Marklund Executive and Leadership Team

Kudus Badmus, the Chief Financial Officer at Marklund, directs all fiscal operations and long-term financial planning for the organization. Managing the complex budgetary requirements of a nonprofit providing specialized care for individuals with profound developmental disabilities, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the sustainability of essential healthcare programs. Badmus oversees the allocation of resources across various residential and therapeutic facilities, maintaining strict compliance with regulatory standards. By optimizing revenue cycles and grant management, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of services for infants, children, and adults with special healthcare needs. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the board to align financial health with the broader mission of the organization. Through rigorous oversight of capital expenditures and operational costs, Kudus Badmus secures the financial foundation necessary for delivering high-quality care across the regional network.

Thomas Kazda, the Chief Information Officer at Marklund, architects the digital infrastructure and data security frameworks supporting the organization. Managing the technological needs of a nonprofit focused on serious developmental disabilities, the Chief Information Officer implements robust systems for electronic health records and clinical data management. Kazda drives the integration of assistive technologies that improve communication and daily living for residents. By overseeing cybersecurity protocols and network reliability, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive patient information while ensuring seamless connectivity across all facilities. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging health-tech solutions to enhance operational efficiency and clinical outcomes. Through the modernization of internal platforms, Thomas Kazda enables staff to focus on providing superior care for individuals with profound special healthcare needs, ultimately strengthening the digital backbone of the entire organization.

Marie Loiacono, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Marklund, manages the entire talent lifecycle and organizational culture for the nonprofit. Overseeing recruitment, retention, and professional development for staff dedicated to supporting individuals with profound developmental disabilities, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the workforce remains highly skilled and compassionate. Loiacono directs the implementation of comprehensive benefits programs and employee engagement initiatives that foster a supportive work environment. By aligning human capital strategies with the mission of providing specialized healthcare, the Director, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer maintains high standards of care across all residential programs. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor regulations and promoting diversity within the clinical and administrative teams. Through strategic workforce planning, Marie Loiacono drives the organizational growth necessary to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Dawn Lassiter-Brueske, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at Marklund, manages all external messaging, public relations, and brand strategy for the organization. Overseeing the narrative surrounding the care of infants, children, and adults with profound developmental disabilities, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) cultivates relationships with donors, community partners, and the public. Lassiter-Brueske directs the development of marketing campaigns that highlight the impact of specialized healthcare services and residential programs. By coordinating outreach efforts and managing media inquiries, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) ensures consistent communication of the organizational mission. This leadership role involves collaborating with executive peers to translate complex clinical achievements into compelling stories that drive fundraising and volunteer engagement. Through the strategic management of the brand, Dawn Lassiter-Brueske elevates the visibility of the organization, securing the support required to sustain high-level care for individuals with special healthcare needs.