I am pleased to share that I officially began my role as Chief Executive Officer of York Region Children’s Aid Society on March 16, 2026. It is an honour to join this Agency and to work alongside our dedicated staff, caregivers, volunteers, and community in support of children, youth, and families across York Region.
I would like to sincerely thank Laura Davidson for her leadership and commitment as Acting CEO over the past year. Her steady guidance during this important transition has been invaluable, and I am grateful for the strong foundation she has helped to establish. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Kim Sylvester for her leadership and support in her role as an Acting Director of Service, as well as to Alexandra Perley for her contributions as an Acting Manager of Service. Their commitment and leadership have been invaluable in supporting the Agency throughout this period.
I bring more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in Ontario’s child welfare sector, having most recently served as Executive Director of Child and Family Services of Grand Erie. My career has also included senior roles with the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies and the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. I hold a Bachelor of Science from McMaster University and have completed advanced leadership programs at Ivey, Schulich, and the Smith School of Business, focused on leadership in the not‑for‑profit sector.
As I begin this role, my priority is to listen and learn with aims to better understand the needs of children, youth, and families in York Region and to build strong, trusted relationships with the diverse communities we serve, particularly those who are over‑represented in the child welfare system. Through collaboration and openness, we will continue to strengthen equitable and accessible supports that promote the wellbeing of children, youth, and families across our region.
I look forward to working together as we move forward.
Sally Johnson
Chief Executive Officer
York Region Children’s Aid Society
