The Canopy Center Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Sarah Berndt has been named the organization's next Executive Director.
Sarah joined Canopy Center in 2023 as Development Director, where she has helped strengthen fundraising efforts, grow community partnerships, increase the organization's visibility, and sustain support for children and families impacted by child abuse and neglect.
Before joining Canopy Center, Sarah co-founded and led a sourcing and consulting business for 15 years, helping small and mid-sized companies build manufacturing partnerships in Southeast Asia. She developed long-term relationships, managed complex negotiations, and solved challenges across cultures and industries - experience that strengthened the strategic leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills she now brings to Canopy Center.
Sarah also serves on the boards of two disability-focused nonprofits and is driven every day by the chance to help build stronger, more compassionate communities.
Sarah also serves on the boards of two disability-focused nonprofits and is driven every day by the chance to help build stronger, more compassionate communities.
For six years, Sarah and her family served as licensed foster parents. Opening their home to children and youth transformed Sarah's perspective, deepened her understanding of the child welfare system, and provided insight into the complex challenges children and families navigate every day.
"My connection to Canopy Center began with a deep appreciation for its mission," Sarah said. "One of the things I admire most about Canopy Center is that children and families have a voice in shaping the support they receive. Our services are accessible, compassionate, and centered on each child and family's unique needs. I've seen firsthand the difference that makes. It's been a privilege to help grow support for this work over the past three years, and I'm honored to lead Canopy Center into its next chapter."
Sarah succeeds Meaghan Henry, who has served in leadership roles at Canopy Center for over twelve years, and as Executive Director since 2021. We are deeply grateful for Meaghan's dedication and the lasting impact she made on our organization and the children and families we serve.
“The Canopy Center Board has been deeply impressed by Sarah’s proven effectiveness as Development Director for the past three years, and by her vision for and commitment to our mission,” said Maggie Huston, President of the Board of Directors. “After a thorough evaluation of the needs and opportunities facing the agency, it became clear that Sarah is the right leader to serve as our next Executive Director. Our Board has full confidence in Sarah, and we’re looking forward to working together to continue to serve children and families in our community.”
As Canopy Center looks to the future, we remain committed to strengthening families, helping children heal from trauma, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. We are excited for this next chapter and look forward to continuing this important work under Sarah's leadership.
