08 Jan RMHC CTX Welcomes Thomas Kim as New CEO

AUSTIN, TEXAS—January 9, 2024. On Monday, Thomas Kim took over as CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Central Texas (RMHC® CTX), the local nonprofit dedicated to creating, finding, and supporting programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and families. 

Kim replaces Carolyn Schwarz, who stepped down as leader of RMHC CTX in August as she transitioned to a role with Ronald McDonald House Charities Global. Derrick Lesnau has served as interim CEO since then; Lesnau will return to his role as chief operating officer. 

“Thomas is an inspiring, transformative leader who understands the importance and impact of family-centered care within the pediatric medical landscape,” said Wendolyn Washington, president of the RMHC CTX board of directors. “He’s a strategic thinker and has a true passion for operational excellence and community building. We knew he was the right fit to continue to grow RMHC CTX as we strive to meet the ongoing demand for our services.”

With over 30 years of diverse leadership experience, Kim brings a unique blend of nonprofit, government, military, and for-profit expertise to RMHC CTX. Most recently, he was the President and CEO of Community Action Organization (Erie County, NY), spearheading a rebranding campaign, organizational development, and achieving financial growth. Kim’s expertise in corporate re-engineering, leadership, executive coaching, and finance will be invaluable to RMHC CTX’s exciting new chapter. Kim’s prior roles spanned major cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, showcasing his adaptability and broad exposure. A decorated combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and New Dawn, Kim’s dedication extends beyond work as he serves on several nonprofit boards, positively impacting the lives of children around the globe.

“I am honored and humbled to join Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas as its next CEO during this pivotal time in the organization’s history,” said Kim. “The crucial role RMHC CTX plays in keeping families together during their child’s medical treatment resonates deeply with me, personally and professionally. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to guide the organization forward and continue to serve families who are walking through a pediatric medical crisis.”

Under the leadership of outgoing CEO Carolyn Schwarz, who served in the position for over 10 years, RMHC CTX increased the number of families it served by expanding its programs into the Bryan-College Station area and opening four additional Ronald McDonald Family Room programs inside Austin and Bryan-College Station hospitals. The 30-bedroom Ronald McDonald House in Austin is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing families with free lodging, volunteer-prepared meals, laundry services, fitness center,  and other support services. 

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About Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas (RMHC CTX) works to improve the health and well-being of children and their families. Through the Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, Happy Wheels Carts and Healing Hearts programs, RMHC CTX provides compassionate care and resources to children and families being served by Central Texas hospitals. RMHC CTX programs offer access to quality health care and enable family-centered care, ensuring families are fully supported and actively involved in their child’s treatment. For more information or to donate or become a volunteer, visit www.rmhc-ctx.org and follow @rmhcctx on social media.

If you are interested in volunteering or supporting RMHC CTX, check out our “Get Involved” page to see the many ways that you can give back.