Cindy is a national trainer with Centene’s Child Welfare Education and Training team. She began working for Centene in 2011, serving as the first Foster Care Liaison, collaborating and building relationships with providers, caregivers, and state and community agencies. She has over 25 years of experience working with children, families and child welfare systems. She began her career working in partnership with child protective services as a Family Preservation and Reunification worker. Over the years, she has served children and families in a variety of settings including, in-home, residential and in-patient settings. Her experience also includes being a sign language interpreter and working with deaf and hard of hearing students.

Cindy obtained her Bachelor’s degrees from Cumberland College and Eastern Kentucky University. She also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Eastern Kentucky University. Her greatest passion is advocating for those who may not have a voice.

Gary Pate is a licensed clinical social worker employed by Centene Advanced Behavioral Health as a child welfare trainer. In this capacity, he provides training relevant to youth, caregivers, providers, and other stakeholders in the child welfare system. He has taught courses in high school, undergraduate, and graduate settings and has practiced social work for 30 years.