United Planet elects new board officers

United Planet named new officers for its Board of Directors on Oct. 1, 2026, tapping Michael Steinberg as chair, Amy Kemmerer as treasurer and João Chagas as secretary. The leadership changes are meant to reinforce the nonprofit’s governance, financial stewardship and global programs as it expands cross-cultural engagement.

Why it matters: - United Planet is adding board leadership with deep experience in international education, compliance and nonprofit governance. - The new officers are expected to support the organization’s financial sustainability, strategic direction and cross-cultural mission. - The transition also signals continuity after the organization thanked outgoing Chair Tim Castano and outgoing Secretary Tracey Lesetar-Smith for their service.

What happened: - United Planet elected Michael Steinberg as chair of the board, Amy Kemmerer as treasurer and João Chagas as secretary. - The board changes were announced Oct. 1, 2026. - United Planet is an international nonprofit focused on global understanding and positive change through international service and cross-cultural engagement.

The details: - Steinberg brings more than four decades of experience in international education and nonprofit leadership. - Steinberg retired in 2018 as executive vice president and director of academic programs at IES Abroad after a 41-year career there. - Steinberg helped establish study centers at more than 30 locations worldwide. - Steinberg received the Peter Wollitzer Advocacy Award from the Forum on Education Abroad and the Education Abroad Leadership Award from NAFSA. - Since retiring, Steinberg has served on nonprofit boards and worked as a consultant to the Forum on Education Abroad and as a volunteer consultant to the Council of International Programs in Chicago. - Kemmerer’s role centers on service leadership, financial stewardship and responsible governance. - Kemmerer will help align organizational resources with long-term mission priorities. - Chagas brings more than 15 years of experience in compliance, risk management, human resources and organizational leadership across the U.S. and Brazil. - Chagas is currently chief compliance officer and director of human resources at TerraCap Management, an SEC-registered private real estate investment firm. - Chagas previously held senior compliance roles at Bovill, Balyasny Asset Management, BTG Pactual and Credit Suisse. - Chagas is a Brazilian native and is fluent in Portuguese, English and Spanish. - Chagas has visited more than 30 countries. - United Planet said the officers’ combined experience will support partnerships, organizational strength and opportunities for people to connect across cultures. - United Planet said the new leadership will help advance its mission and strengthen its impact.

Between the lines: - The board mix suggests United Planet is prioritizing international credibility, operational discipline and mission alignment. - Steinberg’s background points to continued emphasis on global education and program development. - Chagas’ compliance and HR experience suggests a focus on organizational structure and internal controls. - Kemmerer’s treasurer role underscores the importance of financial management for a nonprofit that depends on sustainable resources.

What's next: - The new officers are beginning their terms. - United Planet plans to use the board transition to deepen its partnerships and expand opportunities for cross-cultural learning. - The nonprofit says the leadership team will help create more opportunities for communities to learn from one another and build relationships.

The bottom line: - United Planet is betting on seasoned global leaders to strengthen governance while advancing its international service mission. - More information is available at United Planet.