Leadership

John Crawford President - Leadership

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John Crawford is President of the organization and oversees all aspects of administration, staffing, programs, and fundraising. John has been with JA of WNY since 2022.

"I've been associated with JA as a volunteer, board chair, and president for years. It's hugely fulfilling to be part of a region wide team of people and organizations committed to the education and success of young people and our community's future."

Anna Fohrd Senior Operations Director - Operations

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716-853-1381

Ext: 214

Anna Fohrd serves as Senior Operations Director and is responsible for accounting, human resources, technology, and all other aspects of office management. Anna has been with JA of WNY since 1990.

"I've been with JA for 31 years and had the pleasure to experience years of JA's growth. I'm very proud to be part of the JA team."

Alycia Ivancie Program Director - Education

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716-853-1381

Ext: 215

Alycia Ivancie is the Program Director and is responsible for implementation of current JA learning experience initiatives, development and facilitation of new JA learning experiences; including JA specialty programs, JA digital/virtual programs, as well as implementation of JA volunteer delivery models. Alycia has been with JA of WNY since 2001.

"I choose to work for JA of WNY because I have college degrees in both Communication Studies (undergrad) and Education (masters). I had never thought about working for a non-profit and didn't even know what Junior Achievement was, but working for JA was kind of the best of both worlds for me!"

Kara Hyman Program Manager - Education

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716-853-1381

Ext: 213

Kara Hyman serves as Program Manager and is responsible for overall implementation of Junior Achievement learning experiences in local schools and after school community sites. Kara is responsible for database management, recruitment, training, and placement of volunteer program participants. Kara has been with JA of WNY since 2020.

"I chose to work with JA because I wanted to be a part of an organization that was about the greater good. I've had a few corporate jobs, and the more years I was spending in those industries, the more I realized how I wanted to switch gears and break out of those certain types of jobs. It's really been a great fit for me."

Katie Babcock Events & Communications Manager - Development

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716-853-1381

Ext: 210

Katie Babcock serves as Events & Communications Manager. This position assures the efficient operation of the various fundraising events, develops timetables and marketing pieces, disseminates social media & press releases, maintains our website, engages volunteers, secures sponsors and prizes. Katie has been with JA of WNY since 2021.

"I'm happy to be working directly with Western New York businesses and to be a part of such a wonderful learning experience for local students. JA works to fill the gap between education and employment and prepare young people to succeed through workforce readiness skills, how to prepare for a career, how to budget and manage finances, just to name a few. These are crucial, real-world skills."

Joanne Warren Manager, Career Pathways Coaching Program - Education

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716-853-1381

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Joanne Warren is the Manager of the Career Pathways Coaching Program, which is designed to empower young adults by providing personalized career guidance and skill development. Through collaborative community relationships, she ensures the program meets its goals, aligns with organizational objectives, and complies with grant requirements. Joanne has been with JA of WNY since 2025.

"I’m excited to be working for JA because I strongly believe in the power of education. JA provides students opportunities and experiences that enhance their learning and prepares them for the workforce. Through connections with local businesses and educational partners I hope to expand these opportunities for young adults in WNY."

Katharine Cassens Development Specialist - Development

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716-853-1381

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Katharine Cassens serves part-time as Development Specialist. She is responsible for corporate and foundation grants, sponsorships, and individual gifts. Katharine has been with JA of WNY since 2024.

"I believe that learning is a life-long process, and I’m fortunate to work for an organization dedicated to providing students, beginning in Kindergarten, with the knowledge and skills that will help them long after they leave the classroom. JA builds a strong foundation for new generations of learners, creating opportunities for continued growth and success, whether it’s educationally, professionally, and/or personally."