Baker Ripley Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Baker Ripley has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, organizational strategy, financial management, and operational legal oversight.

Dedicated to community empowerment, Baker Ripley provides essential resources and education across Texas to foster long-term stability and growth for diverse populations.

Leadership Roles at Baker Ripley

  • Chief Financial Officer - Vicki Hitzhusen
  • Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer - Kate Birenbaum
  • Chief Information Officer - Evan Peterson
  • Chief of Staff - Regina Harris
  • Vicki Hitzhusen - Chief Financial Officer

    Vicki Hitzhusen, the Chief Financial Officer at Baker Ripley, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the charitable network. Hitzhusen oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and grant management to ensure the sustainability of community programs across Texas. By implementing rigorous financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and compliance with regulatory standards. This leadership role involves analyzing revenue streams and optimizing expenditures to maximize the impact of available resources. Vicki Hitzhusen collaborates with the board to develop long-term financial strategies that support organizational growth and stability. Through the oversight of accounting functions, the Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary data to guide executive decisions regarding service expansion. Hitzhusen ensures that every dollar contributes directly to the mission of providing education and support to the community. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial future of the organization through disciplined fiscal management.
    Kate Birenbaum, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer at Baker Ripley, governs both the daily service operations and the legal framework of the organization. Birenbaum directs the management of multiple service sites, ensuring that community programs function effectively across Texas. As the Chief Legal Officer, Birenbaum oversees risk management, contract negotiations, and regulatory compliance to protect the charitable entity. This dual leadership role involves balancing operational efficiency with strict adherence to legal standards. Kate Birenbaum architects policies that streamline service delivery while mitigating potential liabilities. By integrating legal oversight into operational planning, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer ensures that all initiatives remain within the bounds of charitable law. Birenbaum drives organizational excellence by refining processes and maintaining high standards of governance. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer secures the operational integrity required to deliver consistent support to the community.

    Evan Peterson - Chief Information Officer

    Evan Peterson, the Chief Information Officer at Baker Ripley, directs the digital infrastructure supporting charitable service delivery across Texas. Peterson architects secure data systems that enable efficient tracking of community resources and educational program outcomes. By modernizing internal networks, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity between multiple service sites. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive participant information while optimizing software platforms for staff productivity. Evan Peterson maintains alignment with organizational goals by integrating advanced technology solutions into daily operations. Through the implementation of scalable cloud services, the Chief Information Officer drives digital transformation efforts that enhance the overall reach of the organization. Peterson prioritizes data integrity and system reliability to support the broader mission of providing accessible community services. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer secures the technological foundation necessary for sustained charitable impact throughout the region.
    Evan Peterson

    Regina Harris - Chief of Staff

    Regina Harris, the Chief of Staff at Baker Ripley, coordinates executive initiatives and streamlines communication across the leadership team. Harris manages the strategic planning process to ensure organizational objectives align with the mission of providing community resources. By facilitating cross-departmental collaboration, the Chief of Staff optimizes internal workflows and enhances operational efficiency. This leadership role involves overseeing high-priority projects that impact service delivery across Texas. Regina Harris monitors progress on key performance indicators to maintain accountability and drive continuous improvement. Through the synthesis of complex information, the Chief of Staff supports informed decision-making at the executive level. Harris fosters a culture of transparency and alignment, ensuring that all departments remain focused on the core charitable goals. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff executes the vision of the organization by bridging the gap between strategic planning and daily operational execution.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Baker Ripley Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Baker Ripley?
    Baker Ripley is led by Vicki Hitzhusen (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Kate Birenbaum (Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer) and Evan Peterson (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Baker Ripley’s executive team?
    The executive team of Baker Ripley includes leaders such as Vicki Hitzhusen (Chief Financial Officer), Kate Birenbaum (Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer), Evan Peterson (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Baker Ripley have?
    Baker Ripley has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Baker Ripley’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Baker Ripley includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff.