Becky Gaskin named chapter executive director, David Olejarz as regional communications director.
DETROIT (July 14, 2022) – The American Red Cross has announced key appointments to its leadership team in the Michigan Region. Becky Gaskin was named executive director of the East Central Bay Chapter and David Olejarz was named regional communications director.
Gaskin and Olejarz bring extensive experience to their roles for the Red Cross, which serves more than 9 million people across Michigan. The Michigan Region is headquartered in Detroit.
“We are pleased to welcome Becky and David to our Red Cross team,” said Mary Lynn Foster, regional chief executive officer. “Both share an enthusiasm for helping others and bring exceptional backgrounds in their areas of expertise that will help us advance the mission and values of the Red Cross.”
As executive director, Gaskin serves as the community liaison for the East Central Bay Chapter, which is based in Flint and covers 10 surrounding counties. The chapter, one of six Red Cross Chapters across Michigan, also has a blood and platelet collection center in Flint. Gaskin also provides support to the Red Cross’ vast network of services in the chapter including disaster, blood, training and volunteer services and helping members of the military, veterans and their family members.
She joins the Red Cross from the Genesee Intermediate School District where she served as Coordinator of its Great Start Collaborative. Prior to that, Gaskin was executive director of the Hagerman Foundation in Flint from 2015-2020 and directed a strategic philanthropic campaign. Gaskin earned a master’s degree in Public Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Business and Corporate Communications, both from the University of Michigan-Flint.
In his role, Olejarz oversees communications and media relations for the Michigan Region and its humanitarian services. He joins the Red Cross after a 25-year career at the Detroit-based Henry Ford Health, where he served as manager of Media Relations for the past 15 years. Olejarz is a seasoned communications professional and effective storyteller, with an extensive background in working with local and national media, crisis management, strategic communications and community outreach. He managed the media relations team throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
A graduate of Oakland University in Rochester, Olejarz is the recipient of several communications awards. He is based at the region’s headquarters in Detroit.
MEDIA CONTACT: Alicia Dorr | alicia.dorr@redcross.org | 616-306-8040
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information please visit redcross.org/michigan or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @MIRedCross.