Mara Duckens will step into the role of executive director of St. Francis Children’s Center on Oct. 5, the education-based nonprofit organization announced on Tuesday.
The center, which caters to families in southeastern Wisconsin, specializes in early childhood education as well as programming for long-term youth support, therapy and psychological services.
Duckens has more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit management and, prior to accepting her new leadership position, was associate executive director of COA Youth & Family Centers – focused on early childhood development, youth development and community development.
During her time at COA Youth & Family Centers, Duckens managed operations for the agency and helped guide the design and construction of a child care center on the city’s near west side. Before serving as associate executive director, she was responsible for fundraising, communications and public relations for the organization and also headed a $5.8 million capital campaign to back new facilities and the creation of an endowment fund.
Duckens’ career in nonprofit management has also included work for the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee and the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center.
Kelly Miller, board chair of St. Francis Children’s Center, pointed to Duckens reputation for being “collaborative, forward-looking, passionate and curious” as a strength that will support the organization moving forward.
“Her wealth of experience, energy and enthusiasm will help St. Francis Children’s Center move forward in its mission to ensure that all children, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities, have the care and support needed to succeed,” Miller said in a statement.
At St. Francis Children’s Center, Duckens will manage center programming and services along with the organization’s financing, marketing, development and community engagement initiatives.
“Creating life-enhancing opportunities for children in our community is what I am most passionate about, and I am excited to bring this commitment to St. Francis Children’s Center,” she said.
The center is located at 6700 N. Port Washington Road in Milwaukee.
