Sunnybrook Children’s Home announces the appointment of Ron Veazey, current Director of Advancement, as Interim Executive Director, effective immediately. This leadership transition follows the recent resignation of Myrle Grate, who faithfully served Sunnybrook’s mission for over a decade.
Ron brings deep knowledge of Sunnybrook’s ministry, values, and operations, and will provide steady leadership during this time of transition. The Board of Directors will conduct a national search to identify the next permanent Executive Director who will help guide Sunnybrook’s future and continue our commitment to serving children and families with excellence.
Board President Dwayne Blaylock shared, “We are confident in Ron’s ability to lead Sunnybrook during this important season. His passion for our mission and his experience with the organization make him well-suited to serve in this interim role as we thoughtfully pursue our next permanent leader.”
We are grateful for the prayers, support, and encouragement of our community as Sunnybrook moves forward. Updates will be shared as the search progresses.
Key Information & FAQs
Q: Who is serving as Sunnybrook’s Interim Executive Director?
The Board has appointed Ron Veazey, our current Director of Advancement, as Interim Executive Director. Ron is a trusted leader who knows our mission, values, and operations well. Working closely with myself and the executive committee of the board, Ron will provide steady guidance during this transition while we continue to provide the high quality services to those we serve.
Q: What led to the leadership transition at Sunnybrook?
After more than six years of dedicated leadership, Myrle Grate stepped down as Executive Director on Friday, July 18, 2025. We are deeply grateful for his commitment and service to Sunnybrook and to the children and families we serve. Myrle has accepted a new leadership opportunity and leaves on strong, positive terms. His decision was made thoughtfully and with full transparency to the Board. This transition is not the result of any organizational or financial concerns.
Q: What is the plan for finding a new Executive Director?
Sunnybrook will conduct a national search for our next permanent Executive Director, supported by the Board and outside advisors. This thorough and thoughtful process will ensure we find the right leader—one who embodies our mission, demonstrates strong leadership, and is deeply committed to serving vulnerable youth.
Q: How will this transition impact Sunnybrook’s programs and services?
Sunnybrook remains fully committed to our mission. Our dedicated staff and leadership team continue their vital work with no disruption to services for the children and families we serve. All programs, services, and support for youth will continue without interruption, with the Board actively guiding this transition.
Q: How can supporters stay informed or get involved?
We’re grateful for your continued prayers, encouragement, and support during this time of transition. If you have questions or would like to assist by sharing news of our search or referring potential candidates, please contact our Administrative Office at (601) 856-6555.
The Legacy of Sunnybrook Lives On
“We are confident in Ron’s ability to lead Sunnybrook during this important season. His passion for our mission and his experience with the organization make him well-suited to serve in this interim role as we thoughtfully pursue our next permanent leader.”
Dwayne blaylock, board president
Sunnybrook Receives Top Honor as 2024 Best Non-Profit
Since refocusing its mission in 2019, Sunnybrook has been a leader in helping transitional-age youth thrive—surpassing state and national benchmarks as we prepare young adults for life beyond foster care.
Honoring a Legacy, Embracing What’s Next.
As the search for Sunnybrook’s next Executive Director moves forward, we invite you to stay connected. Updates will be shared here on our website, across social media, and directly with our email subscribers.
Your prayers, encouragement, and input mean the world to us! Please don’t hesitate to contact us, and check back often as this exciting new chapter in Sunnybrook’s storied ministry unfolds.
Latest Posts
- Sunnybrook Children’s Home Welcomes Interim Executive Director; National Search to Be Conducted
- Fostering Hope 5K Unites Community to Support Mississippi’s Foster Youth
- Sunnybrook Announces Leadership Transition
- Why Foster Youth Age Out, Not Up
- Planting a ‘Garden of Hope’: How One Eagle Scout Candidate is Helping Residents See Their Worth