WASHINGTON — Lutheran Services in America, a national network of 300 faith-based health and human services provider organizations across the United States, announces the hiring of Sarah Haight as its vice president of program planning and growth.
Haight joins Lutheran Services in America with deep experience leading cross-sector partnerships and systems change work and maintains a strong commitment to equity and community-centered impact. In her new position, Haight will play a critical role in advancing the long-term strategic objectives of Lutheran Services in America through program growth, enterprise alignment, and relationship-driven investment strategies. She will be an important voice in bringing bold ideas to life and shaping and scaling some of the organization’s most dynamic national initiatives, including the Results Innovation Lab, Rural Aging Action Network, and Housing Solutions Collaborative.
“Sarah brings exceptional vision to our network as well as a fidelity to ensuring all people and communities have the opportunity to thrive,” said Alesia Frerichs, president and CEO of Lutheran Services in America. “Her experience in driving cross-sector collaboration and scaling innovative solutions will further improve our ability to meet the needs of communities across the country.”
Haight comes to Lutheran Services in America after spending nearly 15 years in several leadership roles at Ascend at the Aspen Institute. Most recently, she led a team that provided technical assistance and strategic guidance to organizations focused on fostering intergenerational opportunities. As the director of the organization’s 2Gen Practice, Haight combined strategic planning and a belief in the inherent expertise of people with lived experience with hands-on support with the goal of creating sustainable, impactful change for families across generations. She also holds extensive experience directing national convenings that elevate leaders and solutions focused on families with low incomes.
“I am honored and excited to work alongside such a passionate network of leaders dedicated to improving the lives and well-being of people nationwide,” said Haight. “I hope to build on the innovative models and extensive partnerships crafted by Lutheran Services in America to extend the level of impact felt in 1,400 communities.”
About Lutheran Services in America
Lutheran Services in America is one of the nation’s largest national networks of health and human service providers with a mission to cultivate caring communities that advance health and opportunity for all. With 300 nonprofit organizations across 1,400 U.S. communities, the Lutheran Services in America network works to improve outcomes for children, youth and families, improves independence and choice for older adults, champions meaningful services and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and strengthens stability and purpose for veterans and others. Formed in 1997, Lutheran Services in America brings together a network of leaders, partners and funders to catalyze innovation, strengthen organizational capacity and advance public policy.