Today, we’re announcing Josie Hernandez as DONA’s new Executive Director.
Josie comes to us with 10 years of association, certification board, education and learning delivery management experience, including leadership roles with the Institute of Real Estate Management, the Retail Training Institute of Instituto del Progreso Latino, and most recently, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She is a University of Illinois graduate, and has earned her Institute for Organizational Management (IOM) recognition.
Josie is passionate about health equity and the importance of diversity in the healthcare profession. She believes doulas have a unique opportunity to deliver culturally competent, patient-centered care that can make an impact on the reduction of healthcare disparities.
“I appreciate the board’s confidence in me, and I am honored to have the opportunity to lead such a great organization. I look forward to advancing the mission of DONA International to promote high quality birth, postpartum, and community-centered doula support by setting the standard for the doula profession through evidence-based training and certification for doulas of diverse backgrounds. I am excited to partner with the board to lead the growth of DONA International in support of the vision for there to be a doula for every person that wants one.”
DONA also thanks Jose Segarra as he steps down from the Executive Director role to focus on other clients. While Josie adjusts to her new role, Jose will still be around to provide feedback and help the DONA team as needed. Jose, we appreciate you and the hard work you provided over the past couple years, and wish you the best of luck with your new clients. They’re lucky to have you!