Theresa Kennedy is a seasoned executive leader with more than two decades of experience in child welfare, human trafficking prevention, and nonprofit operations.

She recently transitioned from her role as Chief Operating Officer at Kristi House, Miami’s Children’s Advocacy Center, where she managed day-to-day operations across six locations. Her leadership portfolio encompassed Human Resources, Information Technology, Quality Assurance, and Regulatory Compliance—ensuring adherence to COA Accreditation and National Children’s Alliance standards.

Theresa currently serves as Chief Anti-Trafficking and Prevention Officer, providing strategic oversight for Project GOLD, a drop-in center supporting youth and young adults impacted by human trafficking. She also oversees the Prevention Education and Outreach Department at Kristi House.

Theresa brings a strong record of system transformation. As Regional Human Trafficking Coordinator for the Florida Department of Children and Families, she developed statewide policy, training protocols, and cross-agency coordination models. Earlier in her career, as Assistant Vice President at ChildNet, she led case management, independent living, and adoption services across two counties—building lasting partnerships with courts, community agencies, stakeholders, and funders.

A mission-driven and visionary leader, Theresa has guided multiple organizations through accreditation processes, policy modernization, and performance improvement initiatives. She has built and sustained survivor-informed programming, contributed to national and regional task forces, and is a respected presenter on child exploitation, trauma, and systems-based solutions.

Her dedication has been recognized through honors such as the FLITE Center’s Lifetime Heroes Award and the Ark of Freedom Alliance’s “Iron Maiden” Award for her unwavering commitment to vulnerable youth.