Local nonprofit Family & Children's Service has named Michael McSurdy as its executive director.

McSurdy is the former vice president of programs at Nashville's Oasis Center. He brings more than 20 years of experience — including three in clinical practice — to F&CS.

The University of the South graduate began his career as a child and family therapist before becoming the University of Tennessee College of Social Work's foster care program director and then director of foster care services for the Tennessee Department of Children's Services. While at the Oasis Center, McSurdy earned a master's degree in business administration from Vanderbilt University.

"Michael's depth of experience, leadership skills and sincere passion for helping others make him an ideal match for Family & Children's service," said Sarah Ann Ezell, president of the organizatoin's executive committee. "During this time, the need for our services continues to climb. Michael will be a driving force enabling us to support the countless individuals and families in our community who are struggling for family preservation."

F&CS provides services such as crisis intervention counseling, mental health trauma intervention and school-based services to help families, children and individuals achieve self-sufficiency, family preservation and emotional well-being.