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Originally airing Thursday, May 23, 2019

WRFA’s Jason Sample talks with newly appointed Robert H. Jackson Center president Kristan McMahon to learn more about her vision for the organization as well as some upcoming projects and programs that are taking shape for this summer.

Kristan McMahon

After an extensive national search led by a team of current board members, McMahon’s appointment was announced in April 2019. She will be responsible for leading the Jackson Center’s team of professionals while growing the scope, reach, and value of the organization to its local, regional, and national partners, the Jamestown community, donors and sponsors, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

“We are very excited that Kristan is taking on the role of President of the Jackson Center,” says Tom Schmidt, Chair of the Jackson Center Board and current interim President. “She brings a clear vision and an exceptional combination of energy, leadership, and a legal background. We expect that Kristan will be able to continue and grow our excellent programming, but also work with partners and donors to help bring Justice Jackson’s values and message to a wider audience. The Board of Directors is looking forward to establishing a strong working relationship with Kristan as she moves into this new role.”

McMahon joins the Jackson Center after nearly 20 years as a practicing attorney and brings a wide range of experience in the non-profit and association sector.

One of the hallmarks of her most recent work is the diversity and inclusion guidance she has provided to non-profits and associations over the last two years; she also brings significant non-profit board experience, on national and regional organizations. Most recently, McMahon was Principal of Vetted Solutions, a Washington, DC-based company focused on providing executive search solutions as well as diversity and inclusion and succession planning guidance to associations and non-profits across the United States. Prior to that, Kristan was Counsel-Antitrust for Verizon and a staff attorney with Howrey, LLP.

McMahon is a 1997 graduate of St. Bonaventure University and a 2000 graduate of The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law. She serves on the boards of Youth For Understanding, Sitar Arts Center, and American Association of University Women-Falls Church (VA) Branch. She previously served as a member of St. Bonaventure University’s Board of Trustees and as President of St. Bonaventure’s National Alumni Association Board.

“Justice Jackson’s values and guidance are just as relevant today as they were when he served as Solicitor General, Attorney General, Supreme Court Justice or chief prosecutor of the Nuremberg Trials,” said Kristan. “He began as a successful lawyer in the Jamestown community and became a voice of conscience on the national and international stages. His commitment to social justice and civil liberties serve as a reminder for a world calling out for those qualities today. I am honored to work with our board, volunteers, and partners to ensure his wisdom continues to expand its reach.”

McMahon’s first day the Jackson Center was April 29.