As of July 1, 2026, the Supervisory Board has appointed a new Management Board of the "Krzyżowa" Foundation for Mutual Understanding in Europe.
Results of the Open Competition
Following an open competition and a multi-stage recruitment process, two experienced leaders who have been involved with the Foundation for years – Aleksandra Królak-Wąsowicz and Anna Kudarewska – have been appointed to the Management Board. Both assumed their roles on July 1, 2026.
The new Board members have been co-creating the Foundation's activities for many years, holding directorial positions and actively participating in defining its strategic development.
Aleksandra Królak-Wąsowicz has been associated with the Foundation for over 20 years. She played a key role in the creation and development of the Innovation and Development Office, as well as the "Zielona Kraina" (Green Land) Kindergarten. Thanks to her commitment, the "Krzyżowa" Foundation has become one of the most important entities supporting educational development in the Świdnica, Dzierżoniów, and Kłodzko districts. By successfully securing European funds, she contributed to projects that increased educational opportunities for children and youth from regions with weaker economic potential, granting them access to high-quality education comparable to the offers available in major urban centers.
Anna Kudarewska has been co-shaping the Foundation for 10 years, managing the International Youth Meeting Centre (IYMC) in Krzyżowa. Under her leadership, the facility has become one of the most prominent centers for non-formal education in Poland. She has significantly expanded the program offering of the IYMC, enriching it with long-term international projects, strategic partnerships, and new formats of non-formal education. She is the co-author of the educational exhibition in the House on the Hill and the permanent exhibition dedicated to World War II. Her expertise and experience have a significant impact on how Krzyżowa’s historical heritage is presented and how educational activities for international youth are conducted.
The rich experience of both new Board members, their openness to change, and their deep knowledge of the organization guarantee the stability and future growth of the Foundation. This will strengthen Krzyżowa’s offering directed at educational project participants, institutional partners, tourists, and guests visiting this unique place.
Acknowledgments to the Outgoing Board Members
Along with these personnel changes, the Foundation bids farewell to individuals who have significantly contributed to its development and successes in recent years.
Dorota Krajdocha resigned from her position as a member of the Management Board effective July 1, 2026. For eight years, she was primarily responsible for the financial development of the Foundation and the modernization of its infrastructure. During this time, the Foundation's financial security increased significantly, its funding sources were expanded and diversified, and a number of vital infrastructure investments were completed. Dorota Krajdocha remains part of the Foundation's team, continuing her work as Chief Accountant, where she will keep supporting the organization with her knowledge and experience.
Dr. hab. Robert Żurek will remain a member of the Management Board until September 30, 2026, ensuring a smooth transition of duties and continuity of management, after which he will conclude his service on the Board. For over eight years, he co-formed the Foundation's Management Board, placing special emphasis on cultivating and promoting the historical heritage of Krzyżowa. He consistently highlighted the role of education, dialogue, and civic responsibility in building the resilience of democratic societies. Under his leadership, international cooperation also expanded significantly, particularly with partner organizations in Germany, becoming closer, more intensive, and highly effective.
Together with Dorota Krajdocha, he introduced modern management standards that contributed to stabilizing the organization, professionalizing its operations, and further internationalizing the Foundation's team and programs. Together with the team, they successfully guided the Foundation through major crises, such as the coronavirus pandemic and the humanitarian crisis caused by Russia's aggression against Ukraine. By welcoming refugees from Ukraine, they shaped the identity of the Krzyżowa Foundation and its partner network for years to come.
Looking to the Future
The "Krzyżowa" Foundation enters the next chapter of its history with an experienced and competent management team. Aleksandra Królak-Wąsowicz and Anna Kudarewska, working alongside the Foundation's employees, partners, and friends, will continue to fulfill its mission: supporting European dialogue, mutual understanding, as well as historical and civic education.
The new Management Board combines years of experience, a thorough understanding of the organization, and a readiness to take on new challenges, creating a solid foundation for the further development of Krzyżowa as a place of meeting, reflection, and cross-border cooperation.
