Local Planned Parenthood names new leader

A top official from the Center for Reproductive Rights in New York will take the helm of Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri.

The agency announced Wednesday that Laura McQuade will replace Peter Brownlie, who retired after leading the abortion provider through a tumulturous time during the last 15 years. The Overland Park-based abortion provider, one of three in Kansas, had been led by Ron Ellifrits on an interim basis.

For the last six years, McQuade worked as chief operating officer and excutive vice president of the Center for Reproductive Rights, which advocates for abortion.

McQuade, 46, is credited with doubling the center’s budget and staff during the last six years.

McQuade is scheduled to start at Planned Parenthood by mid-July.

Brad Cooper, bcooper@kcstar.com

This story was originally published June 4, 2014 at 2:11 PM with the headline "Local Planned Parenthood names new leader."