Key Staff

CEO—Michael Piraino
Joined the staff in 1994. Law degrees from Cornell Law School and Oxford University. While practicing law, represented children as a guardian ad litem and served as a consultant to international social service and child advocacy organizations in Europe and Southeast Asia. Has also worked as a juvenile probation officer and was an associate research scientist for the National Center for Children in Poverty at Columbia University.

Deputy CEO—M. Carmela Welte
Joined the staff in 1990 and immediately began working on passage of the Victims of Child Abuse Act, which created federal funding for CASA programs. Has worked in fundraising and public relations since 1979 and was formerly a legislative assistant in the US Senate.

Chief Communications Officer—Jim Clune
Joined the staff in 1998. Over 26 years of experience in advertising with major advertising agencies in Los Angeles and Seattle, brand management and marketing research. MA from the University of Oregon School of Journalism.

Chief Development Officer—Deborah Edison
Joined the staff in 2008. Over 20 years of experience in fundraising, more than half in the HIV/AIDS arena and subsequently for Seattle-based non-profit serving foster children. BA from Barnard College.

Chief Financial Officer—Thomas Dunn
Joined the staff in 2000, managing both the Finance and Information Systems functions of the organization. Worked in private industry for 10 years, with experience in accounting, cost analysis and budgeting before moving to nonprofits.

Chief Program Officer—Sally Wilson Erny
Joined the staff in 1998. Over 25 years of experience in the child advocacy field including 13 years as director of the CASA program in Louisville, Kentucky. BS from the University of Louisville School of Justice Administration.

Human Resources Director—Jill A. Wiedenhoft, PHR
Joined the staff in 1990. BA in Sociology from Western Washington University. PHR (professional in human resources) certification.