"Steve Coen is an outstanding leader and we are honored to have him as the Foundation's next president and CEO," said Ron Holt, chair of the Kansas Health Foundation Board of Directors. "His background and experience make him the perfect person to lead the Foundation into the future."

Coen has long been an advocate for Kansas communities, and during his time at the Foundation he has been instrumental in the development of many major initiatives, including the Kansas Health Foundation Fellows program, the Kansas Community Leadership Initiative and the GROW Community Foundation program.

"It has been an honor to work at the Foundation for more than 20 years, and I'm humbled by the faith the board is placing in me to lead the organization," Coen said. "But more than anything else, I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Kansas. In many cases it's the leaders, advocates and volunteers in communities across the state that make the greatest impact, and it will be imperative for the Foundation to continue working to support these efforts."

Coen said keys to the Foundation's success will include listening to the needs and ideas of Kansans, partnering with the many credible and active organizations throughout the state on key projects, and conducting business in an open and transparent manner.

A native of St. John, Kan., Coen graduated from Emporia State University and later earned a law degree at Washburn University. His professional experience includes working for former Kansas senator Bob Dole, both in Kansas and in Washington, D.C. During his work for Sen. Dole, Coen served in a variety of capacities, including state director and legislative assistant.

He has been honored many times for his work, including receiving the 2002 21st Century Community Champions Award, presented to those whose work has made a significant contribution to strengthening families. He was also honored by the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance for his role in developing the Physical Dimensions program, a course that provides high school students with the knowledge and skills needed to engage in a physically-active, healthy lifestyle. To view Coen's complete bio, click here.

The board has been actively searching for a new president and CEO since May and has worked with EFL Associates of Overland Park, Kan., to conduct the national search. During the search process, more than 100 applications from across the nation were received, and the board met personally with a select group of finalists.

"We had some outstanding applicants with tremendous credentials," Holt said. "But, we felt there was no one more deserving-or qualified-for this position than Steve. He is a Kansan through and through, and his passion for this state is unmatched."

In addition to his professional experiences, Coen is a past member of the board of directors of the Kansas Humanities Council, has served as president of the board of directors for the Wichita River Festival and currently serves as chair of the Governor's Council on Fitness. He is also chair of the Chapel Hill Fellowship United Methodist Church Council.

Holt said that once Coen officially takes over the position, the board will work directly with staff to more clearly define the Foundation's direction and strategies. Coen assumes the role of president and CEO on Sept. 15.

About the Kansas Health Foundation: The Kansas Health Foundation is a private philanthropy dedicated to improving the health of all Kansans. Based in Wichita, the Foundation allocates approximately $26 million annually in four major funding categories: public health, policy, leadership and children's health. For more information about the Kansas Health Foundation, visit www.kansashealth.org.