Frieson will succeed Gene Hayes, who will retire at the end of 2015. “Ron’s innate leadership abilities will allow him to help raise critical funds for our entire System,” Gene said. “I feel fortunate to be transitioning this role to someone as capable and genuinely passionate about our Mission as Ron.”
Ron has been a strong leader and critical member of the Children’s Executive Team for nearly seven years. In his current role as Chief Public Policy Officer, Ron leads government relations and community outreach efforts. He has been instrumental in the development of a community outreach program and has led policy efforts to help ensure Children’s is an important voice in critical national dialogue around caring for kids.
“We are grateful to Gene for his more than 25 years of service and excited about Ron as his successor. Ron has played an integral role in our continued dedication to caring for Georgia’s kids,” said Donna Hyland, CEO at Children’s. “His keen passion for the Children’s Mission coupled with his strong community relationships make him uniquely qualified to lead our Foundation into the future.”
Prior to joining Children’s, Ron served in several key positions for BellSouth, including President of Georgia Operations and the organization’s first Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer. He also served in an interim role as President of the Atlanta Urban League. Ron is active in the Atlanta community, serving as a board member for several organizations, including American InterContinental University, Colorado Technical University, SunTrust Bank–Atlanta and Zoo Atlanta.