Friends of Children’s Hospital is pleased to announce significant changes to its Board of Directors, including the appointment of a new Chairman, Chairman-Elect, and the addition of four new members. These changes mark an exciting chapter for the organization as it continues its mission of providing exceptional care and support for Mississippi’s children and families.
After an outstanding 14 years of service, John Scarbrough has stepped down from his role as a Board Member and completed his two-year term as the Board Chairman on June 6, 2023. Scarbrough’s dedication and invaluable contributions have played an instrumental role in the growth and success of Friends of Children’s Hospital. Under his leadership, the organization achieved numerous milestones that have significantly impacted their mission.
In recognition of Scarbrough’s service, the board of directors gifted him with the first Friends car tag to be issued. (The tag, which was issued to Dr. Owen “Bev” Evans, the founder of Friends, remained on Evans’ Jeep until it was sold earlier this year and gifted to the Friends office.) A bench in front of the children’s hospital also will be dedicated to Scarbrough, and a tree in the Rainbow Garden will be dedicated to John and Jeanne Scarbrough, in memory of their son Hudson Scarbrough.
Some notable achievements during Scarbrough’s tenure include the exponential growth of the Friends of Children’s Hospital car tag initiative, which generated revenue of over $5.2 million and sold more than 136,000 tags in the past 14 years. The Over the Edge event, which Scarbrough participated in all seven years, raised a remarkable $1.1 million from 2016 to 2023. Furthermore, the inaugural Clays for Kids clay shooting tournament generated over $70,000 in its first year.
Kristin Allen will take over as the new Chairman of the Board for the period of 2023 through 2025. Allen has been an invaluable asset to Friends of Children’s Hospital, serving in various leadership roles over her 14-year tenure. Her extensive experience and commitment make her a highly suitable candidate to lead the organization into the future. Additionally, Mary Clift Abdalla will serve as Chairman-Elect. Abdalla has been an active member of the Board for the past four years.
Friends of Children’s Hospital is equally thrilled to welcome four new Board members: Rebekah Gregory, Mark Hosemann, Judge Jennifer Nicaud, and Jia Scott. All four individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise in their respective fields, which will undoubtedly contribute to the organization’s continued success.
The organization would like to express its sincere gratitude to all Board members for their unwavering support, dedication, and tireless efforts in furthering the mission of Friends of Children’s Hospital. Their contributions to improving the lives of Mississippi’s children in need are truly commendable.
