New additions to the Board of Directors at CLC

We are thrilled to announce the latest additions to our Board of Directors at Children's Law Center of Central North Carolina. These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience, passion, and expertise that will undoubtedly contribute to our mission of advocating for the rights and well-being of children in our community.

Please join us in welcoming our three new board members:

Jennifer Barksdale –

Chief Finance and Operations Manager, Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation

Jennifer has institutional knowledge of the organization, a passion for child advocacy, and a commitment to our community. In her own words, “The Children’s Law Center’s work advocating for children in Forsyth and Guilford counties is critical.  I had the privilege of working with the Children’s Law Center in its early days assisting with accounting and financial reporting, and I was able to see the dedication of its staff firsthand. The organization has grown over the years and has expanded its services.  I continue to see the same steadfast commitment to serving our most vulnerable children, and I am honored to support the Children’s Law Center as a board member.”

John Blalock -

Vice President, Enterprise Emergency Medicine,

Atrium Health

John brings a fresh perspective to CLC’s Board of Directors along with his commitment to the health of our community and the needs of our children. Moreover, John is a champion of our service population. His dedication to our work is expressed in his own words, “The Children’s Law Center of Central North Carolina is such a vital community asset. What most resonates with me is the Center’s advocacy for one of our most vulnerable populations in a time of need in order to forge a future that is healthy and successful. I’m honored to be appointed to the Children’s Law Center Board of Directors and support this tremendous organization.”

Whitney Pakalka – Senior Associate, Kilpatrick

Whitney has been a supporter of CLC for many years. She first engaged with CLC as a pro bono attorney in a high conflict custody case in 2019 for our Custody Advocacy Program. The experience made an impression on her, as she shares “I was able to see first-hand how important it is that children in these situations have someone whose sole job is to advocate for what is in their best interests.  Because of that experience, I am delighted to be joining the CLC board to help this organization carry on its critical work serving children in our community.” Whitney continues a strong tradition of Kilpatrick’s commitment in our community as child advocates and leaders at Children’s Law Center.

Marcus Shields – Of Counsel, Ellis & Winters LLP

Marcus worked hand-in-hand with CLC during his time on the Bench as a District Court Judge in Guilford County. He brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the judicial system, the value of our work and the needs in Guilford County. In his own words, “As a former judge I saw firsthand the impact and important difference CLC made in the families that found themselves in our courtrooms in Guilford County. I believe the work is vital to protect the voices and best interests of children.  I am looking forward to building onto CLC’s momentum that will allow the organization to help more families and assist in the important work of being the voice of children who are our most vulnerable and precious gifts.”

We are confident that their collective expertise will guide us in achieving our goals and advancing our mission to ensure every child's voice is heard and rights are protected.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to make a lasting difference in the lives of the children we serve.