The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County has appointed Kelley Coen as its chief executive officer, the organization announced in a press release.
Coen, currently the club’s chief advancement officer, will officially begin her new role Sept. 25.
“I am honored to be leading the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County,” Coen said in the announcement. “I look forward to guiding the organization and working with the staff and board on developing innovative ways to impact our strategic plan’s goals of growth, efficiency and safety — all with the intention of putting area kids and teens on the path to Great Futures.”
Coen identified overseeing the renovation and expansion of the club’s 95 Church St. facility as an immediate priority.
“Having been active in the capital project and campaign since its inception, I am committed to leading the planning team over the finish line with a facility that supports our strategic plan and mission,” she said in the release.
Coen joined the Boys & Girls Club in 2019 as director of development and was promoted to chief advancement officer in 2024. She brings 30 years of experience in business and philanthropy to the role.
She holds a master’s degree in business administration from Western New England College and a bachelor’s degree in English communications from Salve Regina University. Coen is also a certified fund-raising executive through CFRE International.
“We are excited to have Kelley move into this leadership role,” Board Chair Mary Louise Cavanaugh said in the announcement. “Having seen her work over the past six years, we know that her business acumen, philanthropic expertise and genuine care for Newport County kids and teens will result in nothing less than success for the Club and community.”
A committee of seven stakeholders and Boys & Girls Clubs of America conducted a nationwide search and interviewing process for the position.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County has provided programming and services to more than 2,000 youths annually for more than 69 years. The organization is part of a nationwide network of more than 5,000 Boys & Girls Clubs.
The club’s mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need help most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.