Operation New Hope Hires New President and Reorganizes Executive Team

Following a strong 2019, when the organization helped nearly 1,000 clients, Operation New Hope is focused on advancing our mission and helping even more Floridians affected by the justice system through our nationally recognized Ready4Work program. With that goal in mind, ONH is bolstering its leadership team in preparation for expansion and numerous other initiatives in 2021 aimed at supporting more returning citizens throughout the state of Florida.  We are excited to announce the following leadership additions:

·         Scott Suozzi has been hired to fill the newly created position of President. He will oversee the day-to-day operations at ONH, which will allow Kevin Gay, founder and CEO to focus on fund development, policy and advocacy work. 

·         Reggie Fullwood has been promoted to the new position of Chief Engagement Officer. He has served as Ready4Work program director since May of 2019, and will now be responsible for community engagement, marketing, grant management and supporting fund development. 

·         Gretchen Hamm has been promoted from Clinical Services Director to Ready4Work Program Director. She has a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector and has excelled since joining ONH. She is a great fit for the position.

“After 21 years serving the community, I am responding to my heart’s call to expand our impact and shift my focus to advocacy and policy reform,” said Kevin Gay, Founder/CEO of Operation New Hope. “I remain passionately committed to the organization and its mission and I believe that my time is best spent expanding the agency’s efforts to affect systemic change.” Kevin will continue as the Chief Executive Officer of Operation New Hope, but will pass day-to-day leadership responsibilities to the new President on December 1, 2020.

Following a nationwide search and extensive review of many qualified applicants, Operation New Hope welcomes Scott Suozzi’s fresh perspective to broaden the organization’s potential and deepen relationships and connections. Scott is a Naval Academy graduate with 20 years’ active duty, retiring as a Commander.  While in the Navy, Scott obtained advanced degrees in business and law.

Scott is a proven and seasoned senior executive level policy advisor, legal counsel, and leader. He has years of experience in the areas of public policy, law, human resources, operations, international diplomacy, legislation, government relations, non-profits and overall performance of large and diverse mission-driven organizations.

As the new Chief Engagement Office, Reggie Fullwood will develop and facilitate relationships between the organization and its many partners, supporters, community leaders, and stakeholders to support reentry program expansion and advocacy to capitalize on great bipartisan public support. Gretchen Hamm will continue the great work of our nationally acclaimed Ready4Work reentry program in her new position as Director.

Operation New Hope is pleased to be bringing on new talent with fresh perspectives to broaden the agency’s connections and expand our potential. Everyone at the organization is excited about this opportunity for growth.