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Greetings!
It is with gratitude and genuine confidence that I welcome Clair Good as the next Executive Director of Mennonite Disaster Service U.S. Clair will begin serving on October 1, 2026, and I will remain with MDS through the end of December to support him and help provide a thoughtful and healthy transition.
Clair brings more than four decades of leadership experience across global, intercultural, congregational, and community-based settings. He brings a deep Anabaptist faith, a servant’s heart, practical experience, and a gift for building relationships among people with different backgrounds and perspectives.
When I announced my retirement earlier this year, I did so with mixed emotions. Serving MDS since 2004 has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Together, we have responded to disasters across the United States, its territories, and Canada; strengthened partnerships; expanded our capacity; and helped thousands of families return home. Yet what stands out most is not the growth or the number of homes, bridges, and communities served. It is the faithfulness behind this work—the volunteers, donors, staff, congregations, partners, and friends who believe that responding with Christian love can restore hope.
MDS has never belonged to one leader. Its mission is larger than any one of us, and each generation is entrusted with carrying it forward. Beginning October 1, Clair will be the Executive Director, and my role will be to support him, share what I have learned, and then step aside so he can lead with his own gifts and vision.
I believe Clair is the right leader for this season. I invite the entire MDS family to welcome him and his wife Beth warmly, pray for them, and offer Clair your full support. Thank you for your partnership, encouragement, and friendship. It continues to be an honor to serve alongside you.
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