LONDON, Ontario — (CANADIAN CHRISTIAN NEWS SERVICE) — Compassion Canada’s Board today announced that the organization’s longtime President and CEO, Barry Slauenwhite, will retire effective fall 2019. Slauenwhite will continue his leadership of the Christian child-focused charity as a diligent process to choose his successor continues. Once the decision is made, he will be available to advise the incoming leader during a time of transition.
“I came to this decision several years ago, but as retirement draws closer, I’m emotional about moving on from a role that has been a great privilege, adventure and passion for so much of my life,” Slauenwhite said. “What makes me most proud and grateful is that Compassion Canada has never wavered from our unique commitment to being Christ-centered, child-focused and church-based. I’m excited to pass on that torch to a new leader with fresh vision, talent and energy.”
Slauenwhite, who pastored churches in eastern Canada, joined Compassion more than thirty years ago. In 1983, the Canadian office had eight staff and Canadians sponsored 4,000 children. Most supporters lived in Ontario. Slauenwhite extended the organization’s reach nationwide, and today, more than 100 staff serve upwards of 110,000 children through its network of sponsors coast to coast.
Compassion Canada’s Board of Directors began the search for Slauenwhite’s successor two years ago, when Board Chair Rev. Ian Lawson appointed Dr. Marie Geschwandtner to lead a four-person search committee. While this committee is responsible for coordinating the search process, all members of the Board are responsible for choosing a successor. The Board is currently considering a strong panel of qualified candidates and expects to announce their decision before June 2018.
“The Board is thankful to Barry for his faithful leadership over more than two decades,” said Ian Lawson, Board Chair. “He has steered Compassion into growth and stability, even through times of economic uncertainty. Compassion’s reputation for integrity and impact attracts outstanding supporters and capable staff, who together give vulnerable children the chance to build healthy, hopeful, meaningful lives.”
Slauenwhite’s future title will be President Emeritus. Beyond retirement, he will be available to continue as a speaker for Compassion and on behalf of children living in poverty.
Additional notes:
- Slauenwhite’s advocacy for the poor has brought him to more than 60 countries.
- He speaks regularly at churches and schools across Canada and internationally.
- Slauenwhite serves as a board member for the Christian Churches Network of London. He co-founded the International Alliance for Missions and the Servant Ministry Network of London.
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