Thank you Shefali for your dedication and commitment to CRY. We will miss you A warm welcome to Sandeep!
Organizational Announcement
Dear Friends and Partners,
We are pleased to share an important leadership update at CRY America.
Effective 2 February 2026, Sandeep Bathala joined CRY America as our new Executive Director. Sandeep brings over 25 years of experience in the non-profit and social impact sector, with deep expertise in programme leadership, organisational strengthening, and building strategic partnerships. Her leadership is grounded in strong values and a clear commitment to advancing social impact—qualities that align closely with CRY America’s mission and vision.
Following a thoughtful and rigorous search process, we are confident that Sandeep is well positioned to lead CRY America into its next phase of growth and impact. In her role, she will provide overall strategic and operational leadership, working closely with the team, the Board, and our extended community of supporters and advisors.
We would also like to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to Shefali Sunderlal for her leadership and stewardship during her tenure. Her contributions have been instrumental in ensuring organisational stability and in strengthening CRY America’s foundation as a trusted social impact organisation. We are grateful for her dedication and service.
Sandeep will be based in Washington, DC, and the transition will be supported through a structured handover to ensure continuity and a smooth changeover. We remain firmly committed to our programmes, partnerships, and accountability to the children and communities we serve.
CRY America’s work has always been strengthened by the trust and engagement of partners like you. We look forward to continuing this journey together and to deepening our collective impact under Sandeep’s leadership.
With gratitude and optimism,
Shekhar Yerramilli
CRY America Trustee & Treasurer
Shefali’s Message to CRY America Supporters
Dear CRY America Supporters,
I’ve handed over my CEO role to Sandeep Bathala on February 2 and will continue to serve CRY America in the position of President till March 31. I will be working closely with Sandeep & the Board to ensure a smooth transition. Wishing Sandeep great success & happiness in her new role as ED of CRY America!
I’ve given 35 years of my unwavering loyalty to CRY, with an inner need to strive for what is true & right. Leading the Grants function as CRY Program Director from 1992-2002 was a truly rewarding experience. In 2005, I came to the US to set up CRY America with a 12 year old child & 2 suitcases. The power of collective action prevailed!
I’m privileged to have worked with so many wonderful people – my colleagues, donors, volunteers, project partners, media, supporters – and I look back with so much gratitude.
As I leave CRY, I will be taking many memories of you with me. I’ll remember the many successful events organized, many successful projects supported and the thousands of children who have benefitted from our collective efforts.
I will remember our shared joys, as well as our struggles. Thank you for your appreciation, but mostly for your support & trust in me that I will always do the right thing for CRY, for our donors, volunteers, supporters and the children we serve. Thank you for being an important part of my life’s journey.
With gratitude,
Shefali Sunderlal
President, CRY America
Sandeep’s Message
Thank you for the warm welcome. I am truly honored to join this community and am grateful for the time and energy you each contribute in service of our mission.
I also want to thank Shefali for her leadership of the organization. The foundation she has built – and the commitment of volunteers and donors like you — has helped CRY America create meaningful impact for children and communities.
As I step into this role, I look forward to learning from you and partnering together as we continue advancing our shared mission. Your passion and dedication are central to the work we do.
Thank you again for the warm welcome. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the weeks ahead.
With appreciation,
Sandeep Bathala
Executive Director, CRY America
