the American Red Cross and its services, visit
redcross.org.
About the
American Red Cross:
The American Red
Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters;
supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives;
distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military
members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that
depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver
its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or
CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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