(Montreat, NC) — Montreat Conference Center is pleased to introduce Diane Pennington, the conference center’s new Director of Development Operations. Professionally, Pennington brings a diversity of experience to the Montreat Conference Center Development office. Over the course of 15 years in corporate New York, she gained experience in management, operations, administration, and corporate communications and marketing. While in New York, she also spent 20 years in musical theatre, performing on Broadway, regionally, and abroad. With a degree in Psychology for Special Populations from City University of New York, she spent several years in the biotech field, working with people recovering from spinal cord injuries and other related disorders. Also an avid animal-lover and dog trainer, Pennington founded and directed a non-profit organization providing animal-assisted therapy programs to the New York metro area.
“Not only were we looking for someone able to manage a wide range of administrative responsibilities,” said John Richardson, Vice President of Development at Montreat Conference Center, “we also needed a caring person who could interact with the many volunteers and donors who come through the Development office door every day. We’re confident that Diane, with her vast experience, varied skills, and warm personality, will do well in both areas and be a valuable asset to our office and the entire conference center.”
Conference center president George Barber agreed, saying, “We are always happy to add a person like Diane to our team.”
When asked about her new position, Pennington said, “I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to serve at Montreat Conference Center. Every day, I meet wonderful new people and learn more about this beautiful place.”
Pennington comes here from New York, but was raised in Richmond, VA. Her decision to relocate reflects her desire to raise her 5-year-old daughter, Emilia Grace, back in the southern mountains of her own childhood. She is an active member at First Presbyterian Church in Asheville, NC, where she serves part-time as an assistant to the minister of music.
