Classic Wines Announces New Leadership Structure

Classic Wines Foundation Announces New Leadership Structure and Names Kruthika “Kay” von Schlegell as Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Portland, OR — March 9, 2026

Classic Wines Foundation (CWF) today announced a strengthened leadership structure designed to guide the organization into its next chapter of growth and impact. The Foundation has appointed Kruthika “Kay” von Schlegell as Executive Director and named Kristy Anderson as Managing Director.

Together, the two roles expand the Foundation’s leadership capacity and position the organization to deepen its impact across the greater Portland metropolitan region.

Since 1982, Classic Wines Foundation has raised more than $53 million to support nonprofit partners serving children and families across Oregon. The organization transforms a passion for wine and community into life-changing support for programs serving some of the region’s most vulnerable populations.

Kay von Schlegell brings more than a decade of leadership experience in hospitality, fundraising, and strategic growth. Most recently, she served on the opening team at The Ritz-Carlton, Portland as Senior Sales Executive, where she led revenue-generating initiatives and cultivated high-level partnerships. Prior to relocating to Portland, she spent nearly 11 years at the Gramercy Park Hotel in New York City as Assistant Director of Events, overseeing more than 120 events annually and generating an average of $3.75 million in annual revenue.

As Executive Director, von Schlegell will partner with the Board of Directors to lead the Foundation’s strategic direction, expand fundraising capacity, strengthen governance, and elevate Classic Wines Foundation’s brand and community presence.

“Kay is exactly the right leader to guide Classic Wines Foundation into its next evolution,” said Tygue Howland, Board Co-Chair of Classic Wines Foundation. “Classic Wines has long been defined by its excellence and community impact, and Kay brings the strategic vision and creative energy to elevate that legacy in fresh, dynamic ways. Her polished leadership and deep community connections will strengthen the Foundation’s presence and expand our ability to make a lasting difference.”

Kristy Anderson, who has been with the organization for over 20 years and served in an acting executive capacity since 2020, will continue in a senior leadership role as Managing Director. In this position, she will oversee operational execution, event production, and organizational infrastructure while partnering closely with the Executive Director to support the Foundation’s strategic initiatives.

“Kristy’s leadership and commitment have been instrumental in sustaining and strengthening the organization throughout the past six years,” said Patti Harrison, Board Co-Chair. “Her operational expertise and institutional knowledge are invaluable as we build the Foundation’s next chapter.”

“I’m very excited to welcome Kay and to partner together on this next chapter,” said Anderson. “Classic Wines Foundation has an extraordinary community of supporters, partners and beneficiaries, and this evolution positions us to grow our impact in meaningful ways.”

“I am honored to join Classic Wines Foundation at such an exciting moment,” said von Schlegell. “This organization represents the very best of the wine and hospitality communities coming together to create meaningful change. I look forward to working alongside the Board, Kristy, and our partners to expand our impact for children and families across our region.”

For more information about Classic Wines Foundation and its upcoming events, visit classicwinesfoundation.com.

Media Contact:

Kristy Anderson

Classic Wines Foundation

kristy@classicwinesfoundation.com

503-972-0194