Dr. Tracye Cutts Strichik has been named executive director of VOICES for Alabama’s Children, the nonprofit announced following a months-long search led by its board of directors.

A longtime advocate for education and child well-being, Strichik brings more than 25 years of experience in early childhood systems, public policy and statewide coalition-building. According to a news release, she will officially assume the role Aug. 1, guiding the organization’s mission to improve outcomes for children across Alabama.

Strichik follows outgoing Executive Director Rhonda Mann, who is retiring after nearly 24 years with VOICES. Mann, who previously led the organization’s public policy agenda and data initiatives, returned from retirement to assist during a recent leadership transition and will remain involved as Strichik steps into the role.

“We are grateful for Rhonda’s leadership throughout much of the organization’s history, particularly her guidance and wisdom during recent times of transition. While change is often difficult, we are confident that Tracye’s ambitious vision for the future and her passion for VOICES’ mission will continue to build on the organization’s success, leadership, and impact,” said Nicole Schroer, president of VOICES’ board of directors, in the release. “From the moment we sat down with Tracye, it was obvious she is the right person to lead VOICES into the future. She brings a wealth of legislative insight, impressive fundraising skills, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Alabama’s children. Tracye not only met our high expectations on paper; she surpassed them in person.”

Per the release, Strichik previously served as executive director of the Alabama Expanded Learning Alliance, deputy secretary at the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education and director of the Alabama Reading Initiative at the Alabama State Department of Education. A former classroom teacher, she is a published researcher and currently serves on the Autauga County school board.

“As a longtime admirer of VOICES’ commitment to data-driven advocacy, I am honored to help lead its next chapter,” Dr. Strichik said. “Alabama’s children deserve every opportunity to thrive, and I’m excited to continue building bridges between research, policy, and practice that support their well-being.”

In her new role, Strichik will oversee the development of VOICES’ 2026 legislative policy agenda, working closely with lawmakers, state agencies and community leaders to advance child-focused initiatives. She will also continue VOICES’ role as a trusted source of research and advocacy, including publication of the annual Alabama Kids Count Data Book. The report is widely regarded as the state’s most comprehensive resource on child well-being, providing in-depth data for each of Alabama’s 67 counties.

With Strichik at the helm, the organization plans to expand its impact by strengthening investments in early childhood development and continuing to push for policies that ensure more equitable outcomes for all children.

For more information, visit www.alavoices.org.