Murphy-Harpst Children’s Center, an independent not-for-profit organization that delivers innovative clinical, therapeutic, and residential services to foster children across the state of Georgia, announced today the appointment of Linda Young as Chair of its Board of Directors. A seasoned leader in education and a passionate advocate for children in foster care, Young brings more than 35 years of experience supporting at-risk youth and a deep commitment to Murphy-Harpst’s mission.

Young succeeds outgoing board chair Martha Carroll, who served six years, leading major fundraising initiatives, the annual gala, and board development efforts. Carroll will remain on the board to support Murphy-Harpst’s upcoming capital campaign.

Young has devoted her career to teaching, serving as director of The Preschool at Peachtree Road UMC for 21 years, and advocating for children’s educational and social development. Her involvement with Murphy-Harpst began over three decades ago through her preschool’s fundraising efforts. Since that time, she has helped secure critical support for the organization while bringing in new donors and strategic partners. Young formally joined the board in 2018.

“I’m honored to take on the role of board chair at such a pivotal time for Murphy-Harpst,” said Young. “I hope to engage our board members more deeply, expand initiatives like the Evolve program, and support the growth of Murphy-Harpst Academy. Most importantly, I want young people in foster care to know they are loved, supported, and empowered to succeed. I look forward to getting to work and building on the foundation of excellence that has guided this wonderful organization for more than a century.”

“Linda’s decades of experience, her hands-on dedication to children, and her passion for foster care make her an outstanding leader for our board,” said Scott Merritt, president and CEO of Murphy-Harpst. “Her proven track record in fundraising and her ability to engage key community leaders will help strengthen our programs and expand our impact. With Linda’s leadership, I’m confident our board will continue to drive meaningful growth, attract new supporters, and broaden the reach of our services for children and families who need us most.”

As board chair, Young will focus on strengthening Murphy-Harpst’s presence in the community, cultivating relationships with key donors and influencers, encouraging more families to foster and adopt, and advancing educational and transitional programs that help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Her vision also includes expanding the Evolve program, supporting older youth transitioning from foster care with life skills and resources, and continuing to elevate the organization’s century-long legacy of child advocacy.

In addition to Young’s appointment, Murphy-Harpst welcomes several new members to its board, including Lisa Rayam, host of Morning Edition on WABE (NPR) in Atlanta; Necole Merritt, a marketing and communications executive; Eric Cumming, secretary of the Cumming Family Foundation; and Carolyn Stephen, District Superintendent, North West District North Georgia Conference, United Methodist Church.

For more information, please visit https://murphyharpst.org/.