Mark Newman succeeds Wendy Hart as American Friends of Jamaica president
Key Points(5)
- Mark Newman has assumed the presidency of the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), succeeding Wendy Hart, who stepped down after 11 years leading the nonprofit organization.
- The leadership transition was announced at AFJ's Hummingbird Gala on Oct.
- 16 at The Plaza in New York, where Hart introduced Newman as her successor.
- During her tenure, Hart oversaw the organization's fundraising and partnerships with U.S.
- donors to support charities and community organizations across Jamaica.
Mark Newman has assumed the presidency of the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), succeeding Wendy Hart, who stepped down after 11 years leading the nonprofit organization.
The leadership transition was announced at AFJ's Hummingbird Gala on Oct. 16 at The Plaza in New York, where Hart introduced Newman as her successor.
During her tenure, Hart oversaw the organization's fundraising and partnerships with U.S. donors to support charities and community organizations across Jamaica. AFJ also mobilized nearly US$12 million in cash and in-kind assistance following Hurricane Melissa to support affected families, schools, healthcare facilities and farmers.
Hart was awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer (OD) in Jamaica's 2026 National Honours and Awards in recognition of her contributions to the country, including her work with AFJ. The organization has supported hundreds of projects in education, healthcare and economic development.
Newman paid tribute to Hart during the gala, acknowledging her contributions to the organization and Jamaica.
“For the past eleven years, AFJ has been led by a woman who gave her time, her energy, her heart, and her Rolodex to this organisation,” he said. “Wendy Hart, thank you for everything you have done for AFJ and for Jamaica.”
Newman brings more than 30 years of international business experience to the role, having held senior leadership positions at several global companies, including serving as president and CEO of The Chemours Company.
The Delaware Business Times named him CEO of the Year in 2023, while Savoy magazine has recognized him among the most influential Black executives in corporate America.
He has also maintained ties to Jamaica and supported AFJ's agricultural recovery initiatives following Hurricane Melissa, including the Small Farmer Gift Card programme and a donation of organic seeds from Back to the Roots.
In 2022, Newman was among six individuals recognized at the Official Jamaica 60 Diamond Jubilee Gala in New York.
Speaking about his plans for the organization, Newman said he intends to expand participation in AFJ while building on its existing work in Jamaica.
“With your help, our goal is to strengthen and broaden AFJ, so that our impact in Jamaica is not just generous, but sustainable,” he told guests.
Established in 1982, AFJ has raised more than US$32 million for Jamaica. Newman said the response to hurricanes Beryl and Melissa demonstrated the strength of support for the island among members of the diaspora and Americans with connections to Jamaica.
Newman's wife, Kathleen Newman, has served on AFJ's board since 2018.
Hart's contributions will be formally recognized at the organization's Miami Gala on March 20, 2027.
