Modern Woodmen board selects Shea Doyle as next president and CEO

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — [Aug. 21, 2026] — The board of directors of Modern Woodmen of America has selected Shea Doyle as the organization's next president and chief executive officer, effective June 1, 2027.

The appointment follows a comprehensive succession-planning and executive-selection process conducted over the past year. Throughout the process, the board evaluated the leadership experience, strategic vision and capabilities necessary to lead Modern Woodmen through its next chapter while continuing to serve members, representatives and communities.

After a fulfilling career, President and CEO Jerald J. Lyphout will retire at the end of May. To ensure a smooth and orderly transition, Lyphout and Doyle will work closely together over the next several months to transfer leadership responsibilities.

The board also recognizes and thanks Lyphout for his more than four decades of dedicated service and leadership to Modern Woodmen, since joining the organization in 1983. Throughout his career, he has helped strengthen the organization through his leadership, operational expertise, strategic vision and unwavering commitment to Modern Woodmen's mission.

"Jerry's leadership and service have helped shape Modern Woodmen into the strong organization it is today," said Sandra L. Stosz, chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee of the Modern Woodmen Board of Directors. "On behalf of the board, we thank him for his more than four decades of dedication to our members, representatives, employees and communities, and for the lasting legacy he leaves.”

"Selecting the organization’s next president and CEO is among the most important responsibilities entrusted to the board," Stosz added. "After a thorough and deliberate evaluation process, the board determined that Shea is exceptionally well-qualified to lead Modern Woodmen into its next chapter. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our mission, our members and our people. His extensive leadership experience, operational expertise and deep understanding of the organization position him to honor our proud legacy while helping shape an even stronger future."

"It has been an honor to serve Modern Woodmen throughout my career," said Lyphout. "Shea's leadership, experience and deep understanding of our organization make him well-prepared to lead the organization. I look forward to supporting him during the transition and am confident Modern Woodmen's future is in very capable hands."

Doyle currently serves as national secretary, chief operating officer and executive vice president for Modern Woodmen of America. He joined the organization in 1997 and has held leadership positions of increasing responsibility. He also has served as an ex officio member of the organization's board of directors since 2023.