Women's and Children's Alliance names longtime employee as new CEO

Laura Honn to lead Boise-based nonprofit after Bea Black's retirement

Mar. 26, 2026 at 12:52am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Women's and Children's Alliance (WCA) has named Laura Honn as its new CEO, succeeding longtime leader Bea Black who is retiring after 18 years at the helm of the Boise-based nonprofit. Honn, who has served on the WCA's executive leadership team for six years, will officially assume the role on April 6.

Why it matters

The WCA is a critical organization that provides services and support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence in the Boise area. Honn's appointment comes at a challenging time for nonprofits as funding landscapes shift and demand for services grows, making her experience and leadership crucial to the WCA's continued success.

The details

Honn, who most recently served as the WCA's director of revenue and outreach, has nearly two decades of human services experience, including work in domestic violence and sexual assault services in the UK and the US. The WCA Board of Directors cited Honn's deep familiarity with the organization and her ability to respond to unpredictable challenges as key factors in her selection as the new CEO.

  • Bea Black announced her retirement in 2025 after 18 years leading the WCA.
  • Honn will officially assume the CEO role on April 6, 2026.

The players

Laura Honn

The new CEO of the Women's and Children's Alliance, having previously served on the organization's executive leadership team for six years.

Bea Black

The longtime former CEO of the Women's and Children's Alliance, who is retiring after 18 years of leading the organization.

Jess Flynn

The president of the WCA Board of Directors and a member of the CEO search committee.

Women's and Children's Alliance (WCA)

A Boise-based nonprofit that provides services and support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“As funding landscapes shift and the demand for our services grows, we needed a CEO with both the vision and the grounding to lead through that complexity, and we are confident Laura is that person.”

— Jess Flynn, President of the WCA Board of Directors

“The challenges we face these days are usually unexpected and come without warning. Being able to pivot and adapt are abilities that she has demonstrated from very early on in her tenure at the organization. I look forward to celebrating the success of the WCA under her leadership in the years to come.”

— Bea Black, Former CEO of the Women's and Children's Alliance

What’s next

Honn will officially assume the CEO role on April 6, 2026, leading the WCA through a challenging time for nonprofits serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

The takeaway

The appointment of Laura Honn as the new CEO of the Women's and Children's Alliance highlights the importance of experienced, adaptable leadership at nonprofit organizations that provide critical services to vulnerable communities. Honn's deep familiarity with the WCA and her proven ability to respond to unexpected challenges will be crucial as the organization navigates shifting funding landscapes and growing demand for its services.