Cindy Tucker is a passionate advocate for children and families with 28 years of experience in social work. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Mississippi State University and a Master of Business Administration from Lamar University, but what truly drives her is a deep belief in the power of compassion, dignity, and human connection. Cindy is proud to be part of the Sally Kate Winters Family Services family — a nonprofit dedicated to bringing hope and healing to youth across Mississippi who have faced some of life's hardest challenges. When she's not pouring her heart into her work, you'll likely find her spending time with her family, exploring a cozy coffee shop, working through a puzzle, laughing at a good comedy show, or just enjoying some self-care.

As Finance & Grants Manager, Carlos oversees the organization’s financial operations, grant management, budgeting, and reporting to help ensure programs continue serving youth and families effectively. He works closely with leadership to support funding opportunities, maintain financial accountability, and strengthen community impact initiatives. Carlos is passionate about helping organizations grow and create opportunities for youth development. In his free time, he enjoys coaching youth sports, spending time with family, going to church, serving others in the community, and supporting programs that make a positive impact.

As Office Assistant, Karen is the first face you’ll see when you walk in our office. She is responsible for donation correspondence, supply inventory, grant documentation, and maintain a welcoming atmosphere. She answers and transfers calls and keeps our office organized. Karen Graves has her associate’s in accounting from Southwest Community College, bachelor’s in communication from MSSTATE, and master’s degree in accounting from Christian Brothers University. In her free time, she loves to enjoy a Coca Cola and a sweet treat, spending time with her sisters traveling and exploring old and new. Karen really has a heart for the youth that come through our agency!

As Outreach Coordinator, Courtney is responsible for all fundraising and events, social media exposure, volunteer efforts, and community engagement. Courtney received her bachelor's degree in social work from Mississippi State University and her master's degree in social work from the University of North Alabama. Courtney is passionate about Sally Kate Winter's mission to empower children and families to seek and experience an improved quality of life. 

Cynthia has been at SKW since the doors opened in 1990, starting as a direct care staff member before transitioning into her current role as Case Manager in 1991. She oversees intake and discharge of residents, medical needs, school enrollment and collaborates with social workers and school officials. A graduate of Mississippi University for Women with a Bachelor of Science in Family and Human Development, Cynthia has always called West Point home. She is a wife and mother of three, who loves to take pictures and spend time vacationing with her family.

As Shelter Supervisor, Larina is responsible for the daily operations of the shelter. She has 35 years experience in working with children and 15 years of supervision. Her goal at Sally Kate Winters Family Services is to provide a loving and caring home away from home. She has studied at Mary Holmes Community College and East MS Community College. She is a mother of 2 and grandmother of 1. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with family, knitting, and crocheting. 

Kandice Trotter is a proud native of the Mississippi Delta and a proud alumna of Shaw High School. She earned her Associate of Arts degree from Coahoma Community College before going on to receive her Bachelor of Social Work from Mississippi Valley State University.

As a facilitator, Kandice oversees the clinical needs of youth residing in the shelter and assists with discharge planning and related documentation. She works closely with youth experiencing a variety of challenges, including those served through Safe Place, runaway and homeless youth programs, street outreach, and at-risk youth services. Kandice is passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and caring environment where young people feel heard, valued, and empowered.

Kandice has always enjoyed working with children and finds great purpose in being a source of encouragement and support for the youth she serves. Her dedication to helping children and families reflects her belief that every young person deserves compassion, understanding, and an opportunity to thrive.

Outside of work, Kandice enjoys spending time with her family, especially her nieces, who she proudly says are her world. She is also a proud fur mom to two dogs, three cats, and two turtles! In her free time, she enjoys shopping, bowling, decorating, and traveling.

And, of course, if you know Kandice, you already know she is a Dallas Cowboys fan! ⭐

As TLP Advisor, Genika engages with TLP youth by providing individual, family, and group therapy. She works with the youth daily by providing positive support, healthy coping skills, and an individualized treatment plan for each youth. She has an extensive background in utilizing different therapy models for the diverse population. She is a graduate of Mississippi State University with her degree in Educational Psychology and her Master’s in Counseling Psychology. Genika enjoys spending time with her family/friends, crafting home projects, and traveling.

As Transitional Living Program Life Skills Coach Kelly Michael, assist youth in program with community service, education completion, job search and independent living skills. Kelly attended Mississippi State University to obtain her bachelors in Social work and became licensed in 2025. During her free time she enjoys reading, going to the beach, and spending time with her family.

