Overview of the Upcoming Search for the Next President & CEO of the Amarillo Area Foundation
The Amarillo Area Foundation is entering a period of important transition as we begin the search for our next President & CEO. This follows the recent and profound loss of our long-standing leader, Clay Stribling, whose unwavering commitment, compassion, and visionary leadership shaped the Foundation into the vital force for good it is today. Clay’s legacy is deeply embedded in every corner of our organization, and his impact will continue to guide our work for years to come.
During this transition, Keralee Clay will continue to serve as Interim President & CEO, providing steady leadership and continuity. Keralee’s deep knowledge of the Foundation and her unwavering commitment to our mission make her an invaluable leader as we navigate this important period.
The Board of Trustees now undertakes one of its most important responsibilities: identifying and selecting the next leader of the Foundation. To that end, a dedicated search committee—comprised of current and former board members—has been formed to oversee this critical process. After careful consideration, the board has selected WittKieffer, a premier international Executive Search & Advisory Solutions firm, to lead the search. WittKieffer will guide a thoughtful and inclusive process, listening to voices across our community to discern the qualities most essential in our next President & CEO.
OVERVIEW OF THE PROCESS
Phase One: Gather Community Input to Create and Refine the Leadership Profile
We began this process by gathering meaningful input from our community to help create and refine the leadership profile for our next President & CEO. This included a combination of surveys, and in-person meetings designed to ensure we incorporate diverse perspectives from across the region.
In the spring of 2025, leaders of the WittKieffer team—including local professionals—met with Amarillo Area Foundation staff, board members, donors, and community partners. These conversations were essential in shaping a clear and informed understanding of the qualities, experiences, and leadership approach most needed in our next President & CEO.
Phase Two: Recruit and Interview the Best Qualified Candidates
In this phase, WittKieffer will lead a national search to identify, recruit, and interview a highly qualified group of candidates. Their work will support a thoughtful and thorough process aimed at selecting the best individual to lead the foundation into its next chapter. We welcome recommendations from the community and encourage anyone interested in learning more about the position or application process to visit https://wittkieffer.com/positions/201113 or email AAF_President-CEO@wittkieffer.com.
Phase Three: Select, Announce, and Introduce the New President to the Community
In the final phase, the top candidate will be selected, and the decision will be formally announced. The new President & CEO will then be introduced to the community, with opportunities to begin building relationships and engaging with key stakeholders. This phase is expected to take place in late 2025.
Engaging with the Process
Community members may ask questions or nominate qualified candidates by emailing the search firm at AAF_President-CEO@wittkieffer.com.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement in this process.
Sharon White, AAF Board Chair
Amarillo Area Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and respectful environment where all employees can thrive.
