Dear Friends: 

It is with profound gratitude and some sadness that I share my plan to retire in 2026. My gratitude is for the life-changing opportunity I have had to be part of the leadership team of Child and Family Services (CFS) for the past 25 years; I’m also sad to be leaving the good work and extraordinary people who do it. I will miss it all. But it’s time to say goodbye while the mind and body are still working well (relatively) to do some other things. That part is exciting to contemplate! 

CFS is in a great place—clinically, financially, administratively, and community reputation. These are all standards by which we measure a respected, successful nonprofit organization. We have gifted, committed, experienced board and staff. We are preparing for another 3-year CARF accreditation review in February 2026, assuring our stakeholders of our commitment to best practices across our organization. We have responded in smart, healthy ways to the uncertainties of our environment. We have some money in the bank. And most importantly, we continue to walk alongside children, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges, helping them access resources and their own strengths to heal and grow. I’m so proud of all people here and the roles they play in advancing the mission and vision of CFS in the community and our region. The Board of Directors has begun a thoughtful transition process, and I look forward to helping in every way I can to assure a smooth succession. 

I’m so grateful to each of you for the ways you have helped CFS, our team, our clients, and me personally to thrive even amidst complicated, challenging work. Our community is the better for all your efforts, and I know you will help take this fine organization into its next chapter. We say YES to CFS! 

With heartfelt gratitude,