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Soccer Without Borders (SWB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jennifer Tepper as its new Executive Director. Jennifer brings a wealth of professional and lived experience and a passion for SWB's mission to this role. With more than two decades of experience as a nonprofit executive, business development and fundraising strategist, and board development expert, Jennifer shares a deep commitment to advancing equity and inclusion through soccer. Prior to joining SWB, Jennifer held the role of Executive Director of the D.C. Language Access Coalition, Director of Development at the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, Director of Development and Communications at Trees for the Future, Senior Director of Strategic Development and Partnerships at BoardSource, Vice President of Organizational Development and Leadership at Collaborative Communications Group, and Co-founder and Managing Director at LiveMudita.
“I am excited to now call SWB home,” says Jennifer. “I am ready to ‘leave my shoes at the door’ and bring my most genuine (albeit crooked) smile to every meeting, every training session, and every learning moment. I will also bring my personal experience of growing up as a newcomer to help ensure that SWB continues to build spaces where even the most displaced and marginalized youth can feel seen and heard.”
As Executive Director, Jennifer will lead the planning and execution of Soccer Without Borders’ strategic vision and ensure the overall programmatic, operational, and financial viability of SWB. The appointment will enable Mary Connor, Co-Founder and outgoing Executive Director, to transition to a new role that centers around innovation and the strategic expansion of our mission. Jennifer will leverage her experience to lead SWB forward in collaboration with our talented Executive Leadership team, Founders, Board of Directors, and Program Leadership.
“The Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome Jennifer to SWB,” says SWB Board President Erin Cook. “Jennifer brings the proficiency and expertise to lead SWB through its next chapter. We look forward to partnering with Jennifer on SWB’s strategic vision, continued impact and leadership position.”
Jennifer joins SWB during a period of significant growth and evolution, with expansion within our six Community Hubs, the launch of SWB Assist, and a deepened commitment to sharpening our equity lens.
"In a world where our news feeds are flooded by the harmful actions of those who are not connected to a community and do not feel like they belong anywhere in this world,” Jennifer reflects, “SWB brings another paradigm – a world where diversity is embraced, equity is foundational, and belonging and community are the results.”
Get to know Jennifer even more by reading, A Place to Call Home, a new blog written by SWB’s new Executive Director herself!
About Soccer Without Borders
Soccer Without Borders uses soccer as a vehicle for positive change in the United States and abroad. Soccer Without Borders combines soccer play and instruction with education and community-building activities in a year-round program model that authentically shifts outcomes. Soccer Without Borders’ impact has been recognized by the global FIFA Diversity Award, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Sports Award, and the Wharton School of Business’ Lipman Family Prize. Learn more at www.soccerwithoutborders.org.