News Release

WABASH — Josiah White’s has announced Matthew Purkey as its new president and chief executive officer. He replaces President and CEO Ron Evans, who will retire upon the transition after almost six years of service to the organization. Purkey will begin in his new role on Monday, Oct. 2.

Matthew Purkey

Josiah White’s board of trustees and succession planning committee have been preparing for the change in leadership upon the announcement of Evans’ retirement. After a national search, they appointed Purkey to fill the role.

“We are so excited to have Matthew Purkey and his wife, Amanda, officially join Josiah White’s team,” said Brandt Downing, chairman of Josiah White’s board of trustees. “It has been a pleasure for the trustees to work alongside Ron and Matthew throughout the transition period. Matthew has an incredible heart for our mission and is dedicated to helping children and families in crisis.”

Purkey has years of service experience from his time in the United States Marine Corps, leadership at multiple United Way organizations and, most recently, from a veterans service organization where he led 59 operations across 48 locations nationwide.

Purkey earned a bachelor’s degree in human services from Campbell University and a master’s degree in human services from Liberty University. He has earned professional certificates from Harvard Business School, Deloitte University and the Center for Creative Leadership. Purkey is a doctoral candidate in strategic leadership, a featured TedX speaker and has received multiple 40 Under 40 awards. In addition, Purkey has served on numerous volunteer boards, including the Fisher House and the Victory Project, and is a Team Rubicon Grey Shirt.

When asked what excites him most about taking on the president and CEO role at Josiah White’s, Purkey said, “I am nothing more than a product of the redeeming love and power of God. Now, I have the honor of serving on an established and accomplished team that extends that same opportunity to others.”

Matthew and his wife, Amanda, have three children, Micah, Ezekiel and Gabriel.

Josiah White’s is a Christ-centered organization committed to enriching the lives of children and families through emotional healing, personal development and spiritual growth. It has six offices statewide, with its main location in Wabash.