RFK Community Alliance names Ernst as new chief operating officer
Photo | Courtesy of RFK Community Alliance
Robyn Ernst, chief operating officer at RFK Community Alliance
Robyn Ernst, a former vice president at Springfield-based Center for Human Development, has been named the next chief operating officer of Lancaster-based RFK Community Alliance.
Ernst has 25 years of experience in human services and more than 15 years of nonprofit and public sector leadership experience, according to a press release issued by RFK on Monday.
Ernst replaces interim chief operating officer Kathy Mills, who filled the role in January following the retirement of longtime RFK executive Cindy Wing. Mills was later elevated to the role of CEO and president on a permanent basis in June.
"Robyn brings not only a wealth of professional expertise, but also a deep personal commitment to the values at the heart of RFK Community Alliance," Mills said in the press release. "Her leadership is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a true understanding of the challenges our program participants face. We are excited for the many ways she will help us grow and develop as an organization, and the positive impact she will have on our staff, programs, and—most importantly—the people we serve."
Ernst holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Fitchburg State University and a bachelor’s degree from Lesley University in Cambridge.
Prior to serving as vice president of adult mental health & substance uses services at the Center for Human Development, she directed Project W.O.R.T.H, an innovative integrated care initiative for survivors of human trafficking run by Worcester-based Community Healthlink. Ernst is certified in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy and as an end-of-life doula through the University of Vermont.
Established in 1896, RFK is a multi-service agency providing services to families facing complicated challenges, including caring for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health concerns, and substance use disorders.
RFK had $46.49 million in revenue in fiscal 2024, making it the 17th largest human services nonprofit in Central Massachusetts, according to information provided to the WBJ Research Department. The nonprofit has 437 employees.
Eric Casey is the managing editor at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the manufacturing and real estate industries.
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