Kim Skidmore will be returning to the Children’s Center as our new Executive Director
The Board of Directors of the Fannin County Children’s Center is pleased to announce that Kim Skidmore will be the next Executive Director of the local nonprofit that has been serving abused and neglected children for more than thirty years.
Soon after Skidmore graduated from Austin College in 2008, she came to work for the Fannin County Children’s Center as a CAC Program Specialist. In that role she learned how to do forensic interviews, family advocacy and multidisciplinary team coordination as part of the Children’s Advocacy Center. After nearly two years of service, Skidmore left the Children’s Center to move back to Dallas, where she grew up. She worked for another nonprofit for two years and then became an investigator for Child Protective Services. She eventually ended up at the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center where she resumed her work as a forensic interviewer for more than nine years. She rose in the ranks of this work, becoming a leader and trainer in the field.
“While it is hard to see Sandy retire, the Board of Directors is thrilled to have Kim join our team,” said Bill Wilson, Children’s Center Board President. “She brings a wealth of Children’s Advocacy Center experience to the position, and she is a recognized expert in her field. Kim’s excitement is infectious, and she has a strong connection to the mission of the Center. Also, I want to thank the FCCC leadership and board members who served on the Search Committee. Their time commitment and passion for a thorough evaluation process is very much appreciated.”
“I feel so lucky to have come full circle and to be invited back to a community that ignited my passion for this work fifteen years ago,” said Skidmore. “I feel humbled to continue the work of Sandy’s legacy and feel honored to take the helm of such a growing community.”
After more than 22 years as the Center’s Executive Director, Sandy Barber is retiring effective June 30. “I am thrilled that Kim is returning to where it all began for her. She has a passion for serving kids from hard places as well as the skills, experience and knowledge to take the lead at the Children’s Center. It makes it easier for me to pass the baton on to the next director knowing that this center will be in very good and capable hands.”
Skidmore will start work on June 12, which will give her three weeks to learn from her predecessor. Even after Barber has left full time employment at the Center, plans include a consulting contract with the center so Barber can continue to support Skidmore as she grows into the leadership position. “My goal is to support Kim to the best of my ability to ensure a smooth transition,” said Barber.
The Board of Directors and staff of the Children’s Center will be hosting a Meet and Greet reception for Kim Skidmore on Wednesday, June 21. All are welcome to come and go from 4:30 to 6 pm at the center at 112 W. 5th in Bonham.
The Board of Directors and staff of the Children’s Center will also be hosting a Retirement Party for Sandy Barber on Wednesday, July 5. All are welcome to join the celebration from 4:30 – 6:00 pm at the Roy Floyd Community Center at 1100 W. 5th in Bonham.
