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Eckerd Connects Fortifies Leadership and Revamps Digital Presence

Eckerd Connects, recognized as the largest workforce development non-profit in the U.S., recently unveiled significant changes in its senior leadership and launched a revamped website aimed at enhancing its national presence. These strategic updates are geared towards expanding partnerships and boosting philanthropy at a time when underserved communities face mounting challenges.

Founded in 1968, Eckerd Connects operates in 20 states and Washington, D.C., providing essential services to over 250,000 youths, adults, children, and families each year. Their primary focus lies in workforce development, juvenile justice services, Job Corps operations, and children and family services. With Michael D. Smith, former CEO of AmeriCorps, at the helm as President and CEO since June 2025, the organization is poised for significant growth and impact.

Strengthening Leadership for Enhanced Outcomes

The recent appointments of pivotal leadership roles aim to bolster Eckerd Connects' capacity to engage employers, funders, and public partners effectively.

• - Amy Seusing, taking on the role of Chief Development Officer, brings substantial experience in philanthropy and institutional fundraising. Her previous tenure at Jobs for the Future and the Obama Foundation equips her to enhance Eckerd’s development strategy further, encouraging sustainable impact through expanded investments and partnerships.

• - Ursula Wright, now the Chief Strategy Officer, has an invaluable background in education and policy. Her experience at WestEd and as a senior political appointee at the U.S. Department of Education will steer Eckerd Connects in strategic growth and innovation.

• - Jenny Mauk, Chief of Staff, will support executive operations leveraging her extensive experience from AmeriCorps. Mauk's role will ensure organizational alignment across Eckerd Connects’ national initiatives.

• - Trish Jones, promoted to Chief Communications and Public Affairs Officer, will oversee communications strategies aimed at enhancing the organization’s national visibility and partnership opportunities.

• - Martin Peters, now Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel, has been with Eckerd for over 15 years and will manage legal and administrative functions critical to Eckerd's governance and cross-functional operations.

This strengthened leadership team is essential as Eckerd Connects aims to close the opportunity gap, connecting young adults with the education and training necessary for career success and economic stability.

Launching a Modernized Digital Platform

Alongside the leadership reshuffling, Eckerd Connects also introduced a modernized website that illustrates its national, partnership-driven approach. The site is designed to serve diverse audiences, allowing individuals and families to explore services and connect with local programs seamlessly.

For employers, community organizations, and public agencies, the new website outlines clear pathways for partnership, making it easier for stakeholders to collaborate with Eckerd Connects. Funders and civic leaders can also gain insight into Eckerd’s national reach and the pivotal role of public-private partnerships in achieving measurable results.

This digital upgrade reflects Eckerd Connects’ commitment to linking communities with the necessary support to build momentum towards their goals. It ensures that individuals have the opportunities to thrive while the organization continues fostering impactful collaborations across the nation.

The new website is now live at www.eckerd.org.

Through these strategic changes, Eckerd Connects is set to deepen its impact in workforce development, furthering its mission to create lasting economic opportunities for underserved populations. The organization stands ready to face the growing challenges of today by enhancing its leadership and digital engagement.