Published on September 4, 2026

Upcoming Leadership Transition at IDHA

A Letter from IDHA’s Board

Dear IDHA Community,

We are writing to share that Jacks McNamara has decided to step down from their role as IDHA’s Executive Director, effective September 18, 2026. We are grateful to Jacks for their leadership and care for IDHA, and for their contributions during their time with the organization.

Below is a statement from Jacks regarding their decision:

“I am deeply honored to have served as IDHA’s Executive Director. It has been such a blessing to work alongside our staff, board, partners, and community to support our members and bring our innovative programming to life, from our live training series “Archeologies of Grief” to our vital community events. 

I have admired IDHA’s work for so many years, first as a community member and then as faculty; being part of the staff team behind the scenes has been truly special. At the same time, running a small organization is a heavy lift for any executive director, and this role has not turned out to be the right long-term fit for me. I have decided to prioritize my health and seek a role with fewer demands.

Over the last month I have been supporting a smooth transition and ensuring that the board, interim leadership, and key partners have the information they need as IDHA plans its next chapter. I am deeply grateful for your support of IDHA throughout my time as Executive Director. IDHA’s brilliance and network continue to inspire me, and while I will miss having a central organizing role in this project, I am excited to remain part of the community into the future.”

The Board remains deeply committed to IDHA's mission and community as we oversee this transition, including actively finalizing interim leadership support.

In the coming months, we will create space for thoughtful planning and collective visioning around IDHA's next chapter. We're so grateful for your continued commitment to IDHA, and will share further updates as plans take shape.

Sincerely,

The IDHA Board of Directors