GEEARS Welcomes a New Chief Executive Officer
Friends,
On behalf of the GEEARS Board of Directors, I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Kristin Bernhard as GEEARS’ new Chief Executive Officer, effective May 4th.
Kristin brings to GEEARS a wealth of experience and deep credibility within the early childhood education landscape. After serving in organizations ranging from the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning to Start Early, Kristin was most recently Executive Director of Corporate and Social Responsibility & Public Advocacy for Primrose Schools, as well as Executive Director of Primrose’s Children’s Foundation.
“I am honored to step into the role of CEO at this pivotal moment for young children and families across our state,” Kristin says. “Ensuring quality early learning and healthy development for all children has been at the center of my work throughout my career. It is also a mission that is deeply personal to me as a mom of a one-year-old and a four-year-old. I am excited to join the GEEARS team and build on the strong momentum already in place with so many committed partners, communities, families, and policymakers to ensure a strong early foundation for every child.”
A respected advocate, Kristin has spent her career advancing evidence-based solutions that improve outcomes for young children and strengthen the systems that support them. As a trusted collaborator, strategic leader, and eloquent voice for children and families, she embodies values that are central to GEEARS’ mission.
The Board conducted our search with a bold vision and a long list of qualities and qualifications. Kristin’s reputation, leadership, and extensive experience uniquely position her to guide GEEARS into its next chapter.
“Over the past decade, I’ve had the pleasure of working with Kristin in various capacities,” says GEEARS’ former Executive Director, Mindy Binderman. “In addition to her creativity, care, and dedication, she brings to GEEARS a deep well of knowledge about early childhood systems and the needs of children, families, and educators. Under Kristin’s leadership, I’m confident that GEEARS will continue to thrive and make a vital impact on our state’s early childhood landscape.”
We are excited to welcome Kristin and look forward to the energy, expertise, and insight she will bring to our organization.
As we embark upon this transition, we’re grateful for your continued support, which makes GEEARS’ work for Georgia’s youngest children, their families, and the professionals who care for them possible.
Please join us in welcoming Kristin as she steps into this new role.
With gratitude and enthusiasm,
Stephanie V. Blank
Board Chair, GEEARS