Friends of Daystar Kids,

 

I am delighted to notify you that the Daystar Kids Board of Directors has appointed Dr. Seanelle Hawkins, Ed.D. as our next Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Hawkins will officially join us on May 1, 2026.

 

Last year, we launched a national search to find the next leader for Daystar. Dr. Hawkins comes to us as the former President and CEO of the Urban League of Rochester, where she drove transformational organizational growth, doubled the operating budget, and built lasting community impact. With more than 20 years of executive experience spanning nonprofit, healthcare-adjacent, and early childhood sectors, she brings exactly the combination of strategic leadership and mission alignment that Daystar Kids needs at this moment.

 

This appointment is a catalyst. Daystar Kids has ambitious growth plans, and Dr. Hawkins arrives ready to accelerate them. As New York State's only Pediatric Complex Care Learning Center, our role in the Greater Rochester medical and childcare communities is unique and vital — and her leadership will strengthen that presence in meaningful ways. We expect her background building high-impact partnerships and expanding funding streams to open important new doors for our organization and the families we serve.

 

Your partnership and investment in Daystar Kids has made this moment possible. We are grateful for your continued belief in our mission and your commitment to the children and families at the heart of everything we do.

 

We look forward to introducing Dr. Hawkins to many of you in the weeks ahead. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

 

With appreciation,

 

Phil Castleberry

President, Board of Directors

Daystar Kids

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For more information click here:

https://rbj.net/2026/03/26/daystar-kids-names-dr-seanelle-hawkins-ceo-rochester/