The Alzheimer’s Association is proud to announce the appointment of its new executive director for the Western New York Chapter, Jill Horner. A proven executive and compelling communicator, Horner brings her infectious energy and innovative thought leadership to execute a vision of “a world without Alzheimer’s.”
Horner will direct the organization’s strategy implementation across the chapter’s eight-county service region, by working with the national Alzheimer’s Association, community and state leaders, local corporations, families, and foundations to fight the disease. Programs and services are offered in various locations in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming counties.
“The association is delighted to welcome Jill. We look forward to benefiting from her perspective and strategic leadership,” said Christopher Smith, Alzheimer’s Association NYS regional director. “In Jill, we found a leader who we are confident will not only continue to advance the forward progress of the organization on behalf of Western New York families through education, research and fundraising initiatives, but also effectively champion our advocacy efforts with state and community leaders.”
Prior to her appointment, Horner delivered outstanding results as chief operating officer for 17 years at Joe Slade White & Co., where she oversaw the day to day operations for the national political advertising agency. These political races included high profile politicians, policy and ballot initiatives, corporations, and non-profits across the country. Her team at JSW was one of the most respected groups of people in the nation, acclaimed for their work with advertising strategies and winning several annual awards.
Horner is also a highly experienced executive leader with a successful track record of directing nonprofits in community outreach, fundraising, marketing, budget operations, and productivity improvement. Before joining JSW, Horner held director of development positions at Daemen College and People Inc., where she creatively turned around community awareness and significantly increased annual and capital funding for both nonprofit organizations.
“I am honored to lead such an important and vital cause alongside my passionate colleagues, teams, families and volunteers,” Horner said. “Together we can and will continue to make a difference towards a world without Alzheimer’s.”
Horner earned a master's degree in Higher Education, Advancement/Development from Ohio University, and a Bachelor of Science in Education, cum laude, also from Ohio University. She and her husband, Rich, are raising their two children in Clarence.
