Dr. Whitaker joined One More Child in 1999 as the Director of Campus Ministries and later served as the Central Florida Administrator and Vice President of Programs. She currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Emerging and Prevention Services and leads One More Child in developing new, innovative programming to further impact children and families through implementation and growth of childcare programs. Dr. Whitaker leads research and launch efforts to implement best practices, study child welfare trends and make recommendations for program adaptations (considering evolving public policies).  Prior to her work at One More Child, Dr. Whitaker worked at Peace River Center for 11 years serving as a therapist/coordinator for children and adolescents in the residential psychiatric services center. She has worked with children and families in crisis for over 30 years.

Dr. Whitaker has received a bachelor of science in social work from Florida Southern College, earned a Master of Arts in counseling education from the University of South Florida and holds a doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern University, majoring in organizational leadership with a minor in conflict resolution.

Dr. Whitaker has been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) since 1997 and is a Qualified Supervisor for counselors seeking licensure. She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and holds professional certification in Human Trafficking Prevention and Intervention from Florida State University.

Active in her church, Kathleen Baptist, Dr. Whitaker currently serves on the Personnel Committee, is a Care Group Leader, substitute Life Group teacher, and nursery worker.  Married to Gary Whitaker since 1986, they have a daughter, Tierney.

Dr. Whitaker is passionate about bringing creative, Christ-centered services to children and families in need and reaching the “least of these.”