December 16, 2025
Over the past several months, NNAS has been in a period of leadership transition. During this time, the Board undertook a comprehensive national search to identify NNAS’s next Chief Executive Officer. We are pleased to announce that the search is now complete.
Penni Caron will be joining NNAS as our new CEO. She will begin transitioning into the role effective December 15, 2025.
As a Registered Psychiatric Nurse with 20 years of executive leadership experience in long-term care, mental health, and integrated health systems, Penni brings a strong combination of clinical insight and strategic, system-level expertise. Penni’s operational insight and her human-centered approach will reinforce our shared commitment to a reliable and consistent credential assessment pathway for internationally educated nurses.
We look forward to welcoming Penni and working alongside her as we continue strengthening our operations, supporting internationally educated nurses, and advancing the strategic direction of NNAS.
As Penni assumes her role, Ken Alger will transition back to his responsibilities as Board Chair, providing stability and support during this next chapter of NNAS’s growth. We extend sincere appreciation to Ken Alger, who stepped in as Interim Executive Director and ensured continuity while we undertook a multi-month search for permanent leadership.
Please join us in welcoming Penni Caron as NNAS’s new CEO.
Sincerely,
Cathy McIntyre, Acting Board Chair
Ken Alger, Interim Executive Director/ Transitioning Back to Board Chair