NCIA Names Ronald L. George as Next President and Chief Executive Officer
Selected following a national search, George brings extensive human services leadership experience to guide NCIA’s next chapter of growth
BALTIMORE, MD. – NCIA today announced that Ronald L. George has been named the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2026. George succeeds Carole Argo, who, as previously announced, will retire from the role at the end of June.
George brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in human services, Medicaid-funded programs, nonprofit operations, financial stewardship, and strategic growth. He most recently served as Executive Vice President of Development and Chief Administrative Officer at Community Residences, Inc. (CRi), a $65 million multi-state human services organization supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, serious mental illness, at-risk youth, and individuals served through diversion and permanent supportive housing programs.
“After an extensive national search, the Board is confident that Ron George is the right leader at the right time to guide NCIA toward achieving its next defining milestones,” said Walid Petiri, chair of the NCIA Board of Directors. “He has the values, experience, expertise, and steady leadership needed to build on NCIA’s strong foundation, support our staff and expand our impact while remaining rooted in our mission.”
During his 14 years with CRi, George helped guide the nonprofit’s growth from $25 million to $65 million while strengthening operations, maintaining regulatory compliance and supporting long-term financial sustainability. Earlier in his career, George served as Chief Operating Officer of the NFL Alumni Association, where he helped lead organizational restructuring, national partnerships, sponsorship development, and nationwide nonprofit operations. A graduate of Stanford University with a degree in economics, George played football at Stanford before continuing his career in the NFL.
George’s appointment as the third CEO in NCIA’s nearly 50-year history marks a significant leadership transition for the organization. Argo, who succeeded NCIA co-founder Herb Hoelter as the organization’s second CEO, has helped carry forward the founding belief that everyone deserves a second chance to succeed.
“NCIA’s mission resonates with me both personally and professionally,” said George. “I have spent much of my career working to ensure people facing significant challenges have the dignity, support and opportunities they deserve. I am honored to join NCIA and look forward to listening, learning and working alongside the Board, leadership team and staff to help carry this important work forward.”
“Ron understands the complexity of this work and the responsibility of staying connected to NCIA’s mission,” said Argo. “He brings experience in areas that are important to NCIA’s future, along with a deep respect for the staff, programs and people who have shaped this organization’s impact over nearly 50 years. NCIA is in strong hands as Ron steps into this role.”
George and Argo will work closely over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition, and Argo will remain involved as a Senior Advisor and member of the Board of Directors.
About NCIA
Founded in 1977, NCIA is dedicated to empowering people with limited access to opportunities to build fulfilling lives and stronger communities through unconditional support. Driven by the belief that everyone deserves a fair chance to succeed, NCIA provides a wide range of services, including vocational training, youth special education, and comprehensive offerings for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We help people who need the deepest levels of support, including those with mental health disorders, recovering from addiction or homelessness, unemployed or underemployed, veterans, and returning citizens. Headquartered in Baltimore, NCIA has become a trusted partner and a beacon of hope for over 25,000 individuals throughout Maryland and beyond. By promoting independence, financial stability, equity, and compassion, NCIA is changing lives, one person at a time. For more information, visit www.ncianet.org.
