In a heartfelt announcement to the Children of the Nations (COTN) family, co-founders Chris and Debbie Clark shared their retirement after three decades of Christ-centered leadership. This transition—effective July 1, 2025—was not made lightly but through careful and prayerful planning with the COTN board, ensuring a strong handoff for the organization’s future.
A Legacy of Stewardship and Faith
For 30 years, the Clarks have devoted their lives to serving vulnerable children and communities in Sierra Leone, Malawi, Uganda, the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Their leadership has been a living testament to faith, perseverance, and a deep trust in God’s perfect timing.
This transition comes after a particularly demanding year of international ministry, confirming to both the Clarks and the board that the time was right. COTN’s foundation is strong, its mission clear, and the next generation of leadership has been prepared by God to carry the work forward.
A Well-Planned Transition
Children of the Nations remains in excellent hands under the leadership of:
- Dr. Michael Jungkeit (Board Chair)
- Dr. Paul De Pree (COO and Acting CEO)
Both leaders embody COTN’s mission and values, bringing operational wisdom and deep spiritual commitment to their roles. Additionally, the Country Directors and national boards are thriving with increasing impact under the leadership of Mark Drennan, International Development VP.
A Call for Continued Prayers and Support
While the Clarks step back from day-to-day leadership, their hearts remain fully invested in COTN’s mission.
Chris Clark reflected on this milestone, saying:
“It has been a great pleasure to be a co-founder and CEO of this organization for the last 30 years. I greatly appreciate your partnership over the years. Please join us in prayer for this next season.”
They invite the COTN family to join them in praying for:
- Discernment as the Board seeks COTN’s next CEO.
- Wisdom for Dr. Jungkeit and Dr. De Pree as they guide the organization.
- Peace and confidence for the children, staff, and partners during this transition.
The Clarks expressed deep gratitude for COTN’s donors, supporters, and sponsors, affirming that every dollar given will continue to transform lives as intended. The stability of this transition ensures that contributions have a lasting impact for decades to come.
God’s Timing Is Perfect
As Chris and Debbie Clark embark on a new season in their lives, they do so with joy and confidence, knowing that COTN’s work was always God’s—and He isn’t finished yet. Their legacy is one of faithful stewardship, and their retirement marks the beginning of new opportunities of growth for the ministry.
In closing, they leave the COTN family with this Scripture:
“He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
—Ecclesiastes 3:11a (NIV)
Three decades of answering God’s call. Countless lives changed. A future brimming with hope. This is the Clarks’ legacy—and it’s only the beginning.