Our Lady of Victory Homes of Charity Board of Directors proudly announces the appointment of David J. Kersten as Chief Executive Officer.   Our Lady of Victory Homes of Charity is the fundraising and support services arm of Our Lady of Victory Organizations / Father Baker’s. 

In his new role, Kersten will be the public face of the organization and responsible for the fundraising efforts of the Homes of Charity, which involve multiple channels, such as direct mail solicitations, fundraising events, planned gifts, charitable gift annuities, and other giving vehicles.  He will also oversee a full range of strategic and operational activities for the Homes, which include but are not limited to support service growth / retention, fiduciary oversight, and policy implementation.

Previously, Kersten served as vice president of development for Catholic Health System.  He also functioned as president of ParishPay, Inc., and as executive director of the Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo. 

 “The Homes of Charity is thrilled to add an esteemed member of the community to our lead our ministry’s efforts,” said Tony Kubera, chair of the Homes of Charity Board of Directors.  “David’s mission-driven focus, and Diocesan background, will be instrumental in guiding the strategic direction of the organization for many years to come.  If Father Baker were still with us today, I’m confident in saying he would be pleased with David’s appointment.”

Kersten received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Niagara University, a Bachelor of Sacred Theology from Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas and Master of Ecumenical Studies from Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome, and an MBA in Church Business Administration from the Graduate Theological Foundation in South Bend, Indiana.

Kersten is active on the board of directors for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western New York and is an advisory board member for Gerard Place.  He is also a member of the Association for Fundraising Professionals of WNY, the National Catholic Development Conference, the National Planned Giving Council, the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy, and the WNY Planned Giving Consortium.