PAHEF at Work 

News and Events

Washington, DC, December 31, 2007—The board of trustees of the Pan American Health and Education Foundation welcome Mr. Edward Kadunc as the new executive director. He comes to the foundation with 30 years of experience in international development, largely in Latin America. He follows Ms. Jess Gersky who retired at the end of 2007.

Most recently, Mr. Kadunc served as the mission director in Mexico for the US Agency for International Development. He designed and implemented an HIV/AIDS Stigma Reduction in the Work Place program with leading US companies in Mexico and the Mexican Federal Secretary of Health. Among other projects, Mr. Kadunc also implemented a university partnership program involving over 100 Mexican and US universities.

Also he headed up USAID missions in Brazil, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and Bosnia Herzegovina. Other countries where Mr. Kadunc served with distinction include Bolivia, Jamaica, Nicaragua, and Peru. Important areas in which he has demonstrated experience and leadership are public health and population, small business development, the environment, and economic reform. 

PAHEF board chair, Dr. Malden Nesheim, says, “Mr. Kadunc has been recognized for his leadership through various awards, such as the Presidential Meritorious Honor Award. This coveted award honors high-performing professionals who are strong, effective leaders that embody integrity, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. We are excited to have him on board.” Mr. Kadunc responds, “I am happy to accept this opportunity to lead the foundation. I looking forward to implementing the mandate for continuity and strengthening of directions already taken."

To learn more about Mr. Kadunc, please click here.