90 to 180 days: New interim CEO set for Union Gospel Mission
Mitchell Ellis, a former Fort Worth detective and hotel owner, takes the helm of the homelessness nonprofit following a leadership transition.
By Giulia Marshall ·
Mitchell Ellis begins a new chapter at Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County with a defined, temporary mission. The 38-year-old former police officer and entrepreneur was named interim chief executive on Nov. 2. His tenure is expected to last between 90 and 180 days while the organization searches for a permanent leader.
Ellis, who joined the board in 2024, previously led security initiatives for the faith-based nonprofit. The mission provides housing and services for homeless residents in Tarrant County. The appointment follows a period of leadership flux that began in September when former CEO Charles M. Wolford II mutually parted ways with the organization.
Wolford had served as CEO since 2024, a period that followed Don Shisler stepping into a two-year CEO emeritus role. The board could not reach Wolford for comment before publication. Ellis described his new position as a chance to provide short-term stability to the organization.
Caroline Samis, the board chair, called the board's support for Ellis unanimous. She noted his background as a business owner and law enforcement officer provides the perspective needed during the transition. Samis stated the board is grateful for his willingness to step in and serve alongside them.
Ellis spent 13 years with the Fort Worth Police Department. His career included work as a patrol officer in a tactical unit and four years as a detective in the Crimes Against Children Unit. During that time, he collaborated with the Alliance for Children of Tarrant County, the District Attorney’s office, and Cook Children’s Hospital.
After leaving law enforcement, Ellis and his wife entered the hospitality industry. They initially worked with Airbnb before founding La Palmilla Texas Hotel, a boutique resort and wedding venue in Glen Rose. He also held executive leadership roles at two pipeline services companies.
Ellis is a member of Paradox Church in downtown Fort Worth. He said he hopes to see his church and the mission work together in the future. He described the mission as a lighthouse for people facing the hardest times in their lives.
