Guardian Revival Announces Retirement of CEO Aaron Leonard, Names Kim Haight Interim CEO
Guardian Revival announced the retirement of CEO Aaron Leonard and the appointment of Kim Haight, MPA, as interim CEO, drawing on her more than a decade of nonprofit executive experience in organizational strategy, advocacy, crisis response, and cross-sector collaboration to guide the organization into its next chapter.
Kim Haight
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BEACON, N.Y. — March 25, 2026 — Guardian Revival announced the retirement of Chief Executive Officer Aaron Leonard and the appointment of Kim Haight, MPA, as interim chief executive officer while the board begins the process of selecting a permanent leader.
Leonard, a retired U.S. Army officer with more than 27 years of service, led Guardian Revival, focusing on the organization’s mission to support the mental health and resilience of military service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. Before becoming chief executive, he led the Another Summit program and advanced initiatives with Sierra Club Military Outdoors and the New York Outdoor Rx Coalition to expand veterans' access to public lands.
“It has been an honor to work with Guardian Revival and serve the community we’re here to support,” Leonard said. “I’m deeply grateful to our team, board, and partners for the work we’ve done together, and I’m proud of everything we’ve built.”
“On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire Guardian Revival community, we extend our sincere gratitude to Aaron for his years of service and steadfast commitment,” said Alex Othmer, President of the Board of Directors and Co-Founder of Guardian Revival. “His passion for the mission, his experience, and his steady guidance have made a meaningful impact on the organization and the people we serve.”
Haight brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience in organizational strategy, advocacy, crisis response, and mission-driven program development. Before joining Guardian Revival, she served as executive director of the Child Abuse Prevention Center and as the director of advocacy for the New York State Children’s Alliance. Her background also includes leadership in community impact strategy, outcome-based program design, and cross-sector collaboration with government, law enforcement, mental health providers, and community stakeholders.
“Guardian Revival’s mission is deeply meaningful, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help lead during this important moment,” Haight said. “My focus is on supporting our guardians, strengthening our momentum, and ensuring that our organization is well-positioned for future growth and able to support as many guardians as possible.”
“Kim is an experienced nonprofit leader who has committed her career to public service. She has a strong record of decision-making and managing complex organizations and building relationships that strengthen mission delivery,” said Alex Othmer. “We are confident that Kim will guide Guardian Revival with consistency, clarity, and a deep commitment to the people and communities we serve.”
Haight will lead the organization during the transition, helping to ensure continuity for staff, partners, and the communities Guardian Revival serves. Guardian Revival will share additional information about the executive appointment process at a later date.
About Guardian Revival
Guardian Revival is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that improves the mental health & well-being of military, veterans, and first responders — our guardians — and their families, at no cost to them.
Learn more: guardianrevival.org
Media Contact
Kevin Davis, Communications Manager
817-939-2801
