Anna Pringle named CEO of the solidarity-through-sport movement The organisation now in 40 communities across Ireland Sanctuary Runners was last week recognised with a major international award as a leading initiative to assist refugee integration into communities Anna Pringle has been appointed as the organisation’s new CEO. A long-time Sanctuary Runner, Anna has been instrumental
Anna Pringle has been appointed as the organisation’s new CEO.
A long-time Sanctuary Runner, Anna has been instrumental in building the solidarity-through-sport movement since the organisation was founded in 2018.
Since 2021 Anna, a Donegal native, has served in a voluntary capacity as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Sanctuary Runners.
She has extensive leadership experience in senior roles in the corporate sector, spanning human resources, communications and organisational development, in Ireland and the US.
In recent years she has been a climate change researcher. She also serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees at Friends of the Earth Ireland.
Anna Pringle succeeds former Dublin footballer Michael Darragh Macauley as CEO of the Sanctuary Runners.
She takes up her new role as the Sanctuary Runners were recognised with a major global award at the annual International Sport and Culture Association Awards in Copenhagen on October 29th.
With over 40 local Sanctuary Runners groups established around Ireland, the organisation has also established itself in the UK in recent months, with a group already active in Brighton. The organisation has further plans to develop groups in cities across the world.
Reacting to her appointment Anna Pringle said: “It’s a real honour to take on this role. Since 2018, I have been continually inspired by the people in Sanctuary Runners around the country, from all walks of life. They are a really positive reminder of the power of kindness and friendship at a time when it’s badly needed. The international recognition from the International Sport and Culture Association underlines that our model is relevant to other parts of the world. I’m excited to continue to build the Sanctuary Runners movement in Ireland and beyond – especially at a time when the issue of immigration has been weaponised by many. While some may wish to divide our communities, we will always seek to unite.”
Dr Sineád Walsh, on the behalf of the Board of Trustees, said: “We are delighted to have appointed Anna Pringle as the new CEO of Sanctuary Runners. Anna’s long track record with the organisation, as well as her extensive experience in the corporate and not-for-profit sectors make her an ideal fit for this role. Anna is taking up this role at a very exciting time for Sanctuary Runners as we continue to expand our work in Ireland and internationally.”
She added that the importance of the Sanctuary Runner organisation in the current climate could not be more clear.
“There has possibly never been a time where the goals and values of the Sanctuary Runners organisation have been more relevant. We are reminded every day of the importance of strong community integration and the inclusion of all in our society, with solidarity, friendship and respect.”
