Area Red Cross names new executive director

The American Red Cross of Southeast Missouri announced Friday its new executive director.

Cheryl Klueppel was named to the post following a three-and-a-half-month nationwide search, according to a news release from the American Red Cross.

She will start May 8. Klueppel succeeds Mary Burton, who led the chapter for 15 years before becoming the director of the Southeast Missouri Hospital Foundation.

Klueppel has served for more than 10 years at not-for-profit organizations in Southeast Missouri, such as the Alzheimer's Association, the release stated.

A Benton, Mo. native, Klueppel lives in Cape Girardeau and currently works as the account manager for the Red Cross' Blood Services Donor Recruitment.

"We feel Cheryl will bring a great deal of experience to an already successful organization," chairman of the board Clint Karnes said in the release.

Klueppel said she was excited to head the chapter and become a part of its tradition.

"My priority is to continue the great work that this organization does on a daily basis," she said, adding she felt her knowledge of the area and previous not-for-profit experience would be assets in her new role.

Klueppel graduated from Murrary State University with a bachelor's degree in social work, and from St. Louis University with a master's degree in social work, according to the release.

In addition to the Red Cross, Klueppel is also involved in the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Community Caring Council, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

kmorrison@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 127