November 5, 2026
ST. LOUIS — Keisha Lee will step down as president and CEO of Annie Malone Children & Family Services at the end of the year, concluding an 11-year association with the St. Louis nonprofit and preparing to move into strategic consulting.
Lee’s final day is scheduled for December 31, 2026. In a statement announcing her departure, she said she plans to draw on her executive experience to help other organizations improve operations, develop leaders, achieve sustainable growth and expand their community impact.
“After 11 years of service, I am incredibly proud of the transformation, growth, and lasting impact achieved under my leadership,” Lee said. “As I prepare for this next chapter, I look forward to sharing the knowledge, experience, and relationships I’ve developed to help other organizations and leaders overcome challenges, strengthen their foundations, and reach their full potential. My commitment to making a difference isn’t ending—it’s expanding.”
Lee previously served on Annie Malone’s board of directors and in organizational leadership before becoming president and CEO in 2021. The statement said she informed the board in August of her decision, providing advance notice for succession planning and leadership continuity.
Organizational growth and community advocacy
During Lee’s tenure, the organization pursued modernization, expanded partnerships and developed programming focused on children and families, according to the leadership transition announcement.
Among the accomplishments highlighted in the announcement were financial audits without findings and organizational accreditation extending through 2030. The statement also credited Lee with strengthening relationships involving corporate leaders, elected officials, government agencies, health care organizations and philanthropic partners.
Her advocacy included service on a statewide child welfare board and efforts to increase access to children’s immunizations, school physicals and dental services in underserved communities.
Lee also championed extended-day summer programs, youth workforce development, economic mobility initiatives and safe community events designed to support working families.
Following the May 2025 St. Louis tornado, the organization redirected resources toward affected families and helped mobilize two semi-truckloads of essential supplies, according to the announcement.
“I have always believed leadership requires more than making decisions from behind a desk,” Lee said. “It means showing up, building relationships, and making sure the people you serve have access to opportunities and resources that can change their lives.”
Board recognizes Lee’s service
In a statement, Annie Malone’s board of directors thanked Lee for her years of service and her work advancing the nonprofit’s mission.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our sincere appreciation to Keisha Lee for her years of dedicated service and executive leadership,” the board said. “Her commitment to strengthening Annie Malone’s operations, expanding community partnerships, and advancing our mission has made a meaningful impact. We thank her for her service and wish her continued success in her next chapter.”
The announcement did not identify a successor. Lee’s departure creates a leadership transition for an organization that has long served St. Louis-area children and families.
A new chapter
Lee emphasized that leaving her position does not mean leaving behind the community-centered work that shaped her career. She plans to help other organizations and leaders strengthen their foundations through strategic consulting.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished. I led with purpose, made difficult decisions, built meaningful partnerships, and created opportunities that will continue changing lives long after my departure,” Lee said.
From VOTP News STL: We love you, Keisha. Thank you for your service to St. Louis children and families.
