Williamson County CASA
Williamson County CASA (WCCASA) has announced the hire of Marianne Schroer as its new executive director, beginning September 3.
With more than 30 years of experience as a licensed psychological examiner, Schroer has an extensive background in non-profit work. Most recently, she coordinated efforts at 21st Drug Court, a local organization that works to provide treatment alternatives for non-violent offenders with drug or alcohol addictions in four counties.
Over the last 20 years, WCCASA has advocated for abused and neglected children in the court system. Through strong leadership and a committed volunteer force, the non-profit has helped thousands of young people find safe and permanent homes—and board members say that their recent selection will better propel the CASA mission further into the fabric of Williamson County.
“Marianne possesses a unique set of skills that will only enhance this challenging and critical role. With a background in both the non-profit and counseling sectors, the board believes that she is in the position to quickly make a deep imprint on the community we serve,” said Alex Marks, WCCASA board president and senior vice president of Tower Investments. “We are looking forward to seeing the ripple effects of her work.”
In its last fiscal year alone, WCCASA served more than 300 Williamson County children. As executive director, Schroer will be responsible for continuing to drive the success of the non-profit by providing clear direction for the organization’s forward-looking objectives and strategic goals.
“As advocates for our children, CASA makes such a significant contribution to our community and I am excited to be a part of such a worthwhile organization,” Schroer said.
Schroer has an undergraduate degree in social work and a Master of Arts degree in counseling psychology, and has wielded her skill set in her various leadership roles. A 28-year resident of Williamson County, her involvement has spanned the professional, service and religious spectrums and demonstrated strong community engagement.
Currently, she serves as President of the Battle of Franklin Trust and was past president of the Carnton Association. She is also on the board of Franklin’s Charge and the advisory board of Project Transformation. She has also invested her time in the Animal Control Task Force, where she served as a committee member; the Friends of Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, as its fundraising chairman; and is a graduate of Leadership Franklin.
Her husband, John Schroer, is the former mayor of Franklin and currently serves as the state’s Commissioner of Transportation.
In 2012, the WCCASA restructured its internal affairs to include the implementation of co-directors. After a year-long trial run, the non-profit is returning to the program’s more traditional hierarchy.
Danielle McMorran, who joined the WCCASA staff in May 2012, will continue to serve as the Director of Development and Public Relations. In her role, McMorran molds the public face of the program and helps raise community awareness, as well as funds.
Audrey Freshwater, Advocate Supervisor, rounds out the WCCASA staff. Her position allows the registered therapist to have a direct relationship with advocates and their work in court.
For more information about the CASA mission, or to learn how to volunteer, go to www.williamsoncountycasa.org.
More About Williamson County CASA
Williamson County CASA is an organization that advocates for the best interests of children in the judicial system, and works with volunteers to provide a permanent home for each one. The non-profit independently trains its volunteer members to investigate each situation, and report findings to the court.
