First giving honor to God from whom all blessings flow, and then to our ancestors on whose shoulders we stand, for if they had not been, we would not be. These words, shared by Mama Frances Jarnegan on countless occasions, continue to empower me and give me strength and courage to “come in my own...

Deaconess Community, It is my honor to join Deaconess Foundation as the interim president and chief executive officer. I appreciate the warm and encouraging welcome messages. During this period of transition, I will support the Foundation’s Board and Executive Search Committee and guide the remarkable staff as we press forward with clear vision and strategy...

Deaconess Community, In the final days of any worthwhile effort one is given to reflection. The challenge of working toward a mission, purpose or goal as significant and enduring as child well-being, is that there is always unfinished business. Successes and failures battle for space in the mind. Emotions ebb and flow, especially in times...

Deaconess Friends & Partners, For the last nine years, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson has served the St. Louis region and its children as the president and chief executive of Deaconess Foundation. In a few short weeks, Starsky will depart Deaconess Foundation to lead the nation’s strongest, most effective voice for children, the Children’s Defense Fund....