Arizona Burn Foundation Names Bridget Doherty as Chief Executive Officer

Bridget’s appointment was recently featured in the Phoenix Business Journal. [View the coverage]

[PHOENIX, AZ – MAY 19, 2026] – The Arizona Burn Foundation (ABF) today announced that Bridget Doherty has been appointed chief executive officer. Doherty has served as interim CEO since December 2025 following the retirement of Rex Albright and will now lead ABF’s statewide efforts in burn prevention, survivor support, and family-centered recovery services.

Doherty joined ABF full-time in May 2024 as chief development officer, where she led fundraising and partnership strategies to sustain and expand services for burn survivors and their families. She brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience in development and organizational growth.

“Bridget has a gift for building meaningful relationships across the communities we serve—survivors, donors, community partners, and volunteers—creating a strong foundation for continued growth,” said Ashley Hower, ABF Board Chair. “Her vision for ABF’s future is thoughtful, intentional, and deeply rooted in the mission and legacy on which we were founded. I am incredibly proud to welcome Bridget as the CEO of the Arizona Burn Foundation.”

As CEO, Doherty will oversee organizational operations and long-term strategy, with a focus on expanding advocacy and prevention programs and ensuring survivors across Arizona can access both practical and emotional support throughout their recovery.

ABF supported more than 800 burn survivors and their families last year, providing lodging, transportation, and essential recovery resources. Nearly 800 individuals also experienced life-changing connections and community through ABF camps, retreats, and social gatherings. In addition, ABF installed more than 1,700 no-cost smoke alarms in high-risk homes and delivered vital fire prevention education to approximately 45,000 children.

During her interim tenure, Doherty prioritized gathering input from burn survivors and families, as well as community partners and donors, to help shape ABF’s future direction.

“It’s an honor to serve as CEO of the Arizona Burn Foundation,” said Doherty. “As we look ahead, we are focused on expanding our reach across Arizona through prevention education, stronger partnerships, and deeper community engagement. Our goal is simple: to find a way to say yes — and continue making a difference, one home and one survivor at a time. Under Bridget’s leadership, ABF is well positioned to expand its impact and continue serving burn survivors and families across Arizona.

Under Bridget’s leadership, ABF is well positioned to expand its impact and continue serving burn survivors and families across Arizona.