National Public Radio has hired Monique Hanson, currently Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer for YMCA of the USA, as NPR's new head fundraiser. The announcement was made by NPR President/CEO Gary E. Knell. Hanson's appointment begins in early October, and she will lead NPR's fundraising programs - including major and planned giving and foundation grants - which taken together are NPR's third largest source of revenue.

"Monique has the experience needed to take NPR to new heights in fundraising. She brings vision and a collaborative spirit that will help us forge innovative partnerships with NPR member stations across the country," said Knell. "I'm excited that we found a leader that embraces our potential to strengthen our nation's democracy and enrich people's day to day lives."

Hanson commented, "I look forward to applying my full skill-set to NPR, in particular my collaboration-building expertise, which I hope will be helpful to public radio as a whole. NPR has established its place as one of our nation's premier media organizations and I believe I'm coming in at the perfect time to play a role in ensuring its future. Above all, the mission of NPR speaks to my professional and personal passions."