Cornerstone's Executive and Leadership Team

Eric Spofford, the Chief Executive Officer at Cornerstone's, directs the overarching strategic vision for trauma-informed care initiatives. Spofford manages the expansion of youth and family support services throughout the Kansas and Missouri regions. By aligning organizational resources with the mission of fostering safe communities, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all programs meet rigorous standards for family preservation and functional family therapy. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to secure long-term sustainability for the nonprofit. Eric Spofford drives the implementation of innovative care models that address the complex needs of children affected by trauma. Through the oversight of community-based programs, the Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on measurable outcomes in schools and homes. Spofford champions the integration of evidence-based practices to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations, ultimately strengthening the impact of the organization across the entire service area.

Denise Cross, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Cornerstone's, governs the daily operations and long-term growth of the organization. Cross oversees the delivery of foster care and adoption services, ensuring that every child receives high-quality, trauma-informed support. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Cross coordinates with external stakeholders to expand the reach of family preservation programs within the Kansas and Missouri markets. This position requires balancing complex service demands with the mission of creating lasting positive change. Denise Cross leads the executive team in refining operational workflows to maximize the effectiveness of community center interventions. By prioritizing the needs of families, the President & Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of excellence and compassion. Cross maintains a clear focus on the 150-year legacy of the organization, adapting traditional care methods to meet modern challenges. Through strategic leadership, Cross secures the resources necessary to sustain vital community support systems.

Jill Beck, the Chief Financial Officer at Cornerstone's, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the entire organization. Beck oversees the budgeting process for youth and family support services, ensuring that financial assets directly support trauma-informed care initiatives. As the Chief Financial Officer, Beck monitors revenue streams and grant funding to sustain operations across Kansas and Missouri. This leadership role involves rigorous financial planning to support the expansion of foster care and adoption programs. Jill Beck drives fiscal transparency and accountability, providing the Board with detailed reports on the economic impact of various community interventions. By optimizing the allocation of funds, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources reach the families and children who need them most. Beck collaborates with other executives to align financial strategies with the long-term mission of the organization, securing the stability required to continue providing essential services in homes, schools, and community centers.

Michael Vietti, the Chief of Staff at Cornerstone's, manages internal communications and coordinates cross-departmental projects to support the organizational mission. Vietti facilitates the execution of strategic initiatives by aligning the efforts of various leadership teams. As the Chief of Staff, Vietti optimizes the flow of information between the executive office and the broader staff, ensuring that trauma-informed care principles remain central to all operations. This role involves managing high-priority projects that impact service delivery in schools and community centers across the region. Michael Vietti drives efficiency by streamlining decision-making processes and fostering collaboration among department heads. By monitoring the progress of key programs, the Chief of Staff ensures that the organization remains responsive to the evolving needs of children and families. Vietti supports the executive leadership in maintaining focus on long-term goals, providing the necessary structure to translate vision into tangible community impact throughout Kansas and Missouri.

Sarah Scharinger, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) at Cornerstone's, directs the administrative infrastructure and human capital strategies that enable the delivery of trauma-informed care. Scharinger oversees the internal policies and compliance frameworks that govern the organization's work in schools and community centers. As the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Scharinger manages the operational systems that support staff development and service quality. This role involves implementing organizational standards that ensure consistent care delivery across the Kansas and Missouri regions. Sarah Scharinger drives the modernization of administrative processes to improve efficiency and support the mission of family preservation. By fostering a supportive work environment, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) ensures that the team remains equipped to handle the complexities of trauma-informed support. Scharinger collaborates with the executive leadership to align administrative functions with the broader strategic goals, ultimately strengthening the capacity of the organization to serve children and families effectively.