NEW YORK (August 11, 2015)—The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) today announced that its President & CEO, Carl R. Augusto, will retire in the spring of 2016 after 25 years of service to AFB. Augusto, a longtime champion of people with disabilities and a preeminent leader in the field of blindness, joined the organization in 1991. Under his leadership, AFB has made significant strides in leveling the playing field for people with vision loss, especially in the areas of public policy, education, technology, aging and employment.

AFB's Board of Trustees has established a search committee and retained Pangburn Partners, LLC, a leader in nonprofit executive search to identify a successor for Mr. Augusto. Mr. Augusto plans to remain at AFB until a successor is in place to ensure a smooth transition.

"Carl Augusto is one of my personal heroes," said Larry B. Kimbler, chair of the AFB Board of Trustees. "He is a remarkable leader and collaborator who has dedicated his life to making the world a better place for people with vision loss, their families, and the professionals who work with them. We are incredibly grateful for his outstanding service."

"This has been my dream job from beginning to end," said Mr. Augusto. "AFB is a very special place with a talented and committed staff and board. I feel fortunate and honored to have spent my career doing what I love and working alongside colleagues who share my passion to ensure people with vision loss have an equal shot at achieving their dreams."

A change agent known for his collaborative leadership, Mr. Augusto has forged numerous strategic partnerships and alliances within the vision loss community and beyond to address critical issues and expand opportunities for people with vision loss. This includes broadening AFB's scope to influence corporate America to make its products and services accessible.

Augusto has led AFB's move into the digital era. He significantly bolstered its technology program and created and expanded the organization's award-winning web programs and services, increasing access to AFB's information and services. He oversaw the establishment and growth of AFB TECH, the Technology and Employment Center at Huntington (West Virginia), and the AFB Center on Vision Loss in Dallas. In addition, he has strengthened AFB's leadership role and spearheaded efforts to help AFB attain greater financial stability by professionalizing its fundraising program and exercising rigorous fiscal discipline.

Mr. Augusto is the fifth chief executive of the American Foundation for the Blind since its founding in 1921.
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The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a national nonprofit that expands possibilities for people with vision loss. AFB's priorities include broadening access to technology; elevating the quality of information and tools for the professionals who serve people with vision loss; and promoting independent and healthy living for people with vision loss by providing them and their families with relevant and timely resources. Headquartered in New York, AFB is proud to house the Helen Keller Archives and honor the more than 40 years that Helen Keller worked tirelessly with AFB.

Contact:
Adrianna Montague-Devaud
Chief Communications & Marketing Officer
American Foundation for the Blind
amontague@afb.net
212-502-7615