A Legacy of Hope: HopeTree Academy Director Retires After Five Years of Service

Home > A Legacy of Hope: HopeTree Academy Director Retires After Five Years of Service

*Dr. Laurie McCracken, Director of Education at HopeTree Academ*y from 2021-2026

SALEM, VA – July 31, 2026

When Dr. Laurie McCracken joined HopeTree Academy five years ago, she wasn’t simply accepting a new role. She was answering a calling that aligned with both her professional experience and her personal values. After serving as Director of Education since 2021, Dr. McCracken will retire on July 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy centered on believing in students, supporting staff, and helping young people discover their potential.

For Dr. McCracken, joining HopeTree Academy was more than a professional opportunity. It was an opportunity to serve in an organization whose mission aligned closely with her passion for helping others.

“The mission of HopeTree was what initially inspired me to join the organization,” Dr. McCracken shared. “It was a privilege to be part of an organization that makes such a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families.”

As a former special education coordinator and public school administrator, she was already familiar with HopeTree Academy’s work before joining the team. That experience gave her confidence in the Academy’s commitment to creating an environment where students could build confidence, develop self-regulation skills, and succeed academically.

Serving with Purpose

When reflecting on her time at HopeTree Academy, Dr. McCraken says the accomplishments that mean the most are not awards or initiatives, but the moments when students overcome challenges and discover what they are capable of achieving.

“One of the most meaningful experiences is watching a student walk across the graduation stage when many people, and sometimes even educators, believed that graduation would never be possible,” she shared.

Seeing students build confidence, overcome obstacles, and achieve goals they once thought were out of reach has been one of the greatest rewards of her career.

“I have been privileged to work with students who demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination,” she said. “Being a small part of their journey and helping create opportunities for their success has been the greatest accomplishment of all.”

“Few people embody the calling of an educator quite like Dr. McCracken,” said Jon Morris, President and Chief Executive Officer at HopeTree Family Services. “Her lifelong commitment and steadfast devotion to the success of every student has strengthened HopeTree Academy in countless ways.”

While students have always been at the center of Dr. McCracken’s work, she says one of the most rewarding parts of her role has been the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across HopeTree.

As a member of the CORE and SOAR leadership teams, she witnessed firsthand the dedication and compassion of employees throughout the organization who work each day to bring hope, healing, and opportunity to those they serve.

“The relationships I have built, the students whose lives I have been privileged to impact, and the colleagues who have become friends are blessings that I will always cherish,” Dr. McCracken shared.

Carrying the Mission Forward

As Dr. McCracken begins retirement, she hopes the next generation of educators remembers the importance of believing in their students and remaining committed to their purpose.

“The field of education can be challenging, and there will be days when the work feels difficult,” Dr. McCracken shared. “But every day, educators have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of students, even when that impact is not immediately visible.”

Her advice is simple: continue believing in students, celebrate small victories, and remember that the influence educators have may last far beyond the classroom.

“Never underestimate the difference you can make,” she said. “Continue to believe in your students, especially when they struggle to believe in themselves.”

Looking back on her time at HopeTree, Dr. McCracken says she is grateful for the opportunity to serve students, families, and staff through an organization whose mission reflects her own values

“I am truly grateful that the Lord led me to HopeTree Academy and entrusted me with the privilege of serving its students, families, and staff,” she shared. “As I enter retirement, I leave with a heart full of gratitude for the experiences, memories, and opportunities that HopeTree has provided. I am proud to have been part of an organization that makes such a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”

“We are deeply grateful for her leadership, her expertise, and her enduring impact on so many students, families, and staff,” Morris said. ” While her retirement marks the end of an extraordinary career, the lives she has touched and the foundation she has built will continue to benefit HopeTree Academy for years to come.”

While Dr. McCracken is beginning her retirement, she has graciously agreed to continue serving HopeTree Academy in a consultant role during the transition to new leadership. We are grateful for her leadership, compassion, and commitment to helping students discover hope and reach their potential. We wish her continued joy and blessings in this next chapter.

Dr. Laurie McCracken celebrates her retirement with fellow HopeTree team members on Thursday, July 30, 2026

An Evening of Inspiration and Entertainment at HopeTree’s HopeGrows Fundraiser

Home > An Evening of Inspiration and Entertainment at HopeTree’s HopeGrows Fundraiser

SALEM, Va. (August 27, 2025) – HopeTree Family Services, a leader in mental and behavioral health services, is delighted to announce its highly anticipated annual fundraising event, HopeGrows, taking place on Friday, September 12 at the Jefferson Center’s Fitzpatrick Hall in Roanoke. This premier event will bring together philanthropists, community leaders, and compassionate individuals who share a common goal of elevating HopeTree’s programs while making a positive impact on those they serve.

Date: Friday, September 12

Time: VIP Reception – 5:30 PM | General Admission – 6:30 PM

Venue: Jefferson Center – Fitzpatrick Hall, 541 Luck Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016

Guests attending HopeGrows can look forward to an enchanting night of unforgettable experiences. The event will feature:

Master of Ceremonies Jenna Zibton: WSLS 10 news anchor Jenna Zibton will serve as the evening’s master of ceremonies. Jenna has been pivotal for WSLS 10’s ’30 Days of Hope’ program that brings awareness to the successes and challenges of foster care and adoption. Every November since 2017, Jenna has featured children who can be adopted across Virginia, telling their stories along with those of families touched by the foster care system.

