After a thorough leadership transition process, the Board of Directors of Sunshine Services is pleased to announce that Kelsie Crittendon has been selected for the position of Executive Director in Training, effective immediatley. She will assume the full role of Executive Director in 2026.

“Among a strong pool of candidates, Kelsie’s deep institutional knowledge, passion for our mission, and proven leadership made her the right choice for this moment in our history,” said Mark Roberts, Board Chair of Sunshine Services. “She understands our programs from the inside out and brings strategic insight, collaborative spirit, and the drive to lead us into the next chapter.”

Kelsie joined Sunshine Services in March 2017 and has held a wide range of leadership positions, including Director of Human Resources, Communications Coordinator, Director of Strategic Partnerships, and Board Member. Her accomplishments include:

• Leading the agency’s rebranding initiative

• Launching the Enabling Technology Department

• Spearheading the ECF waiver approval, expanding access to critical services

• Growing fundraising efforts, including laying the foundation for robust annual giving, legacy giving, grant strategy, and planning signature fundraising events

“I am deeply honored to step into this role,” said Crittendon. “Sunshine Services has been my professional home for years. More importantly, its mission is personal to me: helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live their lives to the fullest. I’m ready to lead with heart, accountability, and vision — alongside this incredible team.”

A mission-driven and strategic leader, Kelsie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of Memphis and a Master’s in Strategic and Digital Communications from the University of Tennessee. 

As Sunshine Services enters this next phase, Kelsie will work closely with the Board, staff, and community partners to build on the agency’s long-standing legacy — steering toward a future grounded in inclusion, innovation, and impact.

As we step into an exciting new chapter, I’m thrilled to share the positive changes and growth unfolding within our organization. Most notably, we’ve rebranded as Sunshine Services, a name that reflects both our rich history and our forward-thinking commitment. This change embodies our mission to bring light, support, and opportunity to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Along with our new name, we’ve seen remarkable growth across all our service areas. Our Residential Program continues to expand with the opening of new supported living homes, and our Supported Employment Program has forged new partnerships, offering meaningful job opportunities for those we support. Additionally, our Community Program has become more active than ever, with individuals engaging in volunteer work, participating in recreational activities, and developing new skills. Every service we offer is designed to empower each individual to live a life of independence, inclusion, and empowerment, based on their own vision of happiness and life satisfaction.

I’m incredibly proud of the dedication demonstrated by our staff during this period of change. Whether adapting to new technologies, taking on leadership roles, or continuing to deliver exceptional services, their resilience and passion are evident. Together, we’re shaping a bright future for Sunshine Services and the individuals we’re privileged to support.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we move forward into 2025!

Amy Stiles – Executive Director