The Governing Board of Directors for the United Methodist Children’s Home (UMCH) in Mt. Vernon, Illinois has announced the selection of the next President/CEO of that agency.  Board Chairman, Dr. Billy G. Dixon issued the following statement:  “Effective October 1, 2009, Mr. Gary L. Lemmon will fill the position of President/CEO of UMCH.”  

     “It is quite clear that Gary Lemmon's dedication, knowledge, and leadership has been able to maintain the reputation and respect that UMCH enjoys.” says Dr. Dixon.

     The UMCH Board of Directors conducted a national search to fill the position vacated by the previous President/CEO Clete Winkelmann.    The selection process was very carefully structured and resulted in more than 30 applicants from throughout the United States.  In addition to spending many hours interviewing candidates and reviewing their credentials, the Search Committee also took into consideration the opinions of the UMCH staff as they made their selection.

     Dr. Dixon noted that, “while it was quite time consuming, we feel we have selected a person with a depth of knowledge and experience in the clinical aspects of our agency's responsibilities, an individual whose leadership style is one which fosters respect and commitment on the part of the entire agency staff, and an individual who has a deep and abiding personal commitment to God and to the clients which UMCH serves.”

     In accepting the appointment, Mr. Lemmon stated that he intends to continue and build upon the excellent services already provided by the agency.  Specifically, he indicated that he plans to enhance the clinical services provided to UMCH residential and Transitional Living Program recipients, expand community and outpatient programming, and to offer professional trainings and consultation.  He stated that his goal is for UMCH to become the premier “go-to” agency for services to children and youth in Southern Illinois. 

     Mr. Lemmon has over 35 years professional experience in various child welfare and mental health services including the past 21 years in private practice.  For the past six months he has served as Interim President/CEO at UMCH.