FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sarah Diina, 400-7249(c), sdiina@ConnectLife.org
ConnectLife Announces Retirement of President Mark Simon
Mark Simon, President of ConnectLife, will retire at the end of 2024 after a remarkable 27-year career with the organization. His tenure has been marked by significant contributions to the growth and success of the organ procurement organization and community blood bank.
Simon shared, "After 27 years of dedicated leadership and commitment, it is with a deep sense of pride and gratitude that I announce my retirement. It has been a privilege to witness ConnectLife's growth and success, and I am honored to have worked alongside such passionate and talented individuals. While I am excited for the next chapter, I am confident in the bright future ahead for ConnectLife as we continue to serve our donor families, blood donors, and community partners."
Simon joined ConnectLife (formerly Unyts) in April 1997, and during his tenure, he achieved many milestones, including:
Expanding programs and services for donor families
Securing 10 HRSA grants, totaling $5.5 million, to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation
Enhancing research and laboratory services
Establishing the Community Blood Service, which now supplies blood products to over 70% of hospitals in Western New York, saving millions annually
Leading the rebranding of Unyts to ConnectLife
Expanding services to Central New York and the Capital Region through strategic partnerships
Under Simon’s leadership, ConnectLife saw tremendous growth, including an increase in budget from $2 million to $40 million and a rise in staff from 20 to over 220 employees.
Kevin Gramlich to Expand Role as President & CEO
Effective January 1, 2025, Kevin Gramlich will assume the role of President & CEO of ConnectLife. Gramlich, who has nearly 30 years of experience with the organization, will oversee all operations of the nonprofit, guiding it toward long-term growth and success while ensuring alignment with its mission.
"Kevin brings a wealth of experience and a visionary outlook that will elevate ConnectLife to new heights," said Simon. "I look forward to seeing the direction he will take the organization and the donation industry in, and I am confident that his leadership will continue to foster the success of our talented team."
A registered nurse, Gramlich has served in various roles at ConnectLife, including Clinical Donation Coordinator, Senior VP of Clinical Services, and Chief Operations Officer, before becoming CEO. He is a resident of Williamsville, New York.
Download this press release below.
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ConnectLife helps people help others. As a federally designated not-for-profit organ procurement organization and community blood bank, we save and enhance lives through organ, eye, tissue and blood donations.