NEWARK, OHIO (April 28, 2026) — American Red Cross Central & Southern Ohio Regional Executive Director Tonya Craft announced the appointment of Tim Callahan as Executive Director of the East Central Ohio Chapter, effective May 23, 2026. Callahan succeeds longtime Executive Director Rod Cook, who is retiring after 23 years of dedicated service with the American Red Cross.

Callahan, originally from New Concord, Ohio, and now a resident of the Newark area, is a veteran Red Crosser whose service began shortly after the September 11 attacks, when he volunteered in the East Central Ohio community. He later joined the organization’s paid staff and has served in leadership roles for more than a decade. Callahan currently holds the position of Regional Senior Community Disaster Program Manager for Central & Southern Ohio.

“Having Tim lead the chapter where his Red Cross journey began provides valuable continuity for the communities we serve,” said Tonya Craft, Regional Executive Director. “He is passionate about building strong teams, connecting people to meaningful service, and leading with a hands‑on, boots‑on‑the‑ground approach. His deep knowledge of the region and the organization will ensure a smooth transition and the continued delivery of vital Red Cross services across East Central Ohio.”

Callahan brings more than two decades of leadership experience across the nonprofit and business sectors, including work as a small business owner and previous leadership roles with the American Cancer Society. He has also served with Big Brothers Big Sisters, further demonstrating his long‑standing commitment to strengthening communities and supporting those in need.

“I’m honored to step into this role and continue serving the communities that first inspired me to volunteer with the Red Cross,” said Callahan. “The East Central Ohio Chapter is supported by an incredible network of volunteers, donors, and partners, and I look forward to working alongside them to ensure we remain ready to help people during their most vulnerable moments.”

The American Red Cross East Central Ohio Chapter serves residents in Morgan, Noble, Guernsey, Coshocton, Muskingum, Perry, Licking, Knox, Richland, Morrow, Crawford, and Marion counties.

To schedule an interview with Tim Callahan, contact Marita Salkowski at 513‑477‑1694.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports 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 perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/newarkoh or join us on Facebook and X at @ARCcsor or on LinkedIn ARC Central and Southern Ohio