New Executive Director of Mississippi Programs
Saint Francis Ministries named Dreydan Doss its new Executive Director of Mississippi Programs in July. Saint Francis provides residential programs in Mississippi that enable adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live lives of dignity and independence.
As executive director, Doss manages the daily operations of SFM’s Mississippi programs, which include a 24-unit apartment facility, supported employment and job discovery services, and an adult day program for nearly 30 individuals – all in Picayune.
Doss brings a wealth of experience in business administration and management to his new position. Before joining SFM, he served as business manager at the LSU Health Sciences Center, Department of Surgery in New Orleans; business manager at the University of Southern Mississippi’s School of Ocean Science and Engineering at the Stennis Space Center; and contract administrator for the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
“We’re thrilled that Dreydan has joined Saint Francis,” said Darrin Sewell, vice president of residential and outpatient services. “He brings passion and compassion for those we serve, along with significant expertise in fiscal and clinical administration.
Doss earned a B.A. and an M.B.A. from Belhaven University and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Public Health in Leadership, Advocacy, and Equity from Tulane University.
“I am beyond excited to join the Saint Francis Ministries team,” said Doss. “The opportunity to work for an organization committed to providing healing and hope to children and families offers fertile ground for my passion to expand the health and well-being of people through effective health and human services. Bridgeway has a reputation for being one of the best service providers in the State of Mississippi for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I look forward to growing our services while enhancing the delivery of our high-quality care. Our hope, as always, is to create a Christ-centered environment where clients can grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually to maximize their abilities and reach their full potential.”
New Vice President of Foster Care Homes
Saint Francis Ministries announced this month that Valerie Leon has been named the nonprofit child and family services organization’s new Vice President of Foster Care Homes.
Leon brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to the job. She joined Saint Francis in 2006 as a therapist and case manager. Since then, she has held multiple positions, including Area Family Preservation Supervisor, Foster Care Homes Recruitment Supervisor, Foster Care Homes Recruiter, Family Preservation Supervisor, Reintegration Director—Wichita Region, and Regional Vice President.
“Since joining Saint Francis, Valerie has been instrumental to the success of our mission,” said Chief Programs Officer Cristian Garcia. “Her talent, experience, and deep passion for supporting children and families will be invaluable as we continue to positively impact our communities.”
Leon will lead and oversee Saint Francis foster care programs in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas in her new role.
“I am excited to continue leading in this role, and I look forward to returning to foster care homes where I spent nearly half of my 18 years with Saint Francis,” she said. “During those years, we built community partnerships while supporting our licensing specialists and recruiters in training, recruiting, and supporting foster families. This opportunity is a blessing.”
Leon earned bachelor’s degrees in sociology/business (Wichita State University) and administration of justice (Southwestern University) and holds a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Friends University.
