Arkansas Principal 

Mischa Martin

Mischa Martin is a lifelong Arkansan from Sherwood and a seasoned leader in government relations, public policy, and child and family services. She brings extensive experience navigating state government, working with legislators, and partnering with providers and businesses across Arkansas to drive meaningful change.

An attorney with a Master’s in Public Administration, Mischa began her career in 2008 with the Arkansas Department of Human Services, handling child abuse and neglect cases. She went on to serve as Director of the Division of Children and Family Services and was later appointed by Governor Sarah Sanders as Deputy Secretary of Youth and Families, where she oversaw statewide programs including child welfare, childcare, and juvenile justice, as well as prevention services, foster care, and adoption.

She worked closely with organizations and providers to lead major reforms that reduced the number of children in foster care, improved permanency outcomes, expanded prevention services, and helped Arkansas achieve record-setting increases in adoptions.

After her time in state government, Mischa founded SHIFT Consulting, where she began advising state leaders, providers, and businesses across the country on public policy, system reform, and government strategy. She later joined Casey Family Programs, where she continued working with numerous states to shape and reform policy and improve child welfare systems.

Known as a strong and effective advocate, Mischa has significant experience in government relations, legislative strategy, and cross-sector collaboration. She is passionate about helping businesses and providers navigate complex systems, build partnerships, and achieve results that strengthen communities.


Mischa lives in Sherwood with her husband of 22 years, Blake, their 14-year-old twin boys, and their Aussiedoodle, Leo. She enjoys mountain biking and exploring Arkansas’s outdoors with her family.