New president to take over St. Jude’s Ranch

Wednesday, Sept. 22, 1999 | 9:41 a.m.

After conducting a national search to find a replacement for the Rev. Herbert Ward, St. Jude's Ranch for Children has announced its new president and chief executive officer.

The Rev. William C. Cantrell Jr., an Episcopal priest and former command chaplain in the Navy, will take the reins in mid-October. Cantrell will handle daily operations at St. Jude's and supervise the children.

St. Jude's will welcome Cantrell at its 32nd annual open house at 9 a.m. Oct. 24.

Located on U.S. 93 overlooking Lake Mead, the nonprofit charity in Boulder City assists homeless or abused children and serves up to 54 children in its eight cottages.

Ward, also an Episcopal priest, who has been CEO and president of the ranch for 30 years, will become president of the recently formed St. Jude's Foundation.

"With 30 years at the helm, it is time for me to turn the steering wheel over to younger hands," Ward said.

The 42-year-old Cantrell has worked with diverse Christian programs and affiliations around the world.

He has a business administration degree in marketing from Texas A&M University and a masters in divinity from Nashotah House Theological Seminary.

He served aboard the USS Hue City during the Gulf War and is currently a chaplain in the Naval Reserves. Cantrell helped his command win a community service award two years in a row for its work with hospitals, women's shelters, drug rehabilitation centers, orphanages and schools throughout the world.

He has received the Navy and Marine Commendation medal and a citation for Military Outstanding Volunteer Service.