FFTA Announces Newly Elected Board Leaders for 2026

FFTA is pleased to announce newly elected leadership of its Board of Directors for 2026. These respected leaders from across the human services sector will help guide FFTA’s continued work to strengthen families, support communities, and advance the field.

FFTA is a trusted source of connection, education, and advocacy for organizations serving the well-being of families—partnering with child welfare, mental health, and other human service organizations to amplify their impact.

As FFTA looks ahead to the year before us, we are proud to recognize the following individuals who were elected to serve in key Board leadership roles:

• Chairperson: Erin Keltner, President – KVC West Virginia
• Vice Chairperson: Renee Brown, Chief Executive Officer – DePaul Community Resources
• Strategy & Foresight Committee Chairperson: Felicia Kellum, Senior Associate – Annie E. Casey Foundation
• Fund Development Committee Chairperson: William Matt, Chief Executive Officer – SAFY

Reflecting on this new chapter of leadership, Ryan Dowis, FFTA Executive Director, shared:

"FFTA is fortunate to have such a thoughtful and committed group of leaders in these governance roles, at a time when families, communities, and the organizations that serve them need strong partnership more than ever. Erin Keltner and this group of board leaders bring deep experience, vision, and heart to advancing our shared mission."

The newly elected members will work in close partnership with continuing members of FFTA’s Board leadership, including:

• State Chapter Council Chairperson: Melinda Waterman, State Manager – Blueprints
• Board Development Committee Chairperson: Kirsten Walker, Vice President of Learning & Organizational Development – Rise Services, Inc.
• Immediate Past Chairperson: Amy Strickler, Sr. Director of Quality Assurance & Contracts – Texas Family Care Network

Looking ahead, Erin Keltner, Board Chairperson, shared:

"I am honored to serve alongside such dedicated colleagues from across the FFTA community. I want to express my sincere appreciation to Amy Strickler for her steady leadership and commitment over the past two years. As we look ahead, I’m excited to work with the Board and staff to support our members in building communities where every family has the support they need — and every child has the chance to thrive."

Together, this leadership team, along with the full Board of Directors, reflects our ongoing commitment to the key values of compassion, integrity, and collaboration, and looks forward to connecting with the FFTA community through important conversations and convenings in the year ahead.

Driving Policy in Action for the Good of Families

Bringing family-serving professionals together in Washington, D.C., to advance policies that strengthen families and communities.

Four Decades of Fueling Change

Dynamic workshops, presentations, and networking experiences that equip individuals and organizations to strengthen their impact.