The Amarillo Area Foundation (AAF) is under new leadership following the conclusion of a months-long search for its next president and CEO.
Keralee Clay has been officially named president and CEO of the foundation after serving as interim since November of last year. Clay steps into the role following the death of former president and CEO Clay Stribling, who led the organization until his passing in 2023.
In an interview, Clay expressed both enthusiasm and humility about her new position.
“Very excited, honestly and very humbled. It’s a big job, it’s a lot of responsibility but I’m excited about it,” Clay said. “I think as interim it’s about keeping the wheels on the bus and cleaning up a few things and getting ready for the next CEO to make sure they’re in a place to succeed. Now that it’s formal and official I can kind of start moving forward a little and trying new things.”
Clay has been with the Amarillo Area Foundation since 2016 and has served in multiple leadership capacities during her tenure. The foundation, which serves as the community foundation for the Texas Panhandle, provides grants, scholarships, and philanthropic support to strengthen communities across the region.
Her appointment marks a new chapter for the organization as it continues to focus on community development, donor engagement, and long-term sustainability in the wake of its leadership transition.
