Lauren Kolb serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Mercy Flight Central, where she leads the organization’s strategic direction, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability. With a distinguished career spanning both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, Lauren is known for driving growth, strengthening organizational performance, and positioning mission-driven organizations for the future.

Since stepping into her role as CEO, Lauren has focused on elevating Mercy Flight Central’s impact across the region—strengthening partnerships, enhancing visibility within the healthcare and HEMS landscape, and ensuring the organization remains a critical, trusted resource for the communities it serves.

Prior to joining Mercy Flight Central, Lauren served as Senior Vice President and Senior Wealth Advisor at Tompkins Financial Advisors, where she managed a $125M+ portfolio, led innovative client experience programs, and drove new business development initiatives. Her leadership consistently delivered measurable results through scalable solutions, streamlined operations, and forward-thinking strategy. She also played a key role in launching a SUNY-approved internship program and designing a premier retirement plan solution that increased revenue while reducing risk.

Earlier in her career, Lauren held senior leadership roles at Canandaigua National Corporation and Genesee Valley Trust Company, where she generated more than $100 million in new business, even amid challenging economic conditions.

Lauren’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in the communities she serves. She has held numerous board and leadership roles, including Vice Chair of Major Gifts for Mercy Flight Central, President of the Canandaigua Chamber of Commerce, and leadership positions with the United Way, Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance, and several regional nonprofits. Her contributions have been recognized with honors such as the ATHENA Award, the Rochester Business Journal’s Financial Leadership Award, and Alumna of the Year at Roberts Wesleyan University.

She holds a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management, both with high honors from Roberts Wesleyan University. Lauren is also a Certified Wealth Strategist® and has completed advanced training in project management, emotional intelligence, and leadership development.

A collaborative and forward-thinking leader, Lauren is deeply committed to Mercy Flight Central’s mission—ensuring that expert, compassionate air medical care remains accessible, responsive, and sustainable for the communities who depend on it.

Lauren lives in Victor, New York, with her husband, Brian, and their Labrador, Kolby.

Read Lauren’s full bio and announcement here.