United Services for Children, a St. Charles-based nonprofit, announced on Sept. 25 that its board of directors appointed Dr. Julie Turner, of Lindenwood University as the agency's new President and CEO, effective Nov. 1.
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United Services for Children, a St. Charles-based nonprofit, announced on Sept. 25 that its board of directors appointed Dr. Julie Turner, of Lindenwood University, as the agency’s new President and CEO, effective Nov. 1.
United Services for Children is a nonprofit organization that delivers therapy and early intervention to young children with developmental disabilities or delays, and provides support services for their families.
Dr. Turner will succeed Denise Liebel, who will help facilitate the transition process before retiring at the end of December.
“I’m truly honored and excited,” said Turner. “It’s a privilege to step into this position, following the remarkable leadership that has shaped this much beloved and deeply respected organization. I look forward to continuing the mission of supporting children and families in our region, building on the strong foundation and legacy that has been established.”
Turner joins United Services after serving 15 years as a professor and department chair of nonprofit administration at Lindenwood University’s Plaster College of Business and Entrepreneurship. She was also associate director of the Duree Center for Entrepreneurship and served as grants and research manager.
Beyond the university, Turner is the chair of the Community Council of St. Charles County, the former chair of Vision Leadership St. Charles and regional chair of Thrivent Financial, Heartland Region. She actively volunteers within educational, nonprofit and church settings.
United Services’ new CEO has 25 years of education and nonprofit leadership. She has worked as a K-12 teacher and administrator, a development and grant writing specialist and has held various key leadership roles within organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri, Children’s Advocacy Services of Greater St. Louis and the Today & Tomorrow Educational Foundation.
Turner has a doctorate degree in educational leadership from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, a master’s degree in adult and continuing education from Michigan State University and a bachelor’s degree in sociology, religion and education from Hope College.
The agency’s board of directors conducted a five month executive search process before selecting Turner.
“Julie’s experience and community presence fits well with the agency’s growth plans over the coming years,” said Board Chair Stacia Peterson. “Julie is engaging and a proven leader in the community, and we can’t wait to partner with her.”
Liebel joined United Services as President and CEO in 2011. She helped the agency adapt to evolving community needs, launching an outpatient therapy program, navigating through a changing education system and the COVID-19 pandemic and moving the organization in 2023 to a new, expanded headquarters.
“It has been a great honor to work alongside such a dedicated staff and board of directors for the last 13 years,” said Liebel. “Their achievements have allowed us to meet the community’s increasing need for services. I look forward to watching the agency continue to grow under Julie’s leadership.”
