MONTGOMERY – VOICES for Alabama’s Children, the state’s leading research, policy and advocacy organization for children, is pleased to announce Collier Tynes as its new CEO, effective November 1, 2021. Tynes comes to VOICES with experience in the public and nonprofit sectors as the previous Chief of Staff to Alabama First Lady Dianne Bentley as well as Chief of Staff at Gateway. Gateway is Birmingham’s first and oldest child and family services agency, with a 130-year-old legacy of innovation in foster care, family counseling, and trauma-healing services.
Regarding Tynes’ appointment, Judd Harwood, President of the Board of Directors stated, “It is said that successful leaders possess the qualities of insight, determination, passion and vision. We clearly see those qualities in Ms. Tynes and as Board President, I am pleased to share the enthusiasm of our entire team in her selection. We believe Collier will be a knowledgeable, crucial voice and leader for Alabama’s children and families.”
“I am honored the Board has entrusted me to lead VOICES as we research, develop, and advocate policies that strengthen Alabama children and families,” says Tynes. “Though I have walked the halls of the legislature, my experience serving Alabama’s most vulnerable children with Gateway’s courageous staff has forever shaped my heart and perspective. As we begin this exciting chapter at VOICES, I am ready to ensure subject-matter experts and providers are always at the table as we assess the data, prioritize the core policy needs, leverage our network, and work with lawmakers. Together, we’ll move the needle for children’s health, education, safety, and wellbeing.”
For 29 years, VOICES for Alabama’s Children has coalesced statewide and local agencies and nonprofits to accomplish our mission and vision: “To speak for the well-being of Alabama’s children through research, public awareness, and advocacy” in order to ensure “All Alabama’s children are safe, healthy, educated, and economically secure so that they, their families, and our state can thrive.” VOICES annually publishes the Kids Count Data Book – the most trusted source of research on child well-being for all 67 counties in Alabama. For more than 25 years, the Data Book has served as both a benchmark and roadmap for how children are faring and is used to raise visibility of children’s issues, identify areas of need, set priorities in child well-being and inform decision-making at the state and local levels.
