July 15, 2025

Dear Friends,

We know two emails in two weeks is a lot, and we promise not to make it a habit. But it has been a milestone week at Vista Maria, and we couldn’t keep it to ourselves! From new leadership to a new space in Detroit, we’re moving forward with clear purpose and a renewed sense of possibility. We’re excited to share the good news with you.

Meet Our New CEO: Kathy Regan

We’re proud to share that Kathy Regan has been named Vista Maria’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective yesterday, July 14, 2025.

Kathy brings more than 30 years of experience in finance, operations, and organizational leadership, along with a deep commitment to Vista Maria's mission.

Kathy has been part of Vista Maria's leadership team since 2013, serving as Chief Financial Officer and playing a key role in shaping our agency’s strategy, infrastructure, and long-term sustainability.

She has led a range of transformative initiatives, including the design and construction of trauma-responsive treatment facilities, enhancements to campus safety, and the responsible termination of our frozen pension plan. 

She also served as president of Vista Affordable Housing Inc., and she sat on the board of InSight Youth & Family Connections until our merger was finalized in April 2025. Her work has been instrumental in expanding services for young survivors of human trafficking, launching supervised independent living programming, and increasing campus safety and infrastructure.

Before joining Vista Maria, Kathy was executive vice president of accounting and finance with Entertainment Promotions LLC in Troy, Michigan. She earned a bachelor’s degree in telecommunications from Michigan State University.

Beyond her impressive resume, Kathy brings something even more important: a fearless heart and a clear vision for what comes next.

In her own words, “It is with deep gratitude, and even deeper resolve, that I have accepted the appointment as CEO of Vista Maria. I step into this role fully aware of the weight of this moment and the strength of the people who carry this mission every day. We are not just experiencing change; we are shaping what comes next.

I believe in this team. I believe in our mission. And I believe that, together, we can stabilize and reimagine Vista Maria into what it needs to be for those we serve.”

Kathy is known for leading from the middle of the huddle. She’s a proud Spartan, a former athlete, and a team-oriented leader who shows up, digs in, and makes decisions that keep youth and families at the forefront.

We’re excited for this next chapter, and we’re grateful to have Kathy leading the way. Please join us in welcoming her as our new CEO!

A Homecoming to Detroit

Last week, we officially closed on the purchase of a new building in Detroit that will serve as the future office and program space for InSight Youth and Family Connections, now part of Vista Maria. We will still have our beautiful campus in Dearborn Heights, but we are excited to expand our reach into the community.

For the first time since the 1940s, Vista Maria is returning to the city of Detroit with a permanent presence. This is a homecoming that honors our history, and reflects our commitment to serving youth and families where they are.

We’re filled with gratitude for everyone who helped make this moment possible.

To Wendy Acho from NAI Farbman, thank you for your persistence and heart. You found more than a building. You found a space where healing and hope can grow.

To Tom O’Brien, thank you for entrusting us with a building that holds so much history and care. Your work in Old Redford has created a strong foundation, and we’re honored to carry it forward.

To the Vista Maria Board of Directors, thank you for asking the hard questions, staying mission-focused, and helping us see the big picture every step of the way.

And to Tawana Rogers-Reece, Executive Director of InSight Youth & Family Connections, whose vision and leadership shaped every part of this process, thank you. You imagined what this space could be long before it was ours, and you never stopped pushing to make it real.

This is a joyful and important step forward. We’re excited for all the ways this new space will support young people, strengthen families, and deepen our connection to the city of Detroit.

Pictured left to right: Mark Straetmans (Berry Moorman), Tawana Rogers-Reece (InSight Youth & Family Connections Executive Director), Kathy Regan (Vista Maria CEO), Tom O’Brien (seller), and Wendy Acho (NAI Farbman)

This has been a big week for Vista Maria, and it’s just the beginning. Kathy is already bringing fresh focus and energy, and our new Detroit space is filled with possibility. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or newly connected to this work, we’d love to keep the conversation going. Please don't hesitate to reach out anytime-- I'm always happy to connect.

With gratitude,

Kim Tyle, CFRE

Chief Development Officer