CEDARS Welcomes Anna Wishart as President

CEDARS is pleased to welcome Anna Wishart as President, bringing an accomplished leader, dedicated community advocate, and former CEDARS foster parent to the organization's senior leadership team. 

Wishart brings nearly two decades of leadership experience spanning the business, government, and nonprofit sectors. Throughout her career, she has built partnerships, advanced public policy, and championed initiatives that strengthen communities and create opportunities for young people. 

Her connection to CEDARS is both professional and personal. 

"As a former CEDARS foster parent, Anna understands our mission in a deeply personal way," said Jim Blue, Chief Executive Officer of CEDARS. "She has seen firsthand the difference that caring adults and strong support systems can make in the life of a child. Combined with her exceptional leadership experience and strong relationships across Nebraska, she will be a tremendous asset to our organization and the families we serve." 

Throughout her career, Wishart has focused on strengthening the systems and partnerships that help children and families thrive. She most recently served as Chief Development Officer at Monolith and previously represented District 27 in the Nebraska Legislature for eight years, including four years as Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee. Earlier in her career, she helped develop statewide partnerships supporting afterschool and summer learning opportunities for Nebraska youth through the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. 

During her legislative service, Wishart championed policies and investments that supported behavioral health services, foster youth, and community-based programs. She also advocated for funding for CEDARS Carriage House, which serves pregnant and parenting youth experiencing homelessness. 

"I am honored to join CEDARS and become part of an organization that has made such a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families for generations," said Wishart. "I look forward to learning from the talented people who make this work possible every day and helping build on the strong foundation that already exists." 

As President, Wishart will partner with Blue and the CEDARS leadership team to strengthen community partnerships, support organizational growth, and expand opportunities for children and families across Nebraska. 

"CEDARS has always been about helping children find safety, stability, and the support they need to succeed," said Blue. "I'm excited to welcome Anna to our team and look forward to the difference we can make together for the kids and families we serve."