Dr. Renee McQueen Lawson

Executive Vice President of Head Start

Dr. Renee McQueen Lawson serves as Executive Vice President of Head Start for Episcopal Children’s Services (ECS), providing strategic leadership for Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families across Florida and Georgia.

With more than two decades of executive leadership experience in early childhood education, behavioral health, and human services, Dr. Lawson oversees program operations, quality improvement, compliance, school readiness initiatives, and organizational growth. She is committed to ensuring that children receive high-quality early learning experiences while empowering families with the resources and support needed to thrive.

Prior to joining ECS, Dr. Lawson held senior leadership roles in nonprofit and behavioral health organizations, leading complex programs focused on education, mental health, family well-being, and community impact. Her leadership approach emphasizes innovation, collaboration, data-informed decision-making, and continuous improvement.

A licensed mental health counselor, licensed marriage and family therapist, and certified addictions professional, Dr. Lawson holds a Doctor of Education in Counseling Psychology and an Executive MBA. She is passionate about creating opportunities that strengthen children, families, and communities and believes that every child deserves a strong foundation for lifelong success.