The board of directors of the Renton-based nonprofit King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC) announced the appointment of Kate Krug to chief executive officer on Oct. 24, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for the organization.

Former KCSARC chief executive officer Mary Ellen Stone announced her retirement last year after 44 years as CEO, and will remain as strategic advisor to the organization through the end of 2023, according to the organization.

“We’re delighted to welcome Kate after an intense nationwide search,” said Marilyn Sherron, KCSARC board president. “She’s a proven leader with a strong vision for the future. Kate stood out from among many applicants for her strong experience in strategic fundraising in a challenging environment, and for program development grounded in principles of equity and inclusivity. That combination of skills and vision are needed to lead KCSARC forward at this moment in our history and to seize opportunities ahead.”

The organization said that Krug joins KCSARC at a time when many public resources – from the federal Victims of Crime Act to county funding – are facing severe shortfalls.

“Every year, KCSARC supports 5,000 survivors and their families, helping them find their own resilience to recover, and plays a critical role in supporting our community,” said Kate Krug, the new CEO for KCSARC. “The commitment and excellence of the staff, leadership and board at KCSARC are inspirational, and I am humbled to join their efforts to give power and voice to victims of sexual assault, their families and communities.”

Krug’s background includes 18 years of nonprofit human services experience developing, implementing and expanding programming for underserved and underrepresented communities.

In her most recent role as executive vice president at New York City-based Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW), she supported the organization’s programmatic and fundraising goals. According to KCSARC, Krug was instrumental in the creation of many innovative programs, such as a nontraditional childcare pilot, and establishing NEW as a national model for advancing female-identifying and nonbinary individuals in the building and construction trades.

Prior to NEW, Krug led fundraising at several nonprofits that serve victims of domestic violence, people experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable communities. This includes several years at New York’s Safe Horizon, recognized as the nation’s leading victim assistance organization. In addition, Krug served as board vice chair of the New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

“I am confident in the board’s decision to bring Kate aboard as KCSARC’s new CEO and appreciate the careful, deliberate approach they took to finding just the right person,” said Mary Ellen Stone, KCSARC strategic advisor and former CEO. “I know Kate shares a deep personal commitment to working with our staff, board and partners to prioritize continuity of service for survivors and their families, and a vision for eradicating sexual assault from our communities.”