Family & Children's Center today announced a change in leadership. At the end of this year, John Burgess will complete 20 years of service as president and CEO for the center and be named president emeritus. The organization's Chief Program Officer Mike Boehm has been named as his successor.

Burgess has served as president and CEO of Family & Children's Center since 1992, guiding it through many stages of growth to become the comprehensive service provider it is today, said Rich Petro, chair of the center's board. "After 20 years in this role (and 34 in total with the center), John wants to experience other parts of life. We couldn't be more pleased he has agreed to continue with Family & Children's Center in this new role."

As president emeritus, Burgess will continue with Family & Children's Center on a part-time basis, focusing on external relations. "I love this organization-the people and the mission," said Burgess. "I've seen the way our programs transform lives throughout the region, and I'm excited to serve in this new role."

Boehm joined Family & Children's Center in 1996 as a program aide in the center's alternative education program. Since that time he has served in various capacities with many programs within the organization, assuming his current role as chief program officer in 2008. He also serves as chair of the Minnesota Council of Child Caring Agencies.

"Mike knows Family & Children's Center, and he knows the communities we serve. He has passion and commitment for the mission, and he has the skills and experience to lead the center as it continues building better tomorrows for children and families in the region," said Petro. He said Burgess and Boehm will work closely over the next seven months to effect a smooth transition.

Founded in 1881, Family & Children's Center is a regional, not-for-profit agency that has helped thousands of children, adults and families enjoy better tomorrows. The center provides a continuum of services designed to strengthen families and promote individual well-being, including child abuse/neglect prevention programs, alternative schools, community-based counseling, community support services for people with severe and persistent mental illness, residential treatment options and several outreach programs.

With headquarters in La Crosse, Wis., and Winona, Minn., the center serves people throughout western Wisconsin and southeastern Minnesota and has additional offices in Black River Falls, Wis., Holmen, Wis., Rochester, Minn., and Viroqua, Wis.