Houstoun, a member of the Foundation's Board of Directors since January 2004, is perhaps best known for her distinguished career in the public sector.  She has worked at every level of government, serving as Pennsylvania's Secretary of Public Welfare during the Ridge Administration, Treasurer of the State of New Jersey under Governor Kean, chief financial officer of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) and in a number of senior positions with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Houstoun is currently the regional president of AmeriChoice, where she is responsible for the healthcare organization's Pennsylvania and Maryland operations. Before joining AmeriChoice, Houstoun was a senior visiting scholar at the University of Pennsylvania. 

“I consider Kathy a friend and colleague and while this is a very sad time, I am honored to have the opportunity to build upon her accomplishments and the Foundation's vision of progress for our region,” Houstoun said.  She continued, “I'm excited about leading this great organization because nearly everything I've done in my career thus far – working on urban and environmental issues, helping families, strengthening cultural institutions – is closely linked to the Foundation's mission of improving the quality of life in Greater Philadelphia.”

Houstoun has had a diverse range of experiences related to the Foundation's work, including the development of the State Planning Commission in New Jersey, helping to launch the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, and service on the boards of Philadelphia's Center City District, the New Jersey State Aquarium, the New Jersey Network and the Housing Finance Agencies of both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.  Houstoun has published articles on growth management, gubernatorial leadership, housing and linkages between business districts and transportation.

David Haas, chair of the Foundation's board said, “Feather is a seasoned leader capable of building upon Kathy's remarkable achievements.  Her steady leadership, broad experience and knowledge of our region will be outstanding assets as the Foundation continues to chart a course of progress for Greater Philadelphia.” 

In December, the Foundation announced that Engebretson would step down as president due to her battle with advanced cancer.  Haas noted, “The sadness of losing Kathy's leadership has made this a very difficult time for everyone associated with the Foundation, but we are fortunate that she will continue working with us as a senior advisor as long as her health permits.  It is impossible to overstate the admiration that all of us have for Kathy's energy, spirit and devotion to the Foundation.”

Media inquiries can be directed to Brent Thompson at (215) 988 1830.