Eastern State President & CEO Dr. Kerry Sautner Named Among Philadelphia Business Journal’s 2025 Most Admired CEOs

Philadelphia, PA (Nov. 3, 2025) — Eastern State is proud to announce that Dr. Kerry Sautner, President and CEO, has been named one of the Philadelphia Business Journal’s 2025 Most Admired CEOs.

Recognized for leadership rooted in transformation, operational stabilization, culture development, and diversity initiatives, this year’s honorees represent excellence across industries including nonprofit, technology, and banking. The Philadelphia Business Journal’s editorial board selected 32 leaders from more than 100 nominations, evaluating each candidate’s professional achievements, community contributions, and influence on the region.

Since assuming leadership of Eastern State, Dr. Sautner has advanced the organization’s mission to preserve America’s first penitentiary and deepen public understanding of the criminal justice system. Under her guidance, the institution has expanded its public programming, workforce development initiatives, and partnerships focused on civic learning, reentry, and justice education — cementing its role as both a historic landmark and an educational catalyst for change.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized among this year’s Most Admired CEOs and to share this distinction with so many inspiring leaders across the region,” said Dr. Kerry Sautner, President and CEO of Eastern State. “This recognition reflects the collective work of our team, who bring passion and purpose to advancing Eastern State’s mission every day. Together, we are using history as a platform to foster dialogue and inspire a more just future.”

The 2025 honorees will be celebrated at a special event on December 9 at Lilah at the Weitzman on Independence Mall and featured in the Philadelphia Business Journal’s December 12 edition.

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Media Contact

Abby Kleman
Cashman & Associates
[email protected]
M: 302-668-4781

About Eastern State

Eastern State preserves America’s first penitentiary, advancing public understanding of the criminal justice system and its impact on the lives of those affected by it, to inspire a more just future. For more information, visit EasternState.org and follow Eastern State on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube.