The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association announces the departure of Executive Director Sue Warfield, as Kathy Trivisonno takes over in interim capacity
The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (Astra) has announced that Sue Warfield is stepping down as Executive Director.
Kathy Trivisonno, Director of Operations, has been appointed by the board as Interim Executive Director to ensure continuity of operations and member services while the board conducts a national search for Astra’s next Executive Director.
“It’s been an honor and my pleasure to serve Astra and its community,” said Sue. “Since taking on the Executive Director role in 2020, it’s been my goal to ensure that whenever it was time for new leadership that Astra was in a financially sound and positive position. Kathy will do an amazing job to keep that momentum going for our industry and members.”
Kathy will oversee day-to-day operations, member programmes, and planning for Astra’s flagship Marketplace & Academy event during the transition. The board has begun a formal search process for the organisation’s next Executive Director. Members will be kept informed at each stage.
“On behalf of the entire board, I want to thank Sue for her years of dedication and service to Astra and to the specialty toy community,” said Sandra Malott, Board Chair. “Astra has experienced tremendous growth over the last several years, and Sue has been an important part of that story.
“In collaboration with Sue, the board has been working towards a succession plan and is committed to a thoughtful, well-managed transition,” she added. “We look forward to celebrating Sue’s immense contribution to our organisation and industry at Marketplace & Academy in Pittsburgh in 2027. We are grateful to Kathy for stepping in to lead the team during this period.”
