Free Spirit Media has announced the appointment of Anedra Kerr as interim executive director.
The statement today from Board Chairman, Stacey Bolton, that began by thanking everyone for their input during the search efforts, announced that the interim position was appointed to Anedra Kerr.
Andrea will serve as the lead staff-member for the organization and point person for the board.
ALSO READ: Free Spirit Exec Director Jeff McCarter placed on leave
The appointment followed the sudden removal of founder Jeff McCarter when on June 22, 2020 a group of former employees and alumni sent a petition to the Board of Directors of Free Spirit Media, requesting a full investigation of McCarter. While the letter emphasized that this it was not an attack on Free Spirit Media, it did cite allegations of “racism, sexism, misogyny, adultism and other forms of discrimination” as well as misuse of foundation funds on McCarter’s part.
Jeff McCarter remains on leave as the investigation is ongoing.
Announcement from Stacy Bolton, Chairman, Free Spirit Board of Directors:
July 21, 2020
Dear Free Spirit Community,
I’m pleased to announce the board has identified an interim executive director for Free Spirit Media. Your input was invaluable in our search efforts. Thank you.
Please welcome Anedra Kerr. Anedra joins us with experience from Francis W. Parker School – where she served as Chief Advancement Officer and provided oversight of development, communications and admissions, managed a large team, and executed philanthropic efforts. She has also led executive-level programming and fundraising positions with After School Matters, Advocate Health Care and Junior Achievement. She’s a life-long Chicagoan and mother of two.
Anedra will serve as the lead staff-member for the organization and point person for the board. We are confident Anedra will provide youth-centered staff and partner support and look forward to having you get to know her. Jeff McCarter remains on leave as our investigation is ongoing, and we will continue to provide you with updates, as we have them.
Sincerely,
Stacey Bolton
Chairman
Free Spirit Media Board of Directors
