Adam's House founder Allison Wysota, right, welcomes Ann O'Leary as new executive director./Contributed photo
SHELTON - Allison Wysota, founder of Adam’s House, Connecticut’s only free-standing grief education and peer support center, proudly announces the appointment of Ann O’Leary as executive director.
Driven by recent initiatives and potential for growth, Wysota recognized the importance of identifying a new executive director with a breadth of expertise in fundraising and strategic development, coupled with an authentic connection to the mission of Adam’s House.
O’Leary brings current expertise as the Principal of Nonprofit Strategy and Management to her role at Adam’s House, fostering compassionate connections and strategic partnerships to enhance mission impact and organizational growth.
“Ann is respected in philanthropic circles for her dedication to building relationships, her exceptional financial insight, and her thoughtful, team-oriented leadership style,” Wysota said.
Before joining Adam’s House, O’Leary held senior strategic and philanthropic leadership roles at United Way, YMCA, Audubon Centers, Stanwich School, and a national nonprofit media organization.
She was honored with the Trustee Recognition Award from the Westport Y and is a two-time recipient of the Connecticut Audubon President’s Award.
O’Leary’s initial focus will be shaping and directing plans to ensure the organization’s continued success, starting with a Strategic Planning initiative that will begin in late 2025.
“Throughout my career, I have enjoyed tapping into the entrepreneurial energy of an organization to launch and expand programs, including fellowships that support leaders working to make a difference in the world,” commented O’Leary. “There is significant growth potential at Adam’s House, and I look forward to supporting grieving children through our much-needed programs.”
Wysota will continue to lead all programming. Her personalized grief education program, “Helping Hearts Heal” has helped transform the lives of more than 450 children and families since 2017. With O’Leary in place to oversee daily operations, Wysota will be able to focus on expanding and evolving the program offerings to meet the needs of grievers.
“Continued support from our friends and donors allows us to fulfill our mission to serve grieving children,” Wysota said. “With enhanced resources and planned program expansions, Adam’s House will remain a vital source of comfort and hope for families navigating loss.”