Keynote Speaker Cody Clark: is a Louisville‑based professional magician and autism self‑advocate whose performances seamlessly blend mesmerizing magic with relatable storytelling and humor. Diagnosed with autism at just 15 months, he defied early expectations—being told he might never walk, talk, or hold a job—and grew into a remarkable performer and advocate. Inspired at age 11 by his experience on stage at a magic show, Cody pursued the craft wholeheartedly. He honed his skills at the prestigious Jeff McBride Magic & Mystery School in Las Vegas and studied marketing and theatre arts at the University of Louisville—an education that laid the foundation for his unique style of performance.

Cody invites audiences into his world—using magic, comedy, classic country music, and personal narrative to share what life is like living with autism. His goal is to shift perceptions: to show that neurodiversity isn’t a limitation, but a different perspective that enriches us all. He has received numerous accolades, including sharing the stage with magic legend Lance Burton, earning the Society of American Magicians “Rising Star of Magic” award, and being named a Kentucky Colonel by Governor Andy Beshear in honor of his advocacy work.

Silent Auction: Bid on exclusive items and experiences generously donated by our partners and sponsors. Every contribution made through the auctions will directly benefit HopeTree’s programs.

We are grateful to our event sponsors, whose unwavering support has made HopeGrows possible. Their commitment to HopeTree’s mission and dedication to transforming lives demonstrates the power of collaboration in effecting real change. Individuals and organizations interested in attending HopeGrows are invited to visit our website at hopetreefs.org/hopegrows for more information and ticket purchases. Limited sponsorship opportunities are also available for those who wish to contribute to the success of this significant event.

About HopeTree Family Services

HopeTree Family Services, the premier faith-related human services organization in Virginia, offers a wide range of ministries for at-risk children and youth and their families across the state. Programs include Therapeutic Foster Care, Therapeutic Group Homes, Developmental Disabilities Ministry, HopeTree Academy, Family Centered Treatment, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and Outpatient Therapy. Visit www.hopetreefs.org for more information.

Trust, Connection, & Transformation

Home > Trust, Connection, & Transformation

TBRI® in Action at HopeTree Academy

Christopher Morris, an Education Supervisor at HopeTree Academy, has spent his career building relationships with students. His recent connection with a young boy from HopeTree’s residential program underscores how personal care and intentionality can change lives. With the support of Dr. Challen Mabry, Chief Clinical Officer of HopeTree Family Services, Morris exemplifies the profound impact of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) in fostering connections and empowering youth.

A Troubled Start

The student, a 12-year-old with a history of foster care disruption, struggled with emotional regulation and social connection. After a challenging weekend, he refused to attend school. Despite efforts from clinicians, he remained withdrawn, raising concerns about his mental health and well-being.

Dr. Mabry, familiar with the boy’s positive rapport with Morris, reached out for assistance. Morris didn’t hesitate. “I walked over to the cottage, sat beside him on the sofa, and started a conversation,” Morris recalls. Their shared background—both having roots in the same community—sparked a bond. “We talked about where we grew up, and his face lit up. That connection deepened our relationship.”

What is TBRI®?

TBRI® is an attachment-based, trauma-informed intervention that is designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children. TBRI® uses Empowering Principles to address physical needs, Connecting Principles for attachment needs, and Correcting Principles to disarm fear-based behaviors. While the intervention is based on years of attachment, sensory processing, and neuroscience research, the heartbeat of TBRI® is connection.

TBRI® is designed to meet the complex needs of children who have experienced adversity, early harm, toxic stress, and/or trauma. Because of their histories, it is often difficult for these children to trust the loving adults in their lives, which often results in perplexing behaviors. TBRI® offers practical tools for parents, caregivers, teachers, or anyone who works with children, to see the “whole child” in their care and help that child reach his highest potential.

The Power of Showing Up

Instead of pressuring the boy, Morris offered understanding and support. He encouraged the child to return to school, framing it as a choice: “If you won’t do it for yourself, do it for me.” The approach worked. The next day, the boy came to school, smiling and carrying an unopened Dr Pepper, a meaningful gesture for someone with few personal possessions.

“He shared the soda with me, which meant a lot,” Morris says. “It wasn’t just a drink—it was a symbol of trust and gratitude.” Dr. Mabry highlights the importance of these small yet transformative moments. “Chris modeled connection over compliance, showing the student that he mattered. That’s what TBRI is all about—building trust and meeting kids where they are.”

Beyond Academics

Since that day, the student has thrived, attending school consistently and forming healthier relationships. Morris continues to provide individualized support, greeting students by name and prioritizing their needs. “No matter what I’m doing, it’s not as important as what a student needs at that moment,” he says.

Dr. Mabry emphasizes that creating connections doesn’t require a professional degree. “Chris’s willingness to sit with the boy, listen, and share a moment made all the difference. It’s a reminder that anyone can play a role in transforming lives.”

A Philosophy in Practice

Morris’s dedication stems from his belief in the transformative power of relationships. After over three decades in public education, he has embraced TBRI as a guiding framework. “I’ve learned that connection is key,” he says. “If students know you care, they’re more likely to respect boundaries and work through challenges.”

For Morris, this philosophy extends beyond his professional life. “The boy reminds me of my own son,” he shares. “That personal connection drives me to show up and support him, just as I would for my family.”

A Model for HopeTree

Morris’s actions serve as a powerful example for HopeTree Academy staff, who gather daily to reflect on TBRI® strategies and celebrate successes. “Chris’s involvement demonstrates the importance of modeling the behaviors we want to see,” says Dr. Mabry. “He’s not just an administrator—he’s in the trenches, making a real difference.”

Through the combined efforts of HopeTree Academy and HopeTree Family Services, students like this young boy are finding stability, connection, and a sense of hope. It’s a testament to the power of intentional relationships and the belief that every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported.

Read Caring Times – Winter 2024