WS Chronicle

Maurice D. Ware, a seasoned health care professional and educator, has been named CEO of The Children’s Home, effective May 1, 2013.

“After an extensive national search to find the ideal leader of our diverse and changing organization that serves children and families in need, I am extremely pleased that Maurice Ware will join The Children’s Home,” Board Chair Tom Lambeth said. “His experience and expertise in the many areas that make up our complex and impactful human service programs fit our needs incredibly well.”

Ware was born in Albion, Mich. and earned an undergraduate degree in marketing and management from Northwood University in Midland, Mich. He earned his Master of Arts degree in counselor education/counseling psychology from Western Michigan University.

He began his professional career in 1994 in Albion as a youth specialist at Starr Commonwealth. He earned several promotions during his tenure at Starr, having served last as an assistant director. He also served as director of Residential Services for Universal Health Services (UHS). In 2000, he was named assistant principal of Albion Senior High School. In 2001, he began his career in Battle Creek (Mich.) Public Schools, as a grade principal at Battle Creek Central High School. He was then promoted to principal of South Hill Academy, an alternative school serving students from grades six through 12. Ware was later named director of Battle Creek’s Alternative Education, while still serving as a principal. He served as executive director of Educational Support Services for the Battle Creek Public Schools, before accepting the job at The Children’s Home, a licensed child placing agency for family foster care and therapeutic foster care and a licensed adoption agency specializing in foster-to-adopt placements.

Ware replaces Linda Davis, who grew up at The Children’s Home while her father was its successful school principal and football coach. Davis, a former Winston-Salem Police chief, has served as interim CEO since January 2012.

“I was impressed with the breadth and depth of Maurice’s experience,” Davis said. “He is a leader with high energy and is innovative in his approach, and I look forward to welcoming him to campus.”

Ware said, “I am eager to join The Children’s Home family and the Winston-Salem community. I look forward to combining my experience in all areas of mental health, treatment and education for the benefit of the children who come to The Children’s Home. I look forward to maintaining and growing our relationships with the Winston-Salem community and building on the rich heritage of The Children’s Home as we move to a very exciting future.”