Renée Hendley

Renée Hendley brings more than three decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, international development, and evidence-based program management to her work with Iona. Throughout her career—including 14 years as Associate Director and Senior Research Scientist of NORC’s International Programs, 5 years as Senior Associate at the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, and 15 years as International Programs Manager at the Urban Institute—Ms. Hendley has built a strong reputation for collaborating with diverse stakeholders to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable populations.

She has managed complex projects funded by USAID, MCC, U.S. Department of State, World Bank, foundations, and donor governments, providing technical, financial, contractual, and strategic guidance. Her work has supported communities across the U.S. and in countries throughout Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union, and Central Asia.

Ms. Hendley’s expertise includes financial and contractual management of nonprofit organizations, as well as survey design, data collection, and evaluation methodologies that informed policies affecting civic participation, youth education, access to essential services, and protection of at-risk populations. She has trained local researchers worldwide, emphasizing inclusion, dignity, and the value of each participant’s story—principles that align closely with Iona’s commitment to respecting and uplifting older adults.

Now an Iona board member and a volunteer with Iona’s Arts and Wellness program, Ms. Hendley brings her commitment to service, community engagement, and holistic wellbeing to support older adults through creative expression and connection.

She holds an MPA in Public Policy and a BA in Government from the University of Texas at Austin, a Graduate Certificate in Survey Design & Data Analysis from George Washington University, and culinary certificates from the Institute of Culinary Education.