Our Leadership

dotted line

MCH Senior Leadership

IMG_3680

Gretchen Cook

Interim Chief Executive Officer

gcook@mchms.org  |  601.853.5000 ext 1242

Gretchen W. Cook is a native Floridian who fell in love with Mississippi on a trip to the state in 1986.  She worked for Belhaven University for 16 years as both library director and accreditation officer.  She has long been publisher of a number of parenting-focused magazines distributed in the state, from Parents & Kids, to Mothers & Babies, Greetings and the College Planner.

She began volunteering at Methodist Children’s Homes of Mississippi and became an advocate for the organization, leading to her eventual employment as a member of the senior leadership team and later appointment as interim CEO.

Headshot of Bob Schroeder

Bob Schroeder

Director of Facilities and Technology

bschroeder@mchms.org  |  601-853-5000 ext 1750

Untitled design (2)

Jessica McArthur Senter

Director of Development

MCH Communications

jsenter@mchms.org  |  601-853-5000 ext 1255

Keisha holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Public Health. She brings a broad program and operational leadership perspective that will enhance our vision “to become a national leader in providing innovative therapeutic services”.

Keisha works with the Senior Leadership Team to manage year-round planning, execution and quality control of program activities, organizational administration and strategic priorities. Keisha provides strategic direction to the Program staff, communicates and demonstrates the organization’s mission, goals, and culture. Keisha leads the staff in creating an inclusive trauma informed environment. She is responsible for the oversight of the Clinical Program and Services, Residential Program, Foster Care Program, Campus Life  and Transitional Living Programs as well as the Crisis Stabilization Unit. The first of its kind to serve as a residential treatment facility for minors who have experienced complex trauma. Keisha is a Jackson native and enjoys spending time with her family. 

Untitled design (1)

Scott Smith

Director of Finance and Accounting

ssmith@mchms.org  |  601.853.5000 ext 1241

Scott has spent over 30 years working with a variety of companies including manufacturing, education and non-profit organizations before joining MCH as Director of Finance. He is a graduate of Mississippi College and is a Certified Public Accountant. He is excited to help children and families of Mississippi.

A life-long Mississippian, Scott and his wife Renee reside in Clinton. They are the parents of twins and have two grandchildren. Some of Scott’s interests include classic rock, gospel music and barbecue along with being “Papi” to the grandkids.

Bob supervises multiple departments at Methodist Children’s Homes, including property, fleet, I.T., security, food service and equipment. Having served at other non-profits for nearly 13 years, he understands the unique set of challenges working in the non-profit sector presents. Bob brings over 30 years of experience in property maintenance and management to MCH.

Originally from Metairie, LA, Bob is a lifelong fan of both the Saints and LSU. He enjoys Cajun foods, all types of music and being Grandpa to 6 wonderful girls. He and his wife Darlene live in Brandon.

MCH Leadership

Lekiesha Thomas Headshot

LaKiesha Thomas

Residential Services Director

l.thomas@mchms.org  |  601.853.5000 ext 1801

As Director of Residential Services, LaKiesha oversees the day to day operations of all the Therapeutic Group Homes at Methodist Children’s Homes. She has nearly 20 years of experience working with at risk and underprivileged youth in residential treatment facilities, public schools, and correctional settings.  In 2013, LaKiesha assisted with opening the first and only unit for juvenile offenders in the state of Mississippi at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, and was the first Alcohol & Drug Counselor hired to begin providing services to the youthful offenders. In 2017, she assisted with starting the MYPAC Program at Methodist Children’s Homes and was the first Wraparound Facilitator hired to begin providing wraparound services to the youth. 
LaKiesha believes in carrying out the MCH mission of providing hope and healing to hurting children in Mississippi through Jesus Christ, and strives to make MCH Residential Program a beacon of light for each youth who enters one of our Group Homes. 
Born and raised in Jackson, MS, LaKiesha received her education from Mississippi University for Women and Jackson State University. In her spare time, LaKiesha continues to be of service to youth by being a Sunday school teacher for the teens at her church as well as the youth choir director. LaKiesha lives in Jackson, MS with her son Brayden. 
Phaedre Cole

Josie Higgins-Latham

Director of Foster Care

jhiggins-latham@mchms.org  |  601-853-5000 ext 1600

Michael has been a local licensed Pastor with the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodists Church for four years. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Local Pastors License from Millsaps College’s Center for Ministry. He is in pursuit of a Master of Divinity.

Michael is happily married with two daughters. 

Become a part of the Methodist Children’s Homes legacy