April 26, 2023 (CHARLOTTE, NC) – Crittenton announced today that Chief Executive Officer Diane Thompson will retire effective December 31, 2023. Thompson has served in her current role since 2014, and prior to that for 17 years as Program Administrator, where she oversaw the implementation of program support services and outreach.
During Thompson’s tenure as Chief Executive Officer, she played a critical role in expanding Crittenton’s services and reach. Thompson managed the design and building of a new facility, extended the programming offered to clients, and launched a $3.5 million capital campaign.
William Ryans, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Crittenton said, “I would like to recognize and honor the impact of Diane’s steadfast dedication to the mission of our organization. Through her role as Chief Executive Officer, Diane has led with warmth and grace while navigating challenges and upholding the integrity of Crittenton’s values. She inspires confidence in our residents and team and truly exudes the mission of our organization. We wish Diane all the best following her retirement and look forward to continuing her legacy at Crittenton.”
Crittenton has engaged executive search firm Coleman Lew Canny Bowen to assist in a nationwide search for Thompson’s successor and plans to name the new Chief Executive Officer by July 2023. Thompson and her successor will work together until the end of the year to ensure no disruption to programming or services during the transition.
“It has been an honor to work with an organization that provides adolescents and women in Charlotte with the necessary support to move forward in their lives. I am leaving with full confidence that the dedication of the staff and the leadership of the Board of Directors will ensure the continued success of both Crittenton and every young woman we serve. I look forward to working with the new Chief Executive Officer so that Crittenton’s mission will continue to be met with the same high standard of care that has set our organization apart,” says Thompson.
About Crittenton
Founded in 1903, Crittenton has strived to serve and empower young women and girls in need of critical services by providing a safe place to live, counseling, medical and health care, parenting support, adoption support, maternity programs for single pregnant adolescents and women, mother-infant residential foster care program, residential foster care, aftercare services, and alumnae events. Since its inception, Crittenton has assisted over 40,000 adolescents, women, and children, working to break intergenerational cycles of abuse, neglect, low education, trauma and promote steps toward self-sufficiency and healing.
