Roger Burns

Roger Burns, Ph.D.

Roger is passionate about helping mission-driven organizations translate strategic ambition into sustainable operations and scaled impact. With 30 years of senior leadership experience across workforce development, education, cultural, and faith-based sectors, he has developed deep expertise in organizational strategy, philanthropic funding, government relations, and cross-sector partnerships.

Throughout his career, Roger has worked collaboratively with boards, staff, and community stakeholders to develop and implement strategic and operational plans. He excels in diagnosing organizational challenges, designing sustainable systems, building authentic partnerships with funders and government stakeholders, and leading teams through complex growth and change. Known as a strategic operator who brings clarity to complexity, Roger understands the intersection of mission, strategy, and financial sustainability—and how to align all three to strengthen organizational impact.

Roger holds a Ph.D. in American History from the University of Cincinnati, an M.Div from Lexington Theological Seminary, and a B.S. in Political Science from Missouri State University. Roger is a father of three children, and resides in the Atlanta metro area with his wife. A Missouri native, Roger is an avid fan of all Kansas City sports teams.