Welcome. I’m Kevin L. Hagan, I’m the CEO over at Thrive Impact. I’m often asked why I use my middle initial whenever I sign a document or use my name. Some people think it’s odd and others think it’s just pretentious, so just to clarify…..here’s the story…….
I am Kevin L. Hagan, the “L” being the most important part of my name.
After having grown up in a town of 3,000 people with another Kevin Hagan (1 year older), the “L” signified which Kevin Hagan I was my entire childhood and adolescence. It literally defined who I was.
So who do people think am I today?
Most people would tell you I’m a really nice guy.
My hometown would say that I outgrew it by the time I turned four years old (someone actually did say that!)
I’m a proud graduate of Mercer University in Macon, GA and American University in Washington, DC.
I’m married to Rev. Elizabeth Hagan, who has taught me the value of a good blog.
From 2012-2015, I served as the President & CEO of Feed the Children helping to re-invigorate and modernize the programming of this legendary charity.
From 2015-2017, I’ve served as CEO of the American Diabetes Association to help re-envision their role in the diabetes ecosystem launching a new strategic plan and operations model.
A former C-level executive at the Postal Service describes me as having a political prowess unlike anything he’d ever seen (I’m still wondering if that’s a compliment or not!)
My former co-workers would tell you that I’m highly strategic and laser focused when I set my mind on accomplishing something.
People who have worked with me would say that I always try to give everyone a voice, believe in co-creation and work hard to ensure an environment of dignity and respect.
Teams I have managed will tell you that I’m open, transparent as possible, and I expect excellence but believe in having fun along the way because we are tackling some of the world’s toughest problems.
Those who have worked for me will attest that I invest in developing staff and teams and that many who have worked for me now serve in CEO and other Chief level roles at nonprofits around the world.
My friends would say I’m a lucky man, have a strong moral compass, but that I work too much.
The Chronicle of Philanthropy described me as low key and self-deprecating (which is why I feel really weird having my own website, but I do it for the love of the mission organizations that I serve).
My barista at Starbucks would say that I’m a caffeine junkie and that he/she thinks it’s strange that the only drink I ever order is iced tea.
My wife would say that I’m NEVER allowed to go to the grocery store unaccompanied and that the laundry is off limits to me.
When a friend was recently asked to describe my personality, her response was “his personality can’t be described, it has to be experienced” – I’m going to assume that was a compliment!
While there’s probably some level of truth to the above perceptions of me, I’m fortunate to be confident in who I am.
I am Kevin L. Hagan – a man of quiet, but strong faith; lucky beyond imagination because I was blessed with an amazing family and upbringing, and won the lottery when I found and married Elizabeth Hagan, a woman who loves me, challenges me, and makes me a better man every single day. I’m also proud to be Amelia’s dad.
Thanks for reading,
Kevin