The Amarillo Area Foundation (AAF) recently unveiled a significant leadership transition, with President and CEO Clay Stribling stepping down from his executive role and transitioning to the position of Executive Advisor. Karalee Clay, who has been with the organization for eight years and most recently served as Senior Vice President, will take over as Interim President and CEO.
This leadership change marks a new chapter for the Foundation, which has played a pivotal role in supporting the Texas Panhandle community for nearly four decades. Under Stribling’s guidance, the AAF has experienced transformative growth and success, including doubling its endowment and raising millions to support nonprofit organizations in the region.
Clay Stribling’s Legacy of Leadership
Stribling, who joined the Amarillo Area Foundation in 2011, has overseen significant achievements during his tenure, including the Foundation’s financial growth and its expanded influence across the 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle. One of his most notable accomplishments is his leadership of The Panhandle Gives campaign, a philanthropic effort that has raised more than $30 million since its inception. The funds have supported over 600 nonprofit organizations, addressing a wide range of needs in the region.
Reflecting on his time with the Foundation, Stribling expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “It has been an honor to serve this tremendous organization for the past 13 years,” Stribling said. “The generosity of Texas Panhandle residents is unmatched, and I am grateful to have witnessed that first-hand. Under Karalee’s leadership, I am confident that the talented and committed AAF staff and boards will carry on our work with integrity and dedication.”
Stribling’s decision to step down as President and CEO follows a period of sustained success for the Foundation. During his leadership, AAF expanded its impact on education, healthcare, and economic development across the region, and its endowment grew significantly, providing greater financial resources for future initiatives.
Karalee Clay’s New Role and Vision for the Future
Karalee Clay, the new Interim President and CEO, is no stranger to the Amarillo Area Foundation’s mission. She has been a key leader within the organization for the past eight years, driving initiatives that have expanded the Foundation’s influence and strengthened its operations. As Senior Vice President, Clay was instrumental in launching Panhandle Connected, an initiative designed to bridge the digital divide in rural areas, improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities across the region.
In her new role, Clay is committed to continuing the Foundation’s work of improving the quality of life for residents of the Texas Panhandle. “I am honored to build on the work Clay has championed over the years,” Clay said. “With the support of our talented team and our incredible base of supporters, the Amarillo Area Foundation will continue to create lasting impact in the lives of people across the Texas Panhandle.”
Clay’s leadership is widely recognized for its innovative approach and focus on expanding community outreach. In addition to her work with Panhandle Connected, she has played a crucial role in strengthening the Foundation’s operational capacity and fostering partnerships across sectors to address the region’s most pressing needs.
Board’s Confidence in Future Leadership
David Prescott, Chair of the Amarillo Area Foundation Board, expressed the board’s full support for both Stribling’s transition to Executive Advisor and Clay’s new role as Interim President and CEO. Prescott praised Stribling’s leadership and his lasting contributions to the Foundation’s success.
“The Foundation’s board members are confident the organization is on firm footing for the future,” Prescott said. “Karalee Clay will continue to advance the Foundation’s mission and vision. Her passion and innovative approach will continue to drive positive change for the more than 400,000 people we serve in the Texas Panhandle.”
With a strong leadership team and a clear vision for the future, the Amarillo Area Foundation is poised to continue its critical work in the region, ensuring that the Foundation remains a key resource for nonprofits and residents across the Texas Panhandle.
About the Amarillo Area Foundation
Founded in 1976, the Amarillo Area Foundation works to enhance the quality of life in the Texas Panhandle by supporting nonprofits and fostering community development. With a growing endowment, the Foundation plays an integral role in addressing key issues such as education, healthcare, and economic development. Through its various initiatives and donor-driven programs, the AAF aims to create lasting positive change for the people of the region.
.jpeg)
