Several key leaders have been promoted at Heart to Heart International (HHI). These promotions reflect HHI’s dedication to cultivating talent from within, ensuring leaders possess deep institutional knowledge and strong alignment with HHI’s mission and values. With these strategic leadership promotions, the organization will be positioned for even greater impact in the face of changing and escalating healthcare challenges worldwide.
The following individuals have been promoted as of February 2025:
- Tenagashaw (Tena) Tiruneh, Senior Vice President of Programs: Tena Tiruneh joined HHI in 2019 and has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s programs. His strategic thinking and ability to execute complex initiatives have been invaluable to HHI’s success, and his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic response earned him the prestigious Equality in Action Philanthropy Award. As Senior Vice President of Programs, Tena will oversee all programmatic initiatives, including Disaster Response, Laboratory, Community Health, Hygiene Kits, and Access to Medicine. He will collaborate with global partners to enhance these programs and expand access to healthcare. Tena’s dedication to HHI’s mission and his commitment to health equity will guide the organization toward making an even greater impact in global health.
- Dan Neal, Senior Vice President of Operations: Dan Neal began his career at HHI in the warehouse in 1999 and has progressively taken on roles of increasing responsibility. With a master’s degree in International Studies from the University of Kansas and a certificate in Health Care and Humanitarian Logistics from Georgia Tech, he previously served as Vice President of Operations and initiated the Access to Medicine program, a cornerstone of HHI’s work. As Senior Vice President of Operations, Dan will provide strategic leadership and oversight for HHI’s operational functions. He will work closely with the CEO to ensure organizational success, manage risk, and optimize resource allocation. His understanding of HHI’s history and operations will be critical in guiding the organization’s future growth.
- Heather Lee, Vice President of Development: Heather Lee brings a wealth of experience to this role, including her service as HHI’s Director of Disaster Response, where she oversaw humanitarian efforts in numerous countries. Her background also includes consulting for the Maryland Department of Health on COVID-19 recovery and service as a U.S. Army aviation officer. In her role as Vice President of Development, Heather will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies, cultivating relationships with donors, and leading innovative fundraising campaigns. She will lead a high-performing team to secure the necessary resources to support HHI’s vital programs and ensure the organization’s long-term financial health.
- AnnMarie Thomas, Vice President of People and Organizational Development: AnnMarie Thomas has a distinguished record of service in the Kansas City nonprofit sector. With nearly 20 years of experience in volunteer engagement, marketing, communications, and community outreach, she has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing nonprofit organizations. In her role in the new position of Vice President of People and Organizational Development, AnnMarie will provide strategic leadership to advance HHI’s mission by fostering a culture of engagement, inclusion, and innovation. She will oversee People Services, including Volunteer Services, HR, and IT, ensuring alignment between people-focused initiatives, staff development, and organizational growth strategies.
- Also, effective April 2025, Emily Thurman will be named Vice President of Marketing & Communications: Emily Thurman is a results-driven marketing leader with extensive experience in bringing a strategic, data-driven approach to brand growth and audience engagement. Her background includes 15 years at Hallmark Cards and a decade at DEMDACO. Since joining HHI in 2024, she has already made a significant impact, laying the groundwork for increased brand recognition and global reach. As Vice President of Marketing & Communications, Emily will play a crucial role in shaping HHI’s image and communicating its mission to the world. She will direct all marketing efforts, leveraging digital channels, traditional media, and innovative strategies to increase awareness, engagement, and support for HHI’s vital work.
These strategic leadership promotions are key components of HHI’s plan to enhance its capacity to deliver critical medical and humanitarian aid. By strengthening its leadership team, HHI is poised to expand its reach, improve its program effectiveness, and make a more significant contribution to global health.