After years of visionary leadership, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sarah Rosen Garrett will step down from her role as CEO in June.
Garrett will continue to actively serve the organization in a new capacity as founder and chief clinical advisor, ensuring her deep expertise, institutional and clinical knowledge, and unwavering commitment remain central to the Phoenix Center’s future.
She will also remain an active member of the Phoenix Center Board of Directors.
“Sarah’s leadership has shaped every aspect of The Phoenix Center,” said Board President Lindsay Plante. “Her compassion, vision, and relentless dedication have built an organization that has transformed countless lives. We are profoundly grateful that her voice and guidance will continue to help lead us forward.”
To ensure seamless continuity in leadership, the board is also pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Flanagan as the new CEO, effective June 1, 2026.
Flanagan joined The Phoenix Center in 2025 as chief operating offi cer (COO), where she played a key role in strengthening operations, leading staff, and deepening community relationships.
Over the past year, Flanagan has worked closely alongside Garrett, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the organization’s programs, vision, and impact.
“Mary is a proven and values-driven leader,” Garrett said. “Her experience across both nonprofit and corporate sectors positions her exceptionally well to guide the Phoenix Center into our next phase of growth.”
Flanagan brings a track record of operational excellence and strategic leadership to the organization. Her professional background, combined with her personal commitment to serving children and families, reflects the core values that define
the Phoenix Center’s
work.
“I am honored to step into this role and build on the extraordinary foundation Sarah has created,” said Flanagan.
“The Phoenix Center’s mission is deeply meaningful, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, board, and community to expand our impact.”
Plante emphasized that this transition re- flects both continuity and momentum, preserving the organization’s strong foundation while positioning it strategically for future growth. “Simply put, the Phoenix Center would not exist without Sarah,” she said. “Her legacy lives in every child and family we serve, and we are grateful she will continue to lead our clinical team in the next chapter. At the same time, we are con- fident in Mary's leader ship and excited for the future. Thanks to the vision and mission of the Phoenix Center, and our amazing supporters and volunteers, our community is truly being transformed one child and family at a time.”
With this transition, the Phoenix Center re- mains firmly grounded in its mission and energized for the future - guided by strong leadership, deep expertise, and an enduring commitment to the children and families it serves throughout the Hill Country. Visit www. phoenixtx.org.
hneditor@ texaslocalmedia. com
