National Kidney Donation Organization Announces Leadership Transition

([Cos Cob, CT] – [February 6, 2025]) —

The National Kidney Donation Organization (NKDO) announced the appointment of Dr. Matthew Harmody as Board Chair and Emily Polet-Monterosso as Executive Director, marking a significant leadership transition as the organization continues to grow.

Harmody, a respected leader in the healthcare community, brings extensive experience in nonprofit management and a deep commitment to kidney health. His connection to the cause is personal and professional: his father experienced acute renal failure at age 50; he spent twenty-five years as an ER doctor caring for patients with chronic kidney disease; and in 2017, he made a non-directed kidney donation. Since retiring from practice, Harmody has split his time between local hospital leadership, living kidney donation advocacy, and writing a book. His expertise and dedication position him well to lead NKDO’s Board of Directors.

“As someone who has seen kidney disease from many angles—as a doctor, a family member, and a donor—I know how critical NKDO’s mission is,” said Harmody. “I look forward to bringing my experience to the table to help NKDO continue its important work, supporting both donors and recipients in transformative ways.”

Polet-Monterosso, who previously served as NKDO’s Director of Community Engagement, will lead the organization’s day-to-day management. A kidney donor herself, she brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the donor community. Her new role will focus on stakeholder engagement and program growth.

“I am honored to step into the role of Executive Director and to work alongside Matt and the Board of Directors as we build on the work that’s come before us,” said Polet-Monterosso. “Together, we will continue to elevate NKDO’s mission and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by kidney disease.”

This leadership transition follows the retirement of NKDO founder Ned Brooks, who stepped down from his role as CEO and President on February 1, 2025. Since founding the organization in 2017, Brooks has played a pivotal role in advancing kidney donation awareness and improving the lives of individuals affected by kidney disease. Under his leadership, NKDO developed outreach programs, expanded donor education and mentoring, and grew NKDO into the largest member organization of living kidney donors and related stakeholders in the world.

About the National Kidney Donation Organization

The National Kidney Donation Organization  is dedicated to promoting kidney donation, raising awareness about transplantation, and providing support to living donors, those considering donation, kidney patients, and their families. Through mentorship, education, advocacy, and community engagement, NKDO aims to increase the number of living kidney donations and improve access to transplantation. For more information, visit www.nkdo.org.