We have bad news. The relatively new President and CEO of the American Red Cross, Mark W. Everson, was asked to resign yesterday.

Yes, the reason for his departure is disappointing .  Yes, we insiders (employees and volunteers) are as shocked as you might be to learn about this.  Yes, we’re a big team of people accomplishing a big job. And yes, we will move forward, serving our mission and always striving to be better.

Yesterday morning began like any other for most of us, but by early afternoon we had all been given the news that we would once again be looking for new leadership.

I don’t have anything revolutionary to add to the statement. There were a few deer-in-the-headlights moments following the announcement to my particular department.  After our meeting I heard a few,  “Can you believe this?” discussions.  Then we all went back to work.

Here at the Red Cross we are used to responding to and caring for people who have suffered unimaginable losses. This situation is a different kind of loss for us personally, but one that we will rise above quickly. 

We so-called rank and file are busy carrying out the mission of the organization.

On we go.

Filed under: Leadership