Ellen Knapp

Ellen Knapp, executive director of the EPU Children’s Center in Fresno, has announced her retirement effective January 2018.

Knapp joined the agency in 2015, replacing founder Marion Karian, who served the nonprofit supporting children and families facing extraordinary medical, development and parenting challenges for 38 years.

Knapp retires after a long career, first as CEO of American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter and then as an executive for Gottschalks department stores.

“Ellen has been a tremendous leader for our agency, and we are grateful for her unwavering commitment and many contributions to EPU’s success,” said Trisha Cooper, president of the EPU board of directors, in a statement. “We look forward to finding the right person to lead this agency to its continued success while upholding our mission, vision and values and utmost dedication to the children and families of the Central Valley.”

The EPU board has begun a search for Knapp’s replacement. Interested candidates may apply online through Sierra HR Partners.

“It’s been an honor to serve as the Executive Director of the EPU Children’s Center,” Knapp said in a statement. “This agency’s staff is wholly dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in the Central Valley, and I couldn’t be more proud to be part of EPU’s 41 year history.”