Kevin Ryan, former Covenant House CEO, returns to Collier Youth Services board.

KEVIN RYAN, FORMER COVENANT HOUSE CEO, RETURNS TO COLLIER YOUTH
SERVICES BOARD

Collier Youth Services today announced the return to its Board of Directors of Kevin Ryan, former President and CEO of Covenant House, an international nonprofit providing housing and services to tens of thousands of homeless, abused, and trafficked youth each year.

Ryan’s return comes as Collier Youth Services enters a new phase of program growth and long-term strategic planning to address the increasing mental health, educational, and residential needs of at-risk youth across New Jersey.

Ryan previously served on Collier’s Board from 2008 to 2014, where his leadership was instrumental in expanding therapeutic programming and strengthening community partnerships that support vulnerable children and families.

“Welcoming Kevin back to our board feels deeply personal for all of us at Collier,” said Sr Debbie Drago, Executive Director of Collier Youth Services. “Our mission is rooted in compassion, dignity, and unwavering support for children who have known hardship. Kevin has lived those values his entire life. His heart for vulnerable youth, his energy, and his moral clarity are a blessing to this community, and I am profoundly grateful to welcome him back.”

A renowned child advocate, Ryan has dedicated his career to child welfare reform and protection. In addition to leading Covenant House, his public service includes roles as New Jersey’s first State Child Advocate, Commissioner of Children and Families, and Commissioner of Human Services. He serves by appointment of federal judges across the country, overseeing efforts to improve foster care systems from coast to coast. His work has influenced child welfare policy and practice worldwide, earning national recognition and inspiring generations of advocates committed to protecting vulnerable youth. He served as a Wasserstein Fellow at Harvard Law School, a Skadden Fellow, and was appointed by President Barack Obama to the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships. He holds degrees from The Catholic University of America, Georgetown University Law Center (J.D.), and New York University School of Law (LL.M.).“

Collier’s commitment to providing safety, education, and healing for New Jersey’s children is critically important,” said Ryan. “I am honored to rejoin the Board and can’t wait to contribute to the organization’s continued growth and impact.” Robert Malone, President of Collier’s Board of Directors, added, “Kevin’s return comes at a pivotal time for Collier, as we continue planning for our upcoming centennial anniversary and capital campaign taking place in 2027. His experience and contribution will be a welcome addition to our board.”

Collier Youth Services (Collier) is a CARF-accredited non-profit organization founded in 1927, dedicated to supporting at-risk youth; programs include Collier Middle School and High School, Collier Residential Program, Collier Transition Program, and Kateri Day Camp. Collier’s mission is to transform lives through comprehensive educational, therapeutic, residential, and recreational programs that serve the whole person. In an environment of belonging, dignity, and hope, Collier Youth Services meets the unique needs of children, youth, and families, so they can heal, grow, and thrive.

To learn more, to donate, or to inquire about services, visit www.collieryouthservices.org.