Lynn Grefe’s professional career has centered on issues, advocacy and solutions, using communication tools at every level. She has worked for state government in the criminal justice system; the private sector for a variety of corporate and non-profit clients on legislative and policy issues; moved into the non-profit political arena for women’s reproductive health issues for eight years; and, in 2003 was named Chief Executive Officer of the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA).
In her current position as C.E.O.,Ms. Grefe is charged with growing NEDA to national prominence to address the needs of the 10 million people who suffer from eating disorders and their families in this country. While Grefe is based in New York, the NEDA headquarters are in Seattle, WA. She travels nationwide, serves as the spokesperson of NEDA and is bringing her lifetime of talents in communications, politics, issue advocacy, and corporate and not-for-profit development to the organization.
Earlier in her professional career, Ms. Grefe was dedicated to the issue of juvenile offenders and was part of the professional team that opened the first halfway house for girls in the state of Florida. Ms. Grefe supervised staff managed the intake process, counseled teens and their families and became the community liaison and spokesperson for the program.
Grefe holds a M.A. Degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a B.S. Degree in Criminology from Florida State University. As a student, she traveled extensively visiting police facilities and correctional institutions within the U.S. and abroad. She has two children, was a soccer coach, Girl Scout Leader for 10 years, and town coordinator for 4 years. She currently serves on the Board of SARDAA (Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Association of America).
Awards and Credentials
- National Director, Republican Pro-Choice Coalition, 1999-2002
- Director, Republican Pro-Choice Alliance of New York, 1995-1999
- Political Director of the National Republican Pro-Choice PAC, 1995-1999
- Former President of International Civics, Inc. (ICI)
- Co-founder and director, NY Area Public Affairs Professionals, 1980-1986
