JACKSON HOLE, WYO – How do you replace a legend? You hire from within.
The Teton Youth and Family Services Board of Directors was faced with finding the next Bruce Burkland after the incredibly popular executive director announced his retirement in June.
The Board announced today that Sarah Cavallaro has been selected Executive Director effective January 1, 2019. Cavallaro started at TYFS in 2001 working as childcare staff at Red Top Meadows. For the past seven years she has been the Director of Operations where she worked closely with Burkland.
“Bruce has been a great mentor to me and I feel honored to work with such a great team of individuals to ensure our services for children and families are always available to our community” stated Sarah Cavallaro.
Burkland’s retirement comes after 40 years working with children and families to help them build and repair relationships and find their way to fulfilling and constructive lives. He worked closely with board and staff to ensure a stable and successful transition.
“The successful outcomes for kids and families at TYFS can be attributed to the longstanding culture of the organization,” said Ruth Ann Petroff, Board President. “We are excited to be in the position of promoting an Executive Director to carry on strong continuity of that culture, while bringing in a new generation of fresh ideas.”
Tom Concannon, a 29-year TYFS veteran, will continue to run Red Top Meadows Residential Treatment Center as the Director.
With 28 years on the TYFS staff, Chris Moll, will serve as the organization’s Director of Accreditation and Licensing, working alongside Cavallaro to ensure the quality and the impact of programs remains excellent.
Jeremy Silcox, with a tenure of 25 years at TYFS, will continue his role as the Van Vleck House Director with added duties related to coordinating professional development and training opportunities for staff across the organization.
After 13 years of service at TYFS, Ben Brettell moves into the position of Director of the Hirschfield Center for Children, where he will oversee the Family Advocate Project and the Court Diversion Program.
Martina Hansen, Director of Finance and Operations, is the newest addition, joining TYFS after 12 years working in the Finance Department of the Teton Science Schools.
“Bruce’s absence will be deeply felt by all, but the Board is thrilled to move forward with more than 100 years combined experience and leadership to bring renewed strength and depth to the organization,” said Petroff.
TYFS will honor Burkland’s work mid-January during a community celebration event.
