Wilder Foundation selects new president and CEO

The Amherst H. Wilder Foundation's board of directors voted Thursday to replace outgoing president and CEO Tom Kingston with Wilder employee MayKao Hang.

Hang has served at the foundation's director of children and family services since 2007.

In a statement released Thursday, the St. Paul-based non-profit highlighted Hang's leadership experience "during times of great change."

Hang has overseen the merger and restructuring of two large divisions at Wilder and "guided the development of innovative programs to address disparities in children's mental health services," the statement said.

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She has also served as director of adult services for Ramsey County Human Services.

"As the foundation continues its commitment to serving the East Metro area, we believe Wilder, as well as the community, will benefit greatly from Ms. Hang's experience, creativity and passion for service," said Wilder Board Chair Sandy Kiernat.

Hang received the Ann Bancroft Dream Maker Award last year, in recognition of her work with Hmong girls and women.

She will become the non-profit's sixth president and CEO on July 1, upon Kingston's retirement. Kingston has led the foundation since 1990.