Experienced Non-Profit Executive Held Leadership Roles at United Way and American Red Cross

Washington, D.C. (May 6, 2019) – UsAgainstAlzheimer’s today named Russ Paulsen, a seasoned non-profit executive with decades of experience leading mission-driven campaigns for several of the nation’s preeminent nonprofit organizations, as its new chief operating officer.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Russ to the UsAgainstAlzheimer’s team. His extensive experience leading non-profits and his demonstrated history of success tackling big societal challenges will be critical to advancing our mission,” said George Vradenburg, chairman and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s. “In the 21st century, we are faced with no greater societal challenge than the one posed by Alzheimer’s. Russ’s passion and wealth of knowledge will be invaluable as we continue to accelerate toward a cure and pathways to prevention for this disease.”

Paulsen spent nearly two decades in leadership positions at the American Red Cross, leading long-term recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina and launching the organization’s nationwide campaign to reduce death and injuries from home fires. Following his Red Cross service, Paulsen served as a vice president at United Way, heading the organization’s 2-1-1 network where he led the rollout of a national texting platform to provide services to millions across the country. Paulsen most recently was a senior advisor to the Institute for Sustainable Development, providing high-level strategy for the organization’s relaunch.

Paulsen is also an experienced development professional who has led multi-million-dollar fundraising efforts in support of organizational capacity-building efforts. He served as a spokesperson and public face for United Way and the Red Cross, where he was frequently quoted in prominent national media including The Atlantic, the New York Times, NBC News, and CBS Radio.

“I have watched relatives and parents of friends fight back every day against Alzheimer’s and know first-hand the far-reaching impact this disease can have on individuals and families,” Paulsen said. “I’m honored to join UsAgainstAlzheimer’s in this fight and am confident that, together, we can accelerate toward a cure for our nation’s defining public health crisis.”

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