New Chapter for USRF as Anne M. Barry Named Chair of the Board

The US Rugby Foundation has named Anne M. Barry as the new Chair of the Board—marking a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to lead the 61-year-old organization.

Barry, a longtime fixture in the rugby community, previously served as the Foundation’s CFO and Treasurer. She brings over three decades of public service leadership in Minnesota to her new role, along with a deep legacy in the sport. Barry was inducted into the US Rugby Hall of Fame in 2014 and has held leadership roles at nearly every level of the game, including as President and Treasurer of USA Rugby and President of the Minnesota Rugby Union for nearly 20 years.

Outgoing Chair Bill Fraumann expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, stating,

“Anne did a great job while serving on our Board and I am very excited to have her succeed me as Chair. She brings the experience and tools we need as we grow and enhance our support of youth rugby.”

Barry’s own playing career began with the Twin Cities Amazons, earning her spots on state and regional all-star teams. Her administrative and advocacy work has been instrumental in promoting health equity and reform throughout her public health career, which includes serving under four Minnesota governors and most recently as Director of the St. Paul Ramsey County Public Health Department.

“I am honored to take on the role of Chair for the US Rugby Foundation,” Barry said. “Rugby has been a transformative force in my life, and I am excited to work alongside my fellow board members, supporters, and the broader rugby community to expand opportunities and resources for players of all ages.”

Jon Hinkin, USRF President and CEO, added,

“Anne’s unparalleled leadership experience and lifelong dedication to the sport of rugby make her the ideal person to lead the Foundation into the future.”

A passionate advocate for systemic change, Barry also holds a Juris Doctor from Mitchell Hamline School of Law, a Master’s in Public Health Administration from the University of Minnesota, and a BA in Occupational Therapy from St. Catherine University. She continues to teach as adjunct faculty at the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health and Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions.

The US Rugby Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to growing youth rugby across the U.S., supporting grassroots development, coach and referee education, player safety, and college scholarships.