We are especially grateful for the service and leadership of Washburn’s CEO Craig Warren.
Craig’s military experience started to take shape in ROTC while an undergraduate at The Johns Hopkins University.
While speaking at a recent Good Leadership Breakfast, Craig reflected on his military service and how it shaped his career and leadership. Here are some highlights:
“I was drawn to the Army in part because as a Black youth I didn’t perceive that there were a lot of opportunities for African Americans. My two grandfathers served in World War II – one in the Merchant Marines and the other in the US Army.
“So, in the military and the army, I saw Black people at the most senior levels of leadership — that wasn’t reflected in the rest of society,” says Craig. “I am proud to be an American; something about defending the ideals appealed to me. Sure, we have rough edges and all that, but this is the country I was born into and where I want to stay. Every day that experience impacts me and my leadership,” he says. “I’m so grateful.”
In recognition of the impact his service has had Craig (he/him/his) is honored as one of the Twin Cities Business Notable Military Veterans for 2024. Craig’s experience as a United States Army Veteran and his achievement as a proven executive have had a stabilizing and nurturing impact on the families, children and mission here at Washburn Center.
Those who work alongside Craig talk about his laser focus on Washburn Center’s mission as well as how he is an innovator, leads with determination, integrity and accountability.
Since becoming CEO at Washburn Center for Children, Craig Warren exemplifies excellence in his strategic, inclusive, and purpose-filled approach to leading the mission of transformative children’s mental health care.
Under Craig’s leadership, Washburn has sharply increased the number of families served by focusing on organizational culture, employee wellness, inclusivity, and accountability.
Craig stepped in as CEO in 2022 after joining Washburn in 2020 as Chief Administrative Officer. He brought his lived experience and professional competence from more than 25 years of leadership in the public, private and non-profit sectors including his service on active duty as an Armor officer in the United States Army. Craig is also the first Black CEO in the agency’s history.
As a CEO, Craig’s vision, strong intellect, high moral character and strategic decision making have had a stabilizing and nurturing impact on Washburn Center. As a Veteran, Craig leads by example, blending the U.S. Army’s values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage with Washburn Center’s values of compassion, building multicultural community, growth and resilience.
Craig has been a tireless advocate for increasing awareness of children’s mental health through speaking engagements with legislators, media, donors, corporate sponsors and community partners. His work speaking on panels and as a keynote speaker places the families served by Washburn Center front and center as our community navigates a historic mental health crisis.
Click here to hear Craig speak during the October Good Leadership Breakfast.