Staff Leadership

President & Chief Executive Officer

Mike Duggar has served as President and Chief Executive Officer for Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) since 2017. Under Mike’s leadership and vision, LFCS has expanded programming, services, and office locations throughout Missouri to reach more underserved children and families.

His strategic approach to operations has led to improved efficiency and resource allocation within LFCS, significantly reducing administrative costs while maintaining the quality of services provided.

Beyond service delivery, Mike fosters collaboration. He’s forged partnerships with schools, faith communities, and government agencies, solidifying LFCS’s leadership role in providing safety, stability, and well-being for children and families across Missouri.

Before joining LFCS, Mike led Methodists Children’s Homes of Mississippi and was an adjunct faculty member at Jackson State University. His experiences and academic background in community psychology (Penn State University) and criminal justice/law enforcement (University of Tennessee at Chattanooga) equip him with a unique understanding of human dynamics and systems, which is critical for navigating the complexities of social services.

Mike’s dedication to improving Missouri communities and his strategic vision have been the driving force in LFCS’s growth and success. He’s an active leader, driven by compassion and a commitment to building a brighter future for Missouri’s children and families.

Jeff Cook has served as the Chief Financial Officer at Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri (LFCS) since 2020. His leadership helps drive organizational growth and financial excellence.

During his tenure at LFCS, Jeff has led impactful initiatives that enhance the agency’s mission delivery and sustainability. Notably, he led the establishing a new office in Kansas City in 2024, significantly expanding LFCS’s reach and community impact. Jeff’s strategic financial acumen enabled the social service agency to secure a remarkable $4.2 million annual contract – an impressive 382% expansion over the previous contract.

Jeff’s commitment to innovation and accountability is evident through implementing new budgeting and online accounting systems, which have improved LFCS’s accuracy and financial planning. However, it is his pivotal role in navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic that truly showcases his leadership. Jeff’s efforts ensured LFCS’s financial resilience and uninterrupted service delivery, providing security in uncertain times.

Beyond his financial expertise, Jeff’s leadership extends to facilities and IT modernization across LFCS’s statewide offices. Jeff holds a bachelor of science in accounting from Southwest Baptist University and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Rayna Ewell is the Chief Administrative Officer for Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS). Since joining LFCS in 1997, Rayna has held various leadership roles, demonstrating her commitment to the organization and its mission. Currently, she leads the human resources strategy and oversees regional administrative functions.

As a strategic business partner to the executive team, Rayna provides expert guidance to drive the agency’s objectives. She is dedicated to creating a high-performance work environment that promotes service excellence and achieves critical business initiatives. Rayna’s innovative approach and strategic thinking have been instrumental in advancing LFCS’s goals and supporting its staff.

Rayna holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Missouri. She also possesses senior-level certifications from the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). Her extensive education and certifications underscore her expertise and dedication to human resources.

Passionate about helping others reach their fullest potential, Rayna is deeply committed to the well-being of her family and friends. Her leadership and compassion make her an invaluable asset to LFCS and the communities the social service agency serves.

Laura Kelly was named Chief Development Officer for Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) in 2024 after serving as Development Director since 2023. Her leadership in statewide fundraising activities and development initiatives has advanced LFCS’s mission with purpose and passion.

A results – oriented leader with strong integrity, Laura combines social work and business expertise at LFCS. Her Saint Louis University social work degree and successful career in sales and donor relations have prepared her to excel in the nonprofit sector. Passionate about serving children, Laura is eager to expand LFCS’s reach across Missouri.

Originally from St. Louis, Laura spent much of her adult life in Tampa, where she enhanced her skills in sales, project management, and event coordination. Notably, she managed the Florida Chamber of Commerce with great success. Returning to St. Louis in 2012, Laura became deeply involved in volunteering and school committees, reigniting her passion for the nonprofit sector.

Laura’s blend of social work expertise and entrepreneurial spirit drives her dedication to making a difference. Her strategic thinking, coupled with a heartfelt desire to help others, inspires those around her and contributes significantly to LFCS’s ongoing development and success.

Michelle Meier, the Chief Program Officer at Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS), is a seasoned professional with a deep commitment to the social service sector. Her passion, expertise, and regional understanding, honed over more than two decades, are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families across Missouri.

Michelle’s leadership journey at LFCS began as Senior Director of Family Services where she quickly progressed to Senior Director of Programs and then to Chief Performance Officer, where she demonstrated exceptional leadership and drove agency growth and innovation. Throughout her career, Michelle has harnessed her expertise in program development, agency and program strategy, quality improvement, and staff leadership development to lead impactful initiatives that have made a tangible difference in the lives of countless children and families throughout Missouri.

Michelle’s work is characterized by a unique blend of clinical experience and strategic thinking. As a licensed professional counselor, she brings a keen eye for strategic program development, ensuring that her initiatives are not only impactful but also sustainable and effective.

Michelle holds a Master’s of Education in Counseling from the University of Missouri – St. Louis, and a Bachelor’s of Education from the University of Missouri – Columbia. Beyond her professional achievements, Michelle is known for her genuine compassion and commitment to the underserved. Under Michelle’s leadership, LFCS continues its legacy of positive impact in Missouri. She is a leader who embodies the organization’s compassion, innovation, and service values.