A Message of Gratitude and Hope
From the Honorable Mary E. Sommer, Outgoing Chair, Hope for Haiti Board of Directors
As I complete my term as Chair of Hope for Haiti’s Board of Directors, my heart is full of gratitude—for the people of Haiti, for our incredible staff in Les Cayes and Naples, and for every supporter who has believed in this mission of hope.
When JoAnne M. Kuehner founded Hope for Haiti more than three decades ago, she built it on the belief that education, healthcare, clean water, and economic opportunity are the cornerstones of lasting change. That vision continues to inspire all of us today. I am deeply honored to have served during a time when JoAnne’s granddaughter, Tiffany Kuehner, carried forward her grandmother’s legacy with such compassion and integrity—reminding us all that hope, when nurtured through generations, has the power to transform entire communities.
Serving as Board Chair over the past five years has been one of the great honors of my life. From the moment I first visited Haiti, I was deeply moved by the strength, warmth, and perseverance of the Haitian people. That connection only deepened when my husband, Jay, and I renewed our wedding vows in Les Cayes—a moment that forever linked our hearts to the community that Hope for Haiti so lovingly serves.
During my time as Chair, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the tremendous dedication of our team as they navigated challenges with courage and compassion—from natural disasters to public health crises—always finding ways to bring healing, opportunity, and hope to those who need it most. I am especially proud of the progress we’ve made in strengthening our healthcare and education programs, expanding access to clean water, and building sustainable pathways for communities to thrive.
I want to extend my deepest thanks to our CEO, Skyler Badenoch, our exceptional staff, my fellow Board members, and the countless donors and partners who continue to make this work possible. Your belief in our shared vision—joyful children, healthy families, thriving communities, and the resources to make it so—has been the driving force behind every success.
As I step down as Chair, it brings me great joy to welcome Dr. Vladimir J. Mathieu as Hope for Haiti’s new Board Chair. Born in Les Cayes, Dr. Mathieu embodies the spirit and mission of this organization. His deep roots in Haiti, combined with his decades of experience as a physician and humanitarian, make him the perfect person to lead Hope for Haiti into its next chapter. I have no doubt that under his leadership, the organization will continue to grow, innovate, and transform lives across southern Haiti.
Although my role is changing, my commitment to Hope for Haiti remains steadfast. I am honored to continue serving on the Board of Directors and as a member of the Capital Campaign Committee, helping to build a new healthcare campus in southern Haiti—a bold next step in advancing the mission that began with JoAnne’s dream and continues to thrive through the dedication of so many.
To everyone who has walked alongside us in this journey, thank you. Hope for Haiti is not just an organization; it is a family. And though my title may change, my heart will always remain with this family and the people of Haiti.
With heartfelt gratitude and hope,
The Honorable Mary E. Sommer (ret.)
Outgoing Chair, Board of Directors
Hope for Haiti