Neiko Judon-Pinson exemplifies the integration of clinical expertise and educational leadership through a diverse professional trajectory spanning over 12 years. Currently serving as Program Coordinator for Sally Kate Winters, Judon-Pinson brings a comprehensive skill set developed across multiple roles including school counselor, mental health therapist, behavior specialist, social worker, and vocational school counselor. This breadth of experience reflects a commitment to supporting individuals across various developmental stages and contexts, addressing both academic and socio-emotional needs. The foundation of this work rests on rigorous academic preparation from the University of Mississippi, including a bachelor's degree in social work, a master's degree in education, and an Education Specialist degree with an emphasis in Play Therapy—a specialized modality particularly effective for working with children and adolescents who may struggle to verbalize their experiences.

The professional credentials held by Judon-Pinson underscore a dedication to evidence-based practice and ethical service delivery. As a Licensed School Counselor, Licensed Vocational Counselor, and Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC), Judon-Pinson operates within established regulatory frameworks that ensure accountability and quality care. The pursuit of a doctoral degree in Psychology represents continued investment in advanced clinical knowledge and research competencies, positioning Judon-Pinson to contribute to both practice and scholarship in the field. This combination of extensive field experience, specialized training in therapeutic interventions, and ongoing doctoral study illustrates a career characterized by continuous professional development and a holistic approach to supporting mental health and educational outcomes across diverse populations.

As Children's Advocacy Center Coordinator, Felisia brought 27 years of mental health experience, to Sally Kate Winters Family Services, working with and advocating, for those in need. Her experience include working with at risk youth, foster care, transitional living, Intellectually Disabled/Developmentally Delayed adults, and adults in an acute care psychiatric facility. Throughout her career, Felisia served in various leadership roles. She serves on the Mississippi Department of Mental Health Place Board, where she is the current Vice-Chairman. Felisia is responsible for the oversight, of the Child Advocacy Center’s daily operations. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Mississippi University for Women and a Master’s degree, from Mississippi State University. Felisia is a native, to the West Point community. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 daughters.

As Forensic Interviewer, Tessa uses ChildFirst Forensic Interviewing Protocol to gather information from children, in response to allegations of maltreatment.  She graduated from Northern Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with the goal of working with children within the Criminal justice system. Before joining SKWFS, she worked with child services in Arizona as a Parent Aide helping parents reach their goals of reunification with their children. Tessa loves spending time and spoiling her nieces and nephews like aunts do. 

NaTaya is a passionate MDT Facilitator and Family Advocate dedicated to helping children and families thrive. A graduate of Mississippi University for Women with a Bachelor's degree in Family Studies, she has devoted her career to supporting families, building strong community partnerships, and advocating for positive outcomes for those in need.

Her experience working with Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services strengthened her commitment to serving families with compassion, understanding, and respect. She is also a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, where she continues her dedication to service and community involvement.

Believing that every family deserves support and every child deserves opportunity, she lives by the motto: "We can help tomorrow's future today."

LaWanda Jackson is a dedicated Victim’s Advocate and Forensic Interviewer with more than 24 years of experience working with children and families from diverse backgrounds across several states. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to serving children and families with compassion, understanding, and professionalism.

As a Victim Advocate, LaWanda provides advocacy services and support to children and families who have experienced abuse, helping them navigate the investigative process and connect with appropriate resources and services. As a Forensic Interviewer, she conducts developmentally appropriate, child-centered interviews with children who are victims or witnesses of abuse and other crimes. Her approach focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where children can share their experiences in a manner that is sensitive to their individual needs.

LaWanda is a graduate of Mississippi State University. Her extensive experience, dedication to advocacy, and passion for serving vulnerable children and families continue to guide her work. She is committed to ensuring that children are heard, supported, and treated with dignity throughout the process.

Outside of her professional work, LaWanda values spending quality time with her family. Family is an important part of her life and provides her with a sense of connection, joy, and balance.

Samatha Shelly is a compassionate and dedicated professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Mississippi State University. With nearly 10 years of experience working with at-risk families, she has built her career around supporting others, making a positive difference, and helping families navigate life’s challenges.

Outside of her professional life, Samatha treasures spending time with her family. Whether they’re traveling to new destinations, enjoying a family vacation, or simply spending the day shopping together, family is at the heart of what brings her the most joy. She values meaningful connections, creating lasting memories, and making the most of every moment with the people she loves.